Definition: Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Luke 9:1. It’s a really important starting point for understanding Jesus’ ministry in the Bible! Here's what it means, explained simply: Basically, Jesus is setting up a team to help people who were sick. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Luke 9:1 Then he called his twelve disciples…” – This means Jesus started by choosing a group of people to be with him on his journey. He wanted someone to help him spread the word and do good things. “…and gave them power and authority over all devils…” – This is where it gets interesting! “Devil” in this context isn’t really about evil spirits. It means a person or thing that was causing trouble, spreading sickness, or being difficult to deal with. Jesus is saying he's giving these disciples power to overcome these things. He's essentially giving them the ability to stop the bad things happening around them. “…and to cure diseases.” – This is a really significant part! Jesus was showing that he had a special gift for healing and helping people who were suffering. So, what’s the big picture? This verse tells us Jesus was setting up a team of people to be agents of good. He wasn't just teaching people about God; he was actively doing something – stopping sickness and offering comfort to those in need. It sets the stage for his ministry to become much bigger, focusing on healing and helping people. Important Note: This passage is a little bit mysterious, and there’s a lot of interpretation around it. It's not just about literal devils; it’s about Jesus’ ability to overcome negativity and suffering in the world. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: More about why Jesus chose these twelve disciples? What does "power and authority" mean in this context?