New Testament
Luke 8:31
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, we see a powerful encounter between Jesus and demons.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
The demons kept begging Jesus not to send them into the deep.
And they besought him that he would not command them to go out into the deep.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a powerful encounter between Jesus and demons. The demons, recognizing Jesus' authority, plead with Him not to send them into the 'deep,' which refers to the abyss or a place of confinement. This shows their fear of being cast out and losing their power. The deep symbolizes a place of punishment and separation from the world. The demons' begging highlights their desperation and the authority that Jesus holds over them. This moment illustrates the spiritual battle between good and evil, where Jesus demonstrates His power to command even the forces of darkness. It also reveals the nature of demons, who are aware of their fate and seek to avoid it at all costs. This interaction sets the stage for the miraculous deliverance that follows, emphasizing Jesus' role as a savior and liberator.
Key themes
Related topics
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 8:31 to your life
This verse reminds us of the power of Jesus over all spiritual forces. In our lives, we may face struggles that feel overwhelming, but we can trust that Jesus has authority over every situation. We should seek His help in times of trouble, knowing He can deliver us from darkness.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 8:31 mean?
Luke 8:31 depicts a moment where demons plead with Jesus not to send them into the abyss, showing their fear of losing power and facing punishment. This highlights Jesus' authority over evil spirits and the spiritual battle between good and evil.
What is the meaning of 'the deep' in Luke 8:31?
In Luke 8:31, 'the deep' refers to the abyss, a place of confinement and punishment for demons. It symbolizes their fear of being cast out from the world and losing their influence.
Why do the demons beg Jesus in Luke 8:31?
The demons beg Jesus not to send them into the deep because they fear the abyss represents their ultimate punishment and loss of power. Their pleading indicates their awareness of Jesus' authority and their desperate situation.
What does Luke 8:31 teach us about spiritual authority?
Luke 8:31 teaches that Jesus has ultimate authority over spiritual forces, including demons. This verse reassures believers that they can trust in Jesus' power to overcome struggles and darkness in their lives.

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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