New Testament
Luke 7:33
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, 'He has a demon.'
Compare translations
For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, He hath a devil.
What Luke 7:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is addressing the criticism directed at John the Baptist. John lived a very ascetic lifestyle, abstaining from common foods and drinks, which led some people to label him as possessed by a demon. This reflects a broader theme of how people often judge others based on their choices and lifestyles. Jesus contrasts John’s behavior with the expectations of the people, who seem to find fault regardless of how someone lives. This highlights the tendency of society to criticize those who do not conform to their norms, whether they are too strict or too indulgent. Jesus uses this example to illustrate the hypocrisy of the critics, showing that they are quick to judge without understanding the purpose behind John’s actions. The verse serves as a reminder that people often misinterpret or misjudge others based on their own biases and expectations, rather than seeking to understand the deeper reasons behind their behavior.
How to apply Luke 7:33 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our judgments of others. Instead of quickly labeling someone based on their lifestyle or choices, we should strive to understand their motivations and circumstances. Practicing empathy can lead to more compassionate interactions and reduce unnecessary criticism.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from John the Baptist's story: John's Question from Prison (Luke 7:18–35)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
John the Baptist
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 7:33
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 7:33
Related Bible verses
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 7:33 say about John the Baptist?
Luke 7:33 highlights that John the Baptist lived an ascetic life, abstaining from bread and wine. Despite his dedication, people accused him of being possessed by a demon. This verse illustrates how society often judges individuals based on their lifestyle choices, regardless of their intentions or the reasons behind their actions.
Why did people say John the Baptist had a demon?
People labeled John the Baptist as having a demon because of his strict lifestyle, which included fasting and avoiding common foods and drinks. His ascetic practices were so different from societal norms that they led to misunderstandings and harsh judgments. This reflects a broader tendency for people to criticize those who do not conform to their expectations.
What lesson can we learn from Luke 7:33?
Luke 7:33 teaches us about the dangers of judgment and hypocrisy. It reminds us to be cautious in labeling others based on their choices, as we may not fully understand their motivations. The verse encourages empathy and understanding, urging us to look beyond surface behaviors to grasp the deeper reasons behind them.
How does this verse relate to modern society?
This verse is highly relevant in modern society, where people often face criticism for their lifestyle choices, whether they are too strict or too indulgent. It serves as a reminder to avoid quick judgments and to practice empathy, fostering a more compassionate environment where individuals are understood rather than criticized.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.