Luke 13:28

KJV

There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you [yourselves] thrust out.

KJV (with Strong's)

There {G1563} shall be {G2071} weeping {G2805} and {G2532} gnashing {G1030} of teeth {G3599}, when {G3752} ye shall see {G3700} Abraham {G11}, and {G2532} Isaac {G2464}, and {G2532} Jacob {G2384}, and {G2532} all {G3956} the prophets {G4396}, in {G1722} the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316}, and {G1161} you {G5209} yourselves thrust {G1544} out {G1854}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You will cry and grind your teeth when you see Avraham, Yitz’chak, Ya‘akov and all the prophets inside the Kingdom of God, but yourselves thrown outside.

Berean Standard Bible

There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but you yourselves are thrown out.

American Standard Version

There shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and yourselves cast forth without.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 13:28 delivers a stark and sobering warning from Jesus, vividly portraying the ultimate and irreversible separation between those who enter God's promised kingdom and those who are excluded. It paints a picture of intense anguish and bitter regret for those on the outside, who witness the revered patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, along with all the prophets, securely within the divine realm, while they themselves are forcefully cast out into despair.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the climactic and most vivid warning within Jesus' teaching on the "narrow gate," which begins in [Luke 13:23](/luke/13-23 "Luke 13:23 - The Question of Few Being Saved"). A person asks Jesus if only a few will be saved, prompting Jesus' response that all should "strive to enter through the narrow gate" ([Luke 13:24](/luke/13-24 "Luke 13:24 - Strive to Enter the Narrow Gate")). He warns against complacency, describing a future time when many will attempt to enter but will be unable, as the master of the house has shut the door. The preceding verses ([Luke 13:25-27](/luke/13-25-27 "Luke 13:25-27 - The Shut Door and Exclusion")) describe individuals pleading for entry, only to be told, "I do not know where you come from," and to "depart from me, all you workers of iniquity." Luke 13:28 then serves as the painful realization of this exclusion, emphasizing the visual and emotional agony of those shut out. This passage echoes similar warnings about the kingdom found in [Matthew 7:13-14](/matthew/7-13-14 "Matthew 7:13-14 - The Narrow and Wide Gates") and [Matthew 8:11-12](/matthew/8-11-12 "Matthew 8:11-12 - Many Will Come from East and West"), where Jesus speaks of Gentiles from afar joining the patriarchs in the kingdom, while "children of the kingdom" are cast out.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Judaism, there was a widespread assumption among many that their ethnic heritage as descendants of Abraham guaranteed their place in God's kingdom. Membership in the covenant community, marked by circumcision and adherence to the Law, was often perceived as sufficient for salvation. Jesus' teaching in Luke 13 challenges this presumption directly. By mentioning Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, along with the prophets, Jesus invokes figures central to Jewish identity and their understanding of God's covenant. The imagery of a great feast or banquet was a common metaphor for the messianic age or the kingdom of God, where the righteous would recline with the patriarchs. The "thrusting out" and "weeping and gnashing of teeth" would have been particularly shocking to an audience that largely believed their lineage secured their place at this eschatological banquet. Jesus' words underscore that true entry into the kingdom is not based on mere ancestry or outward religious observance, but on genuine repentance, faith, and transformative obedience, a message that would have been counter-cultural to many of His Jewish listeners.

