New Testament
Luke 11:20
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 is addressing the accusations that He casts out demons by the power of Satan.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then without a doubt the kingdom of God has come upon you.
But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is addressing the accusations that He casts out demons by the power of Satan. He asserts that if He is driving out demons through the 'finger of God,' it is clear evidence that God's kingdom is present among them. The 'finger of God' symbolizes divine authority and power, indicating that Jesus' ability to perform miracles and exorcisms comes directly from God. This statement challenges the listeners to recognize the significance of His works as signs of God's reign breaking into the world. It emphasizes that the arrival of God's kingdom is marked by the defeat of evil and the restoration of order. Jesus is essentially saying that His actions are not just random acts of power but are part of a larger divine plan to establish God's rule on earth. This verse invites reflection on the nature of God's kingdom and the authority of Jesus as the Messiah.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 11:20 to your life
This verse encourages believers to recognize the presence of God's kingdom in their lives. It reminds us that God's power is at work in the world, overcoming evil. We should seek to align ourselves with God's authority and actively participate in His mission to bring healing and restoration to those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 11:20 mean?
Luke 11:20 means that if Jesus is casting out demons by God's power, it shows that God's kingdom is present. It emphasizes that His miracles are evidence of God's authority and the arrival of His reign.
What is the meaning of 'finger of God' in Luke 11:20?
The 'finger of God' in Luke 11:20 symbolizes divine power and authority. It indicates that Jesus' ability to drive out demons comes directly from God, affirming His role in establishing God's kingdom.
How does Luke 11:20 relate to spiritual warfare?
Luke 11:20 relates to spiritual warfare by showing that Jesus' actions against demons represent the battle between good and evil. It illustrates that God's power is actively overcoming evil forces.
What themes are present in Luke 11:20?
Themes in Luke 11:20 include divine authority, the kingdom of God, exorcism, and the recognition of Jesus' power. It highlights the significance of Jesus' miracles as signs of God's reign.

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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