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)
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?
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.
Unlock the full Luke summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Luke — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Luke summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.