King James Version

What Does Luke 9:23 Mean?

“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily , and follow me.”

Context

And he straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing;

Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.

And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily , and follow me.

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.

For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(23-27) **If any man will come after me.**—See Notes on Matthew 16:24-28; Mark 8:34; Mark 9:1. **Take up his cross daily.**—The adverb is peculiar to St. Luke’s report, and at least reminds us of St. Paul’s “I die daily” (1Corinthians 15:31).

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 9:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.