New Testament
Luke 9:58
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, Jesus is responding to someone who wants to follow Him.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Jesus replied, "Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head."
And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is responding to someone who wants to follow Him. He highlights the contrast between the comfort of animals, like foxes and birds, which have homes, and His own lack of a permanent place to stay. This statement emphasizes the sacrifices involved in following Him. Jesus, known as the 'Son of Man,' indicates that His mission is not about earthly comforts or security. Instead, it points to a life of itinerancy and hardship. By mentioning that He has no place to lay His head, Jesus invites potential followers to consider the cost of discipleship. Following Him may require leaving behind the comforts and stability that many people take for granted. This verse serves as a reminder that true commitment to Jesus may lead to a life of uncertainty and sacrifice, but it is also a call to trust in God's provision and purpose, even in difficult circumstances.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 9:58 to your life
This verse challenges us to evaluate our priorities and what we are willing to sacrifice for our faith. It encourages us to embrace a lifestyle of trust in God, even when it means stepping out of our comfort zones. Following Jesus may require us to let go of worldly security.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 9:58 mean?
In Luke 9:58, Jesus is explaining that while animals have homes, He does not have a permanent place to stay. This highlights the sacrifices and hardships involved in following Him.
What is the meaning of 'Son of Man' in Luke 9:58?
The term 'Son of Man' refers to Jesus Himself, emphasizing His humanity and mission. In this context, it underscores His lack of earthly comforts and the challenges He faces.
How does Luke 9:58 relate to discipleship?
Luke 9:58 illustrates that true discipleship may involve a life of uncertainty and sacrifice. Jesus uses this statement to prepare His followers for the challenges they may encounter.
What themes are present in Luke 9:58?
Key themes in Luke 9:58 include discipleship, sacrifice, and the contrast between earthly comforts and spiritual commitment. It encourages trust in God despite life's uncertainties.

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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