New Testament
Luke 4:36
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Everyone was amazed and talked among themselves, saying, 'What a word this is! For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.'
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And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.
What Luke 4:36 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the people are expressing their astonishment at Jesus' teaching and the authority with which he speaks. They recognize that he has the power to command unclean spirits, which are often associated with evil or demonic influences. The phrase 'What a word this is!' indicates that they are not only impressed by his words but also by the effectiveness of his commands. The unclean spirits obey him, demonstrating his divine authority. This moment highlights the unique power of Jesus compared to other teachers of the law, as he not only teaches but also acts with authority over spiritual forces. The crowd's amazement reflects a growing recognition of Jesus' identity and mission, setting the stage for his ministry and the impact he would have on those around him. This verse encapsulates the beginning of Jesus' public ministry, where his words and actions begin to reveal his divine nature and purpose.
How to apply Luke 4:36 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the authority of Jesus in our lives. Just as he commanded unclean spirits, we can trust that he has power over the challenges we face. We should seek to understand his teachings and apply them, knowing that they come with divine authority. This can strengthen our faith and help us navigate life's difficulties.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: A Sabbath in Capernaum (Luke 4:31–41)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Luke 4:36
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 4:36 mean?
Luke 4:36 describes the amazement of the crowd at Jesus' authority and power to command unclean spirits. It highlights how his words not only teach but also have the ability to drive out evil influences, showcasing his divine authority.
What is the significance of Jesus commanding unclean spirits in Luke 4:36?
The significance lies in demonstrating Jesus' power over evil and his unique authority compared to other teachers. This act reveals his divine nature and sets the foundation for his ministry, showing that he can confront and overcome spiritual forces.
What does 'What a word this is!' mean in Luke 4:36?
The phrase 'What a word this is!' reflects the crowd's astonishment at Jesus' teachings and the effectiveness of his commands. It indicates their recognition of his authority and the impact of his words on their understanding of spiritual matters.
How does Luke 4:36 relate to the authority of Jesus?
Luke 4:36 illustrates Jesus' authority by showing that he can command unclean spirits, which emphasizes his power over evil. This authority is a key theme in his ministry, distinguishing him from other religious leaders of the time.
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