New Testament
Luke 9:38
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
A man in the crowd shouted, "Teacher, I'm begging you — please look at my son! He's my only child.
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And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine only child.
What Luke 9:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a desperate father approaches Jesus, pleading for help regarding his only son. The father's urgency and emotional state are evident as he calls out to Jesus, indicating the seriousness of his son's condition. The term 'only child' highlights the deep bond between them and the father's fear of losing his son. This moment reflects the human experience of parental love and the lengths a parent will go to seek help for their child. The father's cry for help also illustrates the faith he has in Jesus' ability to heal and restore. This encounter sets the stage for a significant miracle, showcasing Jesus' compassion and power. The father's plea is not just a request for attention; it is a heartfelt expression of desperation and hope, emphasizing the importance of faith in times of crisis. This moment serves as a reminder of the struggles many face when seeking help for loved ones and the hope that can be found in faith.
How to apply Luke 9:38 to your life
This verse encourages us to bring our struggles and the needs of our loved ones to Jesus. It reminds us that in times of desperation, we can seek help through prayer and faith. Trusting in Jesus' compassion can provide comfort and hope in difficult situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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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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Keep studying Luke 9:38
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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 9:38 mean?
Luke 9:38 describes a father who is desperate for help for his only son, showing the deep bond and urgency in his plea to Jesus. This moment highlights the father's faith in Jesus' ability to heal and reflects the emotional struggles of parents seeking help for their children.
What is the significance of 'only child' in Luke 9:38?
The term 'only child' in Luke 9:38 emphasizes the unique and deep relationship between the father and his son, underscoring the father's fear of losing him. It illustrates the intensity of the father's desperation and love, making his plea to Jesus even more poignant.
How does Luke 9:38 relate to faith?
In Luke 9:38, the father's cry for help reflects his faith in Jesus' ability to heal his son. This moment illustrates how faith can drive individuals to seek assistance in times of crisis.
What can we learn from Luke 9:38?
Luke 9:38 teaches us the importance of bringing our struggles and the needs of our loved ones to Jesus. It encourages us to seek help through prayer and to trust in Jesus' compassion during difficult times.
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