New Testament
Luke 8:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Someone told him, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you."
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And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee.
What Luke 8:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, someone informs Jesus that His mother and brothers are outside, wanting to see Him. This moment highlights the importance of family relationships, but it also sets the stage for Jesus to redefine what family means in the context of His ministry. Jesus often emphasized that spiritual ties can be more significant than biological ones. By acknowledging His earthly family, He also invites His followers to understand that those who hear and do God's word are part of His true family. This interaction illustrates the tension between earthly obligations and spiritual commitments, prompting us to consider our priorities in life. Jesus' response to this news will further clarify His mission and the nature of His community, which transcends traditional family boundaries. It encourages believers to see themselves as part of a larger spiritual family, united by faith and obedience to God.
How to apply Luke 8:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate our own priorities. While family is important, we should also recognize the significance of our spiritual family in Christ. Engaging with our faith community can strengthen our relationship with God and help us grow spiritually, reminding us that we are all part of a larger purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: Jesus' Mother and Brothers (Luke 8:19–21)
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Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
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Keep studying Luke 8:20
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Key themes
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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 8:20 mean?
Luke 8:20 conveys a moment when someone informs Jesus that His mother and brothers are outside wanting to see Him. This highlights the importance of family but also sets the stage for Jesus to redefine family in terms of spiritual relationships.
What is the significance of family in Luke 8:20?
In Luke 8:20, family is acknowledged, but Jesus uses this moment to illustrate that spiritual ties can be more important than biological ones. He emphasizes that those who follow God's word are part of His true family.
How does Luke 8:20 relate to priorities in life?
Luke 8:20 encourages readers to reflect on their priorities, suggesting that while earthly family is important, spiritual commitments and community in faith should also hold significant value.
What does Jesus teach about family in Luke 8:20?
In Luke 8:20, Jesus teaches that spiritual relationships can surpass biological ones. He invites His followers to see themselves as part of a larger spiritual family united by faith and obedience to God.
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