New Testament
Luke 8:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, someone informs Jesus that His mother and brothers are outside, wanting to see Him.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Someone told him, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you."
And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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