New International VersionWhen the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?”
New Living TranslationWhen James and John saw this, they said to Jesus, “Lord, should we call down fire from heaven to burn them up?”
English Standard VersionAnd when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, “Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?”
Berean Standard BibleWhen the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, “Lord, do You want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?”
Berean Literal BibleAnd the disciples James and John having seen it, said, "Lord, will You that we should call fire to come down from heaven and to consume them?"
King James BibleAnd when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?
New King James VersionAnd when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?”
New American Standard BibleWhen His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?”
NASB 1995When His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?”
NASB 1977And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?”
Legacy Standard BibleAnd when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?”
Amplified BibleWhen His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and destroy them?”
Christian Standard BibleWhen the disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them? ”
Holman Christian Standard BibleWhen the disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?”
American Standard VersionAnd when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we bid fire to come down from heaven, and consume them?
Contemporary English VersionWhen the disciples James and John saw what was happening, they asked, "Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to destroy these people?"
English Revised VersionAnd when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we bid fire to come down from heaven, and consume them?
GOD'S WORD® TranslationJames and John, his disciples, saw this. They asked, "Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to burn them up?"
Good News TranslationWhen the disciples James and John saw this, they said, "Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?"
International Standard VersionWhen his disciples James and John observed this rejection, they asked, "Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?"
NET BibleNow when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, "Lord, do you want us to call fire to come down from heaven and consume them?"
New Heart English BibleWhen his disciples, James and John, saw this, they said, "Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from the sky, and consume them?"
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elijah did?
Weymouth New TestamentWhen the disciples James and John saw this, they said, "Master, do you wish us to order fire to come down from Heaven and consume them?" Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleWhen His disciples James and John saw this, they asked, “Lord, do You want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them, just as Elijah did?”
World English BibleWhen his disciples, James and John, saw this, they said, “Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from the sky and destroy them, just as Elijah did?” Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd His disciples James and John having seen, said, “Lord, will You [that] we may command fire to come down from Heaven, and to consume them, as Elijah also did?”
Berean Literal BibleAnd the disciples James and John having seen it, said, "Lord, will You that we should call fire to come down from heaven and to consume them?"
Young's Literal Translation And his disciples James and John having seen, said, 'Sir, wilt thou that we may command fire to come down from the heaven, and to consume them, as also Elijah did?'
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd his disciples James and John having seen, said, O Lord, wilt thou that we should speak fire to come down from heaven, and destroy them, as also did Elias? Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd when his disciples James and John had seen this, they said: Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them?
Catholic Public Domain VersionAnd when his disciples, James and John, had seen this, they said, “Lord, do you want us to call for fire to descend from heaven and consume them?”
New American BibleWhen the disciples James and John saw this they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?”
New Revised Standard VersionWhen his disciples James and John saw it, they said, “Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleWhen his disciples James and John saw it, they said to him, Our Lord, would you be willing that we command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishAnd when Yaqob and Yohannan his disciples saw it, they were saying to him, “Our Lord, do you want us to speak and fire will descend from Heaven, and will consume them as Elijah also did?” NT Translations Anderson New TestamentAnd when his disciples James and John saw this, they said: Lord, is it thy will that we command fire to come down from heaven and destroy them, even as Elijah did?
Godbey New TestamentAnd the disciples James and John, seeing, said, Lord, do you wish that we may command fire to descend from heaven and consume them?
Haweis New TestamentAnd when the disciples James and John saw it, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven and destroy them, just as Elias did?
Mace New Testamenthis disciples James and John observing this, said, Lord, shall we command fire to descend from heaven, as Elias did, in order to consume them?
Weymouth New TestamentWhen the disciples James and John saw this, they said, "Master, do you wish us to order fire to come down from Heaven and consume them?"
Worrell New TestamentAnd, seeing it, His disciples, James and John, said, "Lord, dost Thou wish that we bid fire come down from heaven, and consume them?"
Worsley New TestamentAnd when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, as Elias did?
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context The Samaritans Reject Jesus… 53But the people there refused to welcome Him, because He was heading for Jerusalem. 54WhenthedisciplesJamesandJohnsaw this,they asked,“Lord,do You wantus to calldownfirefromheavento consumethem?”55But Jesus turned and rebuked them.…
Cross References 2 Kings 1:10-12Elijah answered the captain, “If I am a man of God, may fire come down from heaven and consume you and your fifty men.” And fire came down from heaven and consumed the captain and his fifty men. / So the king sent to Elijah another captain with his fifty men. And the captain said to Elijah, “Man of God, the king declares, ‘Come down at once!’” / Again Elijah replied, “If I am a man of God, may fire come down from heaven and consume you and your fifty men.” And the fire of God came down from heaven and consumed the captain and his fifty men.
Matthew 5:44But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
Romans 12:19-21Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” / On the contrary, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head.” / Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
James 1:20for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires.
John 18:10-11Then Simon Peter drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus. / “Put your sword back in its sheath!” Jesus said to Peter. “Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given Me?”
Matthew 26:52-54“Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him. “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword. / Are you not aware that I can call on My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels? / But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen this way?”
1 Peter 3:9Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
Proverbs 25:21-22If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. / For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you.
1 Samuel 24:12May