New Testament
Luke 4:39
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 demonstrates His authority over illness by rebuking a fever that had afflicted Peter's mother-in-law.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
He stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up immediately and began serving them.
And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus demonstrates His authority over illness by rebuking a fever that had afflicted Peter's mother-in-law. The act of standing over her signifies His care and attention. When He commands the fever to leave, it obeys immediately, showcasing His divine power. The woman's swift recovery is remarkable; she rises and begins to serve Jesus and His disciples, indicating her gratitude and willingness to help. This moment highlights not only Jesus' miraculous healing ability but also the response of those healed, who often feel compelled to serve others in gratitude. The passage illustrates the compassion of Jesus and His readiness to intervene in human suffering, emphasizing the importance of faith and service in the life of a believer.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 4:39 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in Jesus' power over our struggles and illnesses. It reminds us that healing can lead to a renewed purpose, prompting us to serve others in gratitude for the blessings we receive. We should be ready to help those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 4:39 mean?
Luke 4:39 shows Jesus healing Peter's mother-in-law by rebuking the fever. This act demonstrates His authority over illness and highlights His compassion, as she immediately recovers and begins to serve Him and His disciples.
What is the significance of Jesus rebuking the fever in Luke 4:39?
Jesus rebuking the fever signifies His power over sickness and His ability to restore health. It illustrates His divine authority and compassion, as He actively intervenes in human suffering.
How does Luke 4:39 illustrate Jesus' compassion?
In Luke 4:39, Jesus' act of healing Peter's mother-in-law demonstrates His compassion for those who suffer. He not only addresses her physical ailment but also restores her ability to serve her family.
What themes are present in Luke 4:39?
Luke 4:39 highlights themes such as Jesus' authority over illness, the importance of healing, compassion for others, and the call to serve in gratitude after receiving blessings.

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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