Luke 4:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 4:35
35 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not.
Chapter Context
Luke 4 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of discipleship, love, creation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-44: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 4:35
35 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not.
Analysis
And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. Jesus' response is authoritative and brief. The verb epetimēsen (ἐπετίμησεν, rebuked) indicates stern command, the same word used for rebuking storms (8:24) and fever (4:39). Phimōthēti (φιμώθητι, be muzzled/silenced) is a strong imperative—literally "be muzzled" like a dangerous animal. Jesus refuses the demon's testimony despite its accuracy, maintaining control over how His identity is revealed.
And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not. The demon's violent exit—rhipsan auton eis to meson (ῥίψαν αὐτὸν εἰς τὸ μέσον, throwing him into the midst)—demonstrates demonic malice and Jesus' restraining power. The phrase mēden blapsas auton (μηδὲν βλάψας αὐτόν, having hurt him not at all) shows Jesus' compassion and authority. Unlike typical exorcisms where demons harmed victims during expulsion, Jesus protected the man completely.
Historical Context
Ancient exorcism accounts (both Jewish and pagan) describe elaborate rituals, incantations using divine names, and often physical harm to the possessed person. Josephus describes exorcists using roots, rings, and lengthy formulas. Jesus' simple command contrasts starkly—He speaks with inherent authority, needing no rituals or formulas. His refusal of demonic testimony maintains messianic secrecy until the appointed time. The demon's violent but ultimately harmless exit demonstrates Jesus' complete control—He both expels evil and protects the victim, showing both power and compassion.
Reflection
- Why does Jesus refuse the demon's accurate testimony about His identity?
- What does Jesus' simple command (versus elaborate exorcism rituals) reveal about His inherent authority?
- How does Jesus' protection of the man during the violent exorcism demonstrate both power over evil and compassion for victims?
Cross-References
- Evil: Luke 4:41
- Parallel theme: Luke 4:39, Matthew 8:26