Luke 18:27
What does Luke 18:27 mean?
A plain-English look at Luke 18:27 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Luke 18:27 means
Jesus responds to the disciples' despairing question by affirming that while salvation is impossible through human effort, it is entirely possible with God. This statement shifts the focus from human ability and striving to divine power and grace. It underscores that entering the Kingdom, especially for those burdened by wealth or any other impediment, is ultimately a work of God, not man. God's omnipotence removes all perceived human limitations.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000But he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901But he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949But he said, Things which are not possible with man are possible with God.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and he said, `The things impossible with men are possible with God.'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752He said to them: The things that are impossible with men are possible with God.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890But he said, The things that are impossible with men are possible withGod.
Context
This verse presents Jesus's reassuring and profound answer to the disciples' question in verse 26, providing the divine perspective on salvation. It directly counters human despair by emphasizing God's omnipotence, setting the stage for Peter's question about the disciples' own sacrifices and the rewards of following Jesus.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Job 42:2
I know that thou canst do all things, And that no purpose of thine can be restrained.
- Jeremiah 32:17
Ah Lord Jehovah! behold, thou hast made the heavens and the earth by thy great power and by thine outstretched arm; there is nothing too hard for thee,
- Genesis 18:14
Is anything too hard for Jehovah? At the set time I will return unto thee, when the season cometh round, and Sarah shall have a son.
- Ephesians 2:4
but God, being rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
- Luke 1:37
For no word from God shall be void of power.
- Ephesians 1:19
and what the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to that working of the strength of his might
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Luke 18
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Luke 18.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Children
God’s Word provides profound insights into the rearing, value, and blessing of children, as well as the responsibilities of both parents and children.
Topic
Bible Verses About Justice
God’s perfect character and righteous standards guide all justice, which we are called to pursue in our lives and communities.
Topic
Bible Verses About Widows
The Bible consistently shows God's care for widows and calls His people to also care for them, reflecting His compassionate heart.
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for Anxiety Before a Job Interview
Quiet your nerves and walk in with steady steps — six verses to pray on the way.
Verses for
Bible Verses for When Prayer Feels Empty
When the words won't come — scripture for the dry prayer life.
Verses for
Bible Verses for When You Feel Forgotten by God
When the prayers feel one-sided — verses for the quiet seasons.