New Testament
Luke 8:40
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When Jesus returned to the other side, the crowd welcomed him eagerly because they had all been waiting for him.
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And it came to pass, that, when Jesus was returned, the people gladly received him: for they were all waiting for him.
What Luke 8:40 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Jesus returning to a place where he had previously ministered. The crowd is excited and eager to see him, indicating their anticipation and hope for his teachings and miracles. This eagerness reflects their recognition of Jesus as a significant figure who has the power to heal and transform lives. The people had been waiting for him, suggesting that they were not just casual followers but were genuinely invested in what he had to offer. This moment highlights the relationship between Jesus and the people, emphasizing their longing for spiritual guidance and physical healing. It also sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the following verses, where Jesus will demonstrate his authority and compassion. The crowd's welcome serves as a reminder of the impact Jesus had on those around him, drawing them in with his message of love and hope.
How to apply Luke 8:40 to your life
This verse encourages us to be eager and expectant in our relationship with Jesus. Just as the crowd waited for him, we should actively seek his presence in our lives, anticipating his guidance and support. Cultivating a heart of expectation can deepen our faith and connection with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jairus' Daughter and a Woman Healed (Luke 8:40–56)
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Jesus

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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Keep studying Luke 8:40
Related Bible verses
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 8:40 teach about waiting for Jesus?
Luke 8:40 illustrates the importance of anticipation in our relationship with Jesus. The crowd's eagerness to welcome him shows that they were not passive followers; they actively sought his presence and teachings. This teaches us that waiting for Jesus involves a heart posture of expectation and readiness to receive his guidance and blessings in our lives.
Why were the people so eager to see Jesus in Luke 8:40?
The people were eager to see Jesus because they recognized him as a healer and teacher who could transform their lives. Their anticipation reflects a deep longing for spiritual and physical healing, indicating that they had experienced or heard of his miracles and teachings before. This eagerness highlights the significant impact Jesus had on the community.
How can we apply the message of Luke 8:40 in our daily lives?
We can apply the message of Luke 8:40 by cultivating an attitude of eagerness and expectation in our spiritual lives. Just as the crowd waited for Jesus, we should actively seek his presence through prayer, worship, and studying the Bible. This anticipation can deepen our faith and help us recognize the ways Jesus is working in our lives.
What does this verse reveal about community and faith?
Luke 8:40 reveals that community plays a vital role in faith. The crowd's collective eagerness to welcome Jesus indicates a shared belief and hope among them. This sense of community can strengthen individual faith, as people come together to support one another in their spiritual journeys and to seek the transformative power of Jesus.
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