And when he had said these things, all his adversaries were ashamed: and all the people rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by him.

LUKE 13:17KJV
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Luke 13:17 (KJV)

What does Luke 13:17 mean?

Luke 13:17 describes how, after Jesus spoke, his opponents were embarrassed, while the ordinary people were filled with joy because of the wonderful things he did. The verse highlights a sharp contrast between those who opposed Jesus and the crowds who celebrated his actions.

In this scene, Jesus has just healed a woman on the Sabbath, which led to criticism from religious leaders. Jesus responds to them, and his words leave his adversaries feeling ashamed. Meanwhile, the people witnessing the event rejoice, recognizing the good and remarkable things Jesus is doing among them.

The Greek behind Luke 13:17

  • The word for "adversaries" is ἀντίδικος (antidikos), which refers to those who actively opposed or accused Jesus. This highlights that the criticism came from people positioned against him, not just casual observers.
  • The word for "ashamed" is καταισχύνω (kataischynō), meaning deeply embarrassed or put to shame. The Greek here carries the sense of public disgrace, showing that Jesus’ response left his critics without a reply.
  • The word for "rejoiced" is χαίρω (chairō), which means to be glad or delighted. The crowd’s reaction is not just approval but genuine joy at what Jesus has done.
  • The phrase "glorious things" uses ἔνδοξος (endoxos), often understood as "splendid" or "honorable" deeds, emphasizing the remarkable and praiseworthy nature of Jesus’ actions.

Why Luke 13:17 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Jesus’ miracles and teachings often divided opinion, with religious leaders feeling threatened while ordinary people responded with joy.
  • The public shame of Jesus’ adversaries shows the strength and wisdom of his answers, revealing his authority in the face of criticism.
  • The crowd’s rejoicing connects to a recurring theme in Luke: Jesus bringing hope and restoration to those overlooked or burdened, and the people recognizing the goodness of his works.

Where else these words appear

“things” Greek G1741 · used in 4 verses

  • Luke 7:25 But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts.
  • 1 Corinthians 4:10 We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised.
  • Ephesians 5:27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

“adversaries” Greek G480 · used in 8 verses

  • Luke 21:15 For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.
  • Galatians 5:17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
  • 2 Thessalonians 2:4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.

“ashamed” Greek G2617 · used in 12 verses

  • Romans 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
  • 2 Corinthians 7:14 For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.

“rejoiced” Greek G5463 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 2:10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
  • John 14:28 Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.
  • 2 Corinthians 7:13 Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.