Luke 4:35 (KJV)

What does Luke 4:35 mean?

Luke 4:35 describes Jesus commanding an unclean spirit to be silent and leave a man, and although the spirit violently throws the man down, it does not harm him. This shows Jesus’ authority over evil spirits and his power to protect those he helps.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking directly to a demon that has possessed a man in the synagogue. The verse highlights both Jesus’ commanding words and the demon’s reaction—throwing the man down in front of everyone, but ultimately obeying Jesus and leaving the man unharmed. The moment demonstrates Jesus’ authority and the safety he brings, even in dramatic situations.

The Greek behind Luke 4:35

• ἐπετίμησεν (epetimēsen, "rebuked"): This word means to strongly warn or command, often with authority. Here, it shows Jesus is not negotiating but giving a forceful order to the spirit.
• φιμώθητι (phimōthēti, "Hold thy peace"): This is a command to be silent, literally meaning "be muzzled" or "be quiet." Jesus is shutting down the spirit’s ability to speak further.
• βάλον (balon, "thrown"): This word means to throw or cast down. The demon’s action is dramatic, but the verse makes clear that it does not result in harm.
• ἔβλαψεν (eblapsen, "hurt"): This means to injure or harm. The text emphasizes that despite the violent display, the man is left unharmed, underlining Jesus’ protective power.

Why Luke 4:35 matters

• Luke 4:35 clears up the idea that evil spirits can resist Jesus’ authority; the verse shows they must obey him, even if they act out dramatically.
• The verse emphasizes that Jesus’ power brings real safety—he is not just commanding but also ensuring the man is not harmed, which would have amazed the witnesses.
• This moment connects to the wider passage by showing the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, where his authority over spiritual forces is made clear to all who see and hear.