New Testament
Luke 9:4
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Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town.
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And whatsoever house ye enter into, there abide, and thence depart.
What Luke 9:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus instructs his disciples on how to approach their mission. When they enter a town, they should find a suitable house to stay in and remain there until they leave. This guidance emphasizes the importance of stability and commitment during their ministry. By staying in one place, they can build relationships, share the message effectively, and avoid unnecessary distractions. It also reflects a sense of trust in the hospitality of the people they are serving. The instruction to stay in one house rather than moving around suggests that they should focus on the people and the message rather than seeking better accommodations. This principle can be applied to various aspects of life, encouraging us to invest in our current situations and relationships rather than constantly seeking something better. Overall, this verse highlights the importance of being present and dedicated in our endeavors, especially when sharing our beliefs and values with others.
How to apply Luke 9:4 to your life
When engaging in any community or ministry, focus on building strong relationships rather than constantly seeking new opportunities. Invest time and effort in the people around you, as this can lead to deeper connections and more effective communication of your values and beliefs.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Sending Out the Twelve (Luke 9:1–6)
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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 9:4
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 9:4 mean?
In Luke 9:4, Jesus tells his disciples to stay in one house when they enter a town until they leave. This instruction emphasizes the importance of stability and commitment during their mission, allowing them to build relationships and effectively share their message.
What is the meaning of 'stay there until you leave that town' in Luke 9:4?
The phrase 'stay there until you leave that town' means that the disciples should settle in one place rather than moving around. This encourages them to focus on the people they are serving and to establish deeper connections.
How can I apply Luke 9:4 in my life?
You can apply Luke 9:4 by focusing on building strong relationships in your community or workplace. Instead of constantly seeking new opportunities, invest time and effort in the people around you to create deeper connections.
What themes are present in Luke 9:4?
The themes present in Luke 9:4 include hospitality, commitment, mission, stability, and relationships. These themes emphasize the importance of being present and dedicated in your endeavors.
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