New Testament
Luke 7:31
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"So what should I compare the people of this generation to? What are they like?
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And the Lord said, Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they like?
What Luke 7:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is questioning the nature of the people in His generation. He is seeking to illustrate their behavior and attitudes through a comparison. The rhetorical question highlights a sense of frustration with how people respond to His message and the messages of others, like John the Baptist. The generation is depicted as being difficult to please, as they reject both the ascetic lifestyle of John and the more social approach of Jesus. This reflects a broader theme of how people often resist change and truth, preferring to cling to their own ways rather than embrace new ideas or revelations. Jesus uses this moment to challenge His listeners to reflect on their own attitudes and responses to His teachings, urging them to consider what they truly value and how they engage with the truth.
How to apply Luke 7:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own responses to truth and change. Are we open to new ideas, or do we resist them? It challenges us to reflect on our attitudes and to be willing to embrace growth and understanding, rather than clinging to comfort or tradition.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Baptist's story: John's Question from Prison (Luke 7:18–35)
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John the Baptist
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Luke 7:31
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 7:31 mean?
In Luke 7:31, Jesus questions the nature of the people in His generation, illustrating their behavior and attitudes. He highlights their difficulty in being pleased, as they reject both John the Baptist's ascetic lifestyle and His own social approach.
What is the meaning of 'this generation' in Luke 7:31?
In this verse, 'this generation' refers to the people living during Jesus' time who were resistant to change and truth. Jesus uses this phrase to express frustration with their inability to accept different messages from Him and John the Baptist.
How does Luke 7:31 relate to self-reflection?
This verse encourages self-reflection by prompting individuals to consider their responses to truth and change. It asks us to evaluate whether we are open to new ideas or resistant to them.
What themes are present in Luke 7:31?
Key themes in Luke 7:31 include generational attitudes, rejection of truth, and the challenge of self-reflection. The verse illustrates societal frustration and the need to engage with new ideas.
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