Luke 11:32

Luke 11:32 Meaning and Explanation

The men of Nineve shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.

King James Version (KJV)

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The men of Nineveh, who repented at Jonah's preaching, will rise in judgment against this generation, for a greater than Jonah is here.

What Does Luke 11:32 Mean?

A second witness: Nineveh, the pagan city that repented in sackcloth at the preaching of a reluctant prophet (Jonah 3). Its men too will rise at the judgment and condemn the generation that heard Jesus unmoved.

Nineveh had one preacher, no covenant, no Scriptures -- and repented. Jesus' hearers had Moses, the prophets, and the Son himself. A greater than Jonas is here: greater in person, in message, in mercy. The only safe response to such greatness is the one Nineveh gave -- repentance.

Luke 11:32 in the Original Language

metanoeo (μετανοέω), 'repented' -- to change one's mind and turn around.

Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 11:32

What does Luke 11:32 mean?

The men of Nineveh, who repented at Jonah's preaching, will rise in judgment against this generation, for a greater than Jonah is here.

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