New Testament

Luke 11:13

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the contrast between human nature and God's nature.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

So if you, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?

KJVKing James Version

If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the contrast between human nature and God's nature. He acknowledges that even flawed people, who are described as 'evil,' know how to provide good things for their children. This highlights a basic human instinct to care for loved ones. Jesus then makes a powerful point: if imperfect humans can give good gifts, how much more will God, who is perfect and loving, give the Holy Spirit to those who ask? The Holy Spirit is a precious gift that empowers, guides, and comforts believers. This verse reassures us of God's willingness to bless us abundantly, especially when we seek Him earnestly. It encourages us to approach God with confidence, knowing that He desires to give us good things, particularly the gift of His Spirit, which is essential for our spiritual growth and relationship with Him.

How to apply Luke 11:13 to your life

This verse encourages us to ask God for the Holy Spirit in our lives. We should approach Him with confidence, knowing that He desires to bless us. Regular prayer and seeking God's presence can lead to a deeper relationship and spiritual empowerment.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 11:13 mean?

Luke 11:13 highlights the contrast between human and divine generosity. It shows that if flawed humans can give good gifts, God, who is perfect, will give even greater gifts, specifically the Holy Spirit, to those who ask.

What is the meaning of the Holy Spirit in Luke 11:13?

In Luke 11:13, the Holy Spirit represents God's presence and power in the lives of believers. It is a gift that provides guidance, comfort, and empowerment for spiritual growth.

How can I ask for the Holy Spirit according to Luke 11:13?

You can ask for the Holy Spirit through prayer, expressing your desire for God's presence and guidance in your life. Approach God with confidence, trusting in His promise to give good gifts.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

The Book of Luke

Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold

In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.

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