New Testament
Luke 9:49
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John spoke up and said, "Master, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him because he isn't part of our group."
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And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us.
What Luke 9:49 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, John, one of Jesus' disciples, reports to Jesus that they encountered someone who was casting out demons using Jesus' name. However, they tried to stop this person because he was not part of their immediate group of followers. This highlights a common human tendency to create boundaries around who can participate in spiritual activities. John’s reaction reflects a concern for maintaining the integrity of their group, but it also reveals a misunderstanding of Jesus' mission. Jesus came to bring healing and deliverance to all, not just to a select few. This moment serves as a reminder that God's work can be done through various people, regardless of their affiliation with specific groups or traditions. It challenges believers to be open to the ways God may be working outside their own circles and to recognize that the power of Jesus' name is not limited to a particular community.
How to apply Luke 9:49 to your life
This verse encourages us to embrace a broader view of God's work in the world. We should be open to recognizing and supporting those who serve God, even if they are not part of our immediate community. It reminds us to focus on the mission of Christ rather than on group identity.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: “Forbid Him Not” (Luke 9:49–50)
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John the Apostle
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Luke 9:49
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 9:49 mean?
In Luke 9:49, John tells Jesus that they saw someone casting out demons in His name, but they tried to stop him because he wasn't part of their group. This reflects a misunderstanding of Jesus' mission, which is inclusive and not limited to a specific group of followers.
What is the meaning of casting out demons in Luke 9:49?
Casting out demons in Luke 9:49 refers to the act of expelling evil spirits from individuals, demonstrating the power of Jesus' name. It shows that spiritual authority can be exercised by anyone who believes in Jesus, not just His immediate disciples.
Why did John try to stop the person in Luke 9:49?
John tried to stop the person casting out demons because he believed that only those within their group should perform such acts. This reflects a common human instinct to protect group identity and authority.
What lesson can we learn from Luke 9:49?
Luke 9:49 teaches us to be open to God's work beyond our immediate community. It encourages believers to recognize that the power of Jesus' name can operate through various people, regardless of their affiliations.
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