King James Version

What Does Luke 6:18 Mean?

Luke 6:18 in the King James Version says “And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed.” — study this verse from Luke chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed.”

Luke 6:18 · KJV

Context

16

And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor.

17

And he came down with them, and stood in the plain , and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judaea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases;

18

And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed.

19

And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all.

20

And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed (οἱ ἐνοχλούμενοι ἀπὸ πνευμάτων ἀκαθάρτων καὶ ἐθεραπεύοντο, hoi enochlumenoi apo pneumatōn akathartōn kai etherapeuonto). The verb enochlumenoi (ἐνοχλούμενοι, from ἐνοχλέω) means to be troubled, harassed, tormented—present passive participle indicating ongoing torment. These weren't merely sick but demonized, harassed by unclean spirits (pneumatōn akathartōn, πνευμάτων ἀκαθάρτων)—spiritual forces of impurity and corruption.

The simple statement and they were healed (ἐθεραπεύοντο, etherapeuonto—imperfect passive, continuous action) shows Jesus' absolute authority over the demonic realm. Where demons tormented, Jesus brought therapeia (θεραπεία)—healing, restoration, wholeness. This verse demonstrates that Jesus' ministry addresses not only physical illness but spiritual oppression.

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Historical & Cultural Context

First-century Palestinian Judaism recognized demonic activity as causing various afflictions—physical, mental, and spiritual. Unlike pagan exorcists who used elaborate rituals, incantations, and magical formulas, Jesus cast out demons with simple authoritative commands. The crowds gathering from Tyre, Sidon, and all Judea (v. 17) show Jesus' reputation for delivering the demonized had spread throughout the region. This mass healing foreshadows the greater deliverance Christ would accomplish at the cross, destroying Satan's power (Colossians 2:15, Hebrews 2:14-15).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Jesus' authority over unclean spirits encourage you in spiritual warfare and the reality of demonic opposition?
  2. What areas of ongoing torment or harassment in your life need Jesus' healing and delivering power?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
καὶ1 of 8

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οἳ2 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ὀχλούμενοι3 of 8

“they that were vexed”

G3791

to mob, i.e., (by implication) to harass

ὑπὸ4 of 8

“with”

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

πνευμάτων5 of 8

“spirits”

G4151

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

ἀκαθάρτων6 of 8

“unclean”

G169

impure (ceremonially, morally (lewd) or specially, (demonic))

καὶ7 of 8

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐθεραπεύοντο8 of 8

“they were healed”

G2323

to wait upon menially, i.e., (figuratively) to adore (god), or (specially) to relieve (of disease)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Luke 6:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Luke 6:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Matthew 15:22Matthew 17:15Acts 5:16

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