New Testament
Luke 9:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When the apostles returned, they told Jesus everything they had done. He took them and withdrew privately to a remote area near the town of Bethsaida.
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And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida.
What Luke 9:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the apostles return to Jesus after their mission, eager to share their experiences and the work they accomplished. Jesus, recognizing their need for rest and reflection, takes them away to a quiet place near Bethsaida. This moment highlights the importance of taking time to recharge and process experiences, especially after engaging in ministry or service. The apostles likely felt a mix of excitement and exhaustion, and Jesus' response shows his care for their well-being. By withdrawing to a remote area, they can discuss their experiences without distractions, allowing for deeper understanding and connection. This also emphasizes the value of solitude and reflection in our spiritual journeys, as it provides an opportunity to reconnect with God and gain clarity on our purpose and mission.
How to apply Luke 9:10 to your life
In our busy lives, it's essential to take time for rest and reflection. Like the apostles, we should seek moments of solitude to recharge and process our experiences. This practice can help us grow spiritually and maintain our well-being as we serve others.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Feeding the Five Thousand (Luke 9:10–17)
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Jesus

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Luke 9:10
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 9:10 mean?
Luke 9:10 describes the moment when the apostles return to Jesus after their mission. They share their experiences, and Jesus takes them to a quiet place near Bethsaida for rest and reflection.
What can we learn from Luke 9:10 about rest?
Luke 9:10 teaches us that taking time for rest is essential, especially after engaging in demanding activities. It highlights the value of stepping away from busyness to recharge and gain clarity.
What does 'withdrew privately' mean in Luke 9:10?
'Withdrew privately' indicates that Jesus sought a quiet place away from the crowds. This suggests the importance of solitude for personal reflection and deeper connection with God.
How does Luke 9:10 relate to ministry and service?
Luke 9:10 illustrates that after serving others, it's crucial to take time for oneself. This balance helps maintain spiritual health and effectiveness in ministry.
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