New Testament
Luke 9:39
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, we see a boy who is possessed by an evil spirit that causes him to have violent seizures.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
A spirit seizes him, and he suddenly cries out. It throws him into convulsions so that he foams at the mouth, and it bruises him and departs with difficulty.
And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth from him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a boy who is possessed by an evil spirit that causes him to have violent seizures. The spirit seizes him suddenly, leading to intense physical reactions like crying out, convulsions, and foaming at the mouth. This condition is so severe that it leaves the boy bruised and in distress. The description highlights the torment the boy experiences and the struggle the spirit has in leaving him. This passage illustrates the power of evil forces and the suffering they can inflict on individuals. It also sets the stage for the need for divine intervention and healing, which is a central theme in the ministry of Jesus. The vivid imagery emphasizes the urgency and seriousness of the boy's condition, showcasing the desperation of his situation and the hope for deliverance that Jesus brings. Explore related spiritual.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 9:39 to your life
This verse reminds us of the reality of spiritual struggles in our lives. It encourages us to seek help and healing through faith in Jesus, who has the power to overcome evil. We should also be compassionate towards those who suffer, offering support and prayer.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 9:39 mean?
Luke 9:39 describes a boy who is possessed by an evil spirit, causing him to have violent seizures and physical distress. This verse illustrates the severe impact of spiritual affliction and the need for healing.
What is the meaning of the spirit seizing the boy in Luke 9:39?
The spirit seizing the boy represents the influence of evil forces that can cause suffering and turmoil in a person's life. It highlights the struggle between good and evil and the urgent need for divine intervention.
What does the phrase 'foams at the mouth' mean in Luke 9:39?
The phrase 'foams at the mouth' describes the physical symptoms of the boy's seizures, indicating the severity of his condition due to the evil spirit's influence.
How does Luke 9:39 relate to spiritual warfare?
Luke 9:39 illustrates the reality of spiritual warfare, showing how evil spirits can afflict individuals. It emphasizes the need for faith and divine help to overcome such struggles.

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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