Luke 9:40

I begged Your disciples to drive it out, but they were unable."

Study Bible

I begged Your disciples to drive it out, but they were unable
I begged
The Greek word used here is "ἐδεήθην" (edeēthēn), which conveys a sense of earnest pleading or supplication. This word reflects the desperation and urgency of the father's request. In the context of the Gospels, it often denotes a deep, heartfelt appeal to Jesus or His followers for help. This plea underscores the father's faith in Jesus' power, even when faced with the disciples' inability to help. It reminds us of the importance of approaching God with humility and sincerity in our prayers, trusting in His ability to intervene in our lives.

Your disciples
The term "disciples" refers to the followers of Jesus, specifically the twelve apostles who were chosen and commissioned by Him. In the historical context, these men were given authority by Jesus to cast out demons and heal the sick (Luke 9:1-2). However, their inability in this instance highlights their human limitations and the necessity of faith and reliance on God's power. This serves as a reminder that even those closest to Jesus can struggle and fail, emphasizing the need for continual dependence on Christ.

to drive it out
The phrase "to drive it out" refers to the act of exorcism, the expulsion of a demon or evil spirit. The Greek word "ἐκβάλλω" (ekballō) is used, meaning to cast out or expel. This action was a significant part of Jesus' ministry, demonstrating His authority over the spiritual realm. The disciples' failure to perform this act in this instance points to a lack of faith or understanding, as Jesus later explains. It serves as a lesson on the necessity of spiritual preparedness and faith in God's power to overcome evil.

but they were unable
The phrase "they were unable" highlights the disciples' failure in this situation. The Greek word "ἠδυνήθησαν" (ēdynēthēsan) indicates a lack of power or ability. This failure is not due to a lack of authority, as Jesus had already given them power over demons, but rather a lack of faith or spiritual readiness. This moment serves as a teaching point for the disciples and for us, illustrating that spiritual authority and success in ministry are dependent on faith and reliance on God, not merely on human effort or past successes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
- The central figure in the Gospel of Luke, who is approached by a man seeking help for his demon-possessed son.

2. The Disciples
- Followers of Jesus who were unable to cast out the demon from the man's son, highlighting their lack of faith or understanding at this moment.

3. The Man/Father
- A desperate father who seeks Jesus' help after the disciples fail to heal his son.

4. The Demon-Possessed Son
- The boy afflicted by a demon, causing great distress to him and his father.

5. The Crowd
- A group of people witnessing the event, often representing the general public's reaction to Jesus' miracles and teachings.

Teaching Points

Faith and Authority in Christ
The disciples' inability to cast out the demon highlights the necessity of faith and understanding of the authority given by Christ. Believers must rely on Jesus' power, not their own.

The Role of Prayer
Jesus later explains that certain spiritual battles require prayer. This teaches us the importance of a prayerful life in overcoming challenges and spiritual warfare.

Dependence on Jesus
The father's plea to Jesus after the disciples' failure reminds us that our ultimate dependence should be on Christ, who has the power to intervene in our lives.

Growth in Spiritual Maturity
The disciples' experience serves as a lesson in spiritual growth. Believers are encouraged to learn from their failures and seek a deeper relationship with Christ.

Compassion and Intercession
The father's desperation for his son's healing reflects the compassion and intercession we should have for others, bringing their needs before Jesus.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does this passage teach us about the importance of faith when facing spiritual challenges?

2. How can we apply the lesson of prayer from this event to our daily lives?

3. In what ways does this account encourage us to depend on Jesus rather than our own abilities?

4. How can we grow in spiritual maturity from the disciples' experience in this passage?

5. What practical steps can we take to intercede for others in need, following the example of the father in this account?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 17:14-20
and Mark 9:14-29
provide parallel accounts of this event, offering additional details such as Jesus' emphasis on faith and prayer.

Acts 19:13-16
illustrates the importance of genuine faith and authority in Christ when dealing with spiritual matters, as seen in the account of the sons of Sceva.

James 5:16
emphasizes the power of prayer, which is a key element in understanding why the disciples were unable to cast out the demon.