* **Key Themes:** Luke 13:28 significantly contributes to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel and Jesus' broader teaching. A primary theme is **Divine Judgment and Exclusion**, highlighting the reality that not all who expect to enter the kingdom will do so, and that there are severe, irreversible consequences for those who neglect God's call. This ties into the theme of **Urgency and Personal Responsibility** to respond to Jesus' message, as seen in the call to "strive" ([Luke 13:24](/luke/13-24 "Luke 13:24 - Strive to Enter the Narrow Gate")). The verse also powerfully addresses the theme of **Redefining God's People**, challenging the ethnocentric view of salvation prevalent among some Jews. By stating that Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the prophets will be in the kingdom while some "yourselves" are thrust out, Jesus implies that true spiritual lineage, based on faith and obedience, supersedes physical descent. This foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles and the universal nature of the kingdom, a theme echoed in [Matthew 8:11](/matthew/8-11 "Matthew 8:11 - Many Will Come from East and West"). Finally, the imagery of "weeping and gnashing of teeth" contributes to the theme of **Eschatological Consequences**, vividly depicting the despair and torment of those who face eternal separation from God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **weeping (Greek, _klauthmós'_):** From the verb _klaiō_, meaning "to lament" or "to wail." _Klauthmós_ denotes loud, audible crying or lamentation, expressing deep grief, sorrow, and distress. In this context, it signifies the profound and audible sorrow of those who realize their eternal loss.
* **gnashing (Greek, _brygmós'_):** From the verb _brychō_, meaning "to gnash" or "to grind." _Brygmós_ specifically refers to the grinding or clenching of teeth, a physical manifestation of intense pain, extreme frustration, rage, or despair. When combined with "weeping," it conveys an image of utter agony and bitter remorse, often associated with a sense of powerlessness and self-reproach.
* **thrust out (Greek, _ekbállō'_):** From _ek_ ("out") and _ballō_ ("to throw"). This verb means "to eject," "to cast out," "to drive out," or "to expel" with force. It implies a forceful, decisive, and permanent removal. Here, it underscores the involuntary and definitive exclusion from the kingdom, emphasizing the finality of the judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth,"**: This clause sets the scene for the profound despair awaiting those who are excluded. The vivid imagery of "weeping" (deep sorrow, lamentation) and "gnashing of teeth" (intense pain, rage, frustration, or remorse) is a recurring motif in Jesus' teachings about judgment (e.g., [Matthew 8:12](/matthew/8-12 "Matthew 8:12 - Outer Darkness and Despair"), [Matthew 22:13](/matthew/22-13 "Matthew 22:13 - The Wedding Feast and Outer Darkness")). It describes not just sadness, but a visceral, agonizing despair over a lost opportunity and an irreversible fate.
* **"when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God,"**: This clause introduces a critical element of the torment: the visual realization of what has been lost. The excluded will witness the revered patriarchs and prophets—figures representing faithful adherence to God's covenant and promises—securely within the "kingdom of God." This kingdom, God's sovereign rule, is depicted as a place of blessing and fellowship. The sight of these esteemed figures enjoying the kingdom while they are outside intensifies their anguish, highlighting the irony and tragedy of their exclusion, especially for those who presumed their place based on lineage.
* **"and you [yourselves] thrust out."**: This final clause explicitly states the fate of the excluded. The term "thrust out" (Greek: _ekbállō_) signifies a forceful and permanent expulsion. The emphasis on "you yourselves" highlights the personal and direct nature of this judgment. It underscores that despite their expectations or claims, they are definitively and irreversibly separated from the blessings and presence of God's kingdom. This exclusion is the direct cause of the "weeping and gnashing of teeth," as it represents the ultimate loss of salvation and divine favor.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 13:28 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its solemn message. **Imagery** is central, particularly with the vivid phrase "weeping and gnashing of teeth." This sensory description immediately evokes a strong emotional response, painting a picture of profound physical and emotional torment, despair, and bitter remorse. The verse also utilizes stark **Contrast**, juxtaposing the joyous inclusion of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets "in the kingdom of God" with the painful reality of "you yourselves thrust out." This sharp dichotomy emphasizes the absolute nature of the division and amplifies the tragedy of exclusion. Furthermore, the passage functions as a **Prophetic Warning**, speaking of a future, definitive judgment. Jesus' words are not merely descriptive but serve as an urgent call to action, urging listeners to avoid this terrible fate. The use of direct address ("ye," "you yourselves") makes the warning intensely personal and immediate for the audience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 13:28 is a profound theological statement on the nature of salvation, judgment, and the true identity of God's people. It shatters any presumption of automatic inclusion in God's kingdom based on ethnic heritage, religious affiliation, or mere outward observance. Instead, it forcefully asserts that entry requires a genuine, transformative response to God's call, emphasizing personal accountability and the critical importance of actively striving to enter through the narrow gate. The vision of the patriarchs and prophets within the kingdom underscores that true faith has always been the criterion for divine favor, and that those who merely claim a relationship with God without living in obedience will face a painful and irreversible exclusion. This passage serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of eternal consequences and the necessity of a living, active faith in Christ.

