New Testament
Luke 9:55
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But Jesus turned and rebuked them, saying, "You don't know what kind of spirit you are of."
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But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of.
What Luke 9:55 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus responds to his disciples who wanted to call down fire from heaven to punish a Samaritan village that rejected them. His rebuke highlights their misunderstanding of His mission and the nature of His message. Instead of seeking vengeance, Jesus emphasizes compassion and love. The disciples were acting out of a spirit of anger and retribution, which was contrary to the spirit of grace and mercy that Jesus embodied. This moment serves as a teaching point for the disciples, reminding them that their purpose is to spread love and forgiveness, not to enact judgment. Jesus' response encourages believers to reflect on their motivations and attitudes, ensuring they align with the teachings of love and humility that He exemplified throughout His ministry.
How to apply Luke 9:55 to your life
This verse challenges us to examine our reactions to rejection or hostility. Instead of responding with anger or a desire for revenge, we should strive to embody the spirit of love and forgiveness that Jesus taught. Practicing compassion can transform our interactions and reflect Christ's character.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Setting Out for Jerusalem (Luke 9:51–62)
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Jesus
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 9:55
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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 9:55 mean?
In Luke 9:55, Jesus rebukes His disciples for wanting to call down fire on a Samaritan village that rejected them. He highlights their misunderstanding of His mission, which is centered on love and compassion rather than vengeance.
What is the meaning of 'spirit' in Luke 9:55?
In this verse, 'spirit' refers to the attitude or mindset of the disciples. Jesus points out that their desire for retribution reflects a spirit of anger, which contrasts with the spirit of grace and mercy He embodies.
How does Luke 9:55 apply to our lives today?
Luke 9:55 encourages us to reflect on our reactions to rejection or hostility. Instead of seeking revenge, we are called to practice compassion and embody the love that Jesus taught.
Why did Jesus rebuke His disciples in Luke 9:55?
Jesus rebuked His disciples because they wanted to respond to rejection with violence. He wanted them to understand that His mission was about love and forgiveness, not judgment.
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