Luke 18:27

And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.

Luke 18:27 (KJV)

Context

Jesus speaks these words after a rich ruler asks what he must do to inherit eternal life. The ruler claims to have kept the commandments since his youth, but when Jesus tells him to sell all he has, give to the poor, and follow Him, the ruler becomes sorrowful because he is very rich. Jesus then remarks how hard it is for those with riches to enter the kingdom of God, prompting the disciples to ask, “Who then can be saved?” Verse 27 is Jesus’ direct answer.

The Greek word for “impossible” (adynaton) stresses human inability, while “possible” (dynata) points to divine omnipotence. The impossibility is not merely about giving up wealth; it is about the human inability to save oneself or meet God’s standards. Salvation and the radical surrender it requires are beyond human power, but God can accomplish them.

Meaning

Jesus emphasizes that human effort alone is insufficient for salvation and entrance into the kingdom of God. Only through God’s power and grace does salvation become possible. This verse reassures believers that no matter how impossible a situation may seem, God is able to accomplish it. It highlights the difference between human limitations and divine possibilities, calling us to rely on God’s sovereignty and trust His ability to work in our lives.

Application

This verse does not promise that everything we desire will happen, but that God is able to do what is impossible from a human perspective, especially in salvation and transformation. Believers can trust God to do what they cannot do themselves, resting in His grace rather than their own efforts.

Reflection

When we face situations that seem hopeless, this verse invites us to remember that God’s power is not limited by our limitations. It calls us to faith and dependence on Him, knowing that what is impossible with men is possible with God.