* [Matthew 8:11-12](/matthew/8-11-12 "Matthew 8:11-12 - Many Will Come from East and West")
* [Matthew 25:30](/matthew/25-30 "Matthew 25:30 - Outer Darkness and Weeping")
* [Luke 13:24](/luke/13-24 "Luke 13:24 - Strive to Enter the Narrow Gate")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 13:28 serves as a powerful and urgent call to introspection for every believer and seeker. It challenges any passive assumption of salvation or spiritual complacency, urging us to examine the authenticity of our faith and the direction of our lives. The stark imagery of "weeping and gnashing of teeth" and being "thrust out" is not meant to instill fear for fear's sake, but to awaken a deep sense of urgency regarding our eternal destiny. It compels us to ask if our lives genuinely reflect a striving for the "narrow gate," characterized by repentance, obedience, and a true commitment to Christ, or if we are relying on external associations or mere intellectual assent. This verse reminds us that the Kingdom of God is not a given for everyone, but a gracious invitation that demands a wholehearted and active response. It calls us to live with intentionality, pursuing righteousness and cultivating a genuine relationship with God, so that we may not face the agonizing realization of having missed the ultimate opportunity for eternal life and fellowship with Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "striving to enter through the narrow gate" practically look like in my daily life?**
* **Am I relying on anything other than a genuine, transformative faith in Jesus Christ for my assurance of salvation?**
* **How does the imagery of "weeping and gnashing of teeth" motivate me to live a life more fully devoted to God?**
* **In what ways might I be complacent about my spiritual journey, and what steps can I take to cultivate greater urgency and diligence?**

### FAQ
**What does "weeping and gnashing of teeth" mean in this context?**

Answer: "Weeping and gnashing of teeth" is a vivid and recurring phrase used by Jesus throughout the Gospels (e.g., [Matthew 8:12](/matthew/8-12 "Matthew 8:12 - Outer Darkness and Despair"), [Matthew 13:42](/matthew/13-42 "Matthew 13:42 - Parable of the Weeds"), [Matthew 22:13](/matthew/22-13 "Matthew 22:13 - The Wedding Feast and Outer Darkness")). It describes the profound anguish, bitter remorse, and hopeless despair of those who are excluded from the Kingdom of God. "Weeping" signifies deep sorrow and lamentation, while "gnashing of teeth" conveys intense pain, frustration, and perhaps even rage or self-reproach at the realization of an irreversible loss. It's a powerful depiction of eternal torment and regret.

**Why are Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the prophets mentioned as being "in the kingdom of God"?**

Answer: The mention of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets is significant because they represent the revered patriarchs and foundational figures of Israel's faith. In Jesus' time, many Jews presumed that their physical descent from these figures guaranteed their place in God's kingdom. By stating that these figures are securely within the kingdom while others (who might have expected to be there based on lineage) are "thrust out," Jesus challenges this presumption. He emphasizes that true entry into God's kingdom is not based on ethnic heritage or outward religious association, but on genuine faith and obedience, aligning with the spiritual legacy of these faithful ancestors. This also foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles (as seen in [Matthew 8:11](/matthew/8-11 "Matthew 8:11 - Many Will Come from East and West")), indicating that the kingdom is open to all who respond in faith, regardless of their background.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 13:28, while a stern warning, finds its ultimate fulfillment and resolution in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "narrow gate" through which one must strive to enter is ultimately Jesus Himself, who declares, "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved" ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Door")). The "weeping and gnashing of teeth" and the painful exclusion are the consequences for those who reject or neglect the salvation offered uniquely through Him. Jesus, as the Lamb of God ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), bore the judgment and suffering that would otherwise be the fate of humanity, opening a new and living way into the very presence of God ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - The New and Living Way")). The patriarchs and prophets are seen in the kingdom because their faith pointed forward to the coming Messiah, and their righteousness was accounted to them by God's grace, anticipating the perfect righteousness of Christ. Thus, the warning of Luke 13:28 serves to underscore the profound necessity of responding to Jesus' invitation, for He is the one who will ultimately sit on His glorious throne and separate the sheep from the goats ([Matthew 25:31-33](/matthew/25-31-33 "Matthew 25:31-33 - The Judgment of the Nations")), determining who enters the kingdom and who is "thrust out." True fulfillment of the promise of the kingdom, and escape from the anguish of exclusion, is found solely in a personal, transformative relationship with Christ, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 8:11

And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 8:12

But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 25:30

And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 22:13

Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast [him] into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

2 Thessalonians 1:5

¶ [Which is] a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:

Revelation 21:8

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

Revelation 22:15

For without [are] dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.