New Testament
Matthew 8:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
That evening, people brought to Jesus many who were possessed by demons. He drove out the spirits with his word and healed everyone who was sick.
Compare translations
When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick:
What Matthew 8:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a powerful moment in Jesus' ministry. As evening fell, many people brought those who were suffering from demonic possession and various illnesses to Him. Jesus demonstrated His authority and compassion by casting out the demons with just His words and healing all who were sick. This shows His divine power and His role as a healer. The act of healing and delivering people from evil spirits highlights His mission to restore and bring wholeness to those in need. It also emphasizes the importance of faith and the willingness of the people to seek help from Jesus. This moment illustrates not only His miraculous abilities but also His deep care for humanity, as He addresses both spiritual and physical afflictions. Through this, we learn about the nature of Jesus as a healer and the hope He brings to those who are suffering.
How to apply Matthew 8:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to bring our struggles and the struggles of others to Jesus. It reminds us that He has the power to heal and deliver. We should have faith in His ability to help us in our times of need and seek His intervention in our lives and the lives of those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Explore more of the Bible
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 Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother

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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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 Matthew 8:16
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 Matthew 8:16
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 8:16 teach us about Jesus' authority?
Matthew 8:16 highlights Jesus' authority over both spiritual and physical ailments. By casting out demons and healing the sick with just His words, it demonstrates His divine power and ability to restore wholeness to those in need. This verse reassures believers of Jesus' capability to intervene in their lives and emphasizes His role as a healer.
How can we apply Matthew 8:16 in our daily lives?
We can apply Matthew 8:16 by bringing our own struggles and the struggles of others to Jesus in prayer. This verse encourages us to have faith in His power to heal and deliver. It reminds us to seek His help in times of need, trusting that He cares deeply for our physical and spiritual well-being.
What does 'possessed by demons' mean in this context?
In Matthew 8:16, 'possessed by demons' refers to individuals who were believed to be under the influence or control of evil spirits. This reflects the understanding of spiritual warfare in biblical times, where demonic possession was seen as a significant affliction requiring divine intervention for healing and restoration.
Why is Jesus' healing significant in Matthew 8:16?
Jesus' healing in Matthew 8:16 is significant because it showcases His compassion and authority as the Messiah. It illustrates His mission to restore individuals both physically and spiritually, affirming His role as a healer. This act of healing serves as a testament to His divine nature and the hope He offers to those suffering.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.