King James Version

What Does Luke 11:48 Mean?

“Truly ye bear witness that ye allow the deeds of your fathers: for they indeed killed them, and ye build their sepulchres.”

Context

And he said, Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers.

Woe unto you! for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them.

Truly ye bear witness that ye allow the deeds of your fathers: for they indeed killed them, and ye build their sepulchres.

Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute:

That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation;

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(48) **Truly ye bear witness that ye allow.**—The better MSS. give, *Truly are ye witnesses, and ye allow.* The word “allow” has, as always in the English Bible, the meaning of “approving of,” “consenting to,” “having pleasure in.” The last phrase is the rendering of the same Greek word in Romans 1:32, and would express the meaning here. The derivation of “allow” from the French *allouer* and the Latin *adlaudare,* shows this to be the true sense. On the rest of the verse, see Note on Matthew 23:31.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Luke 11:48 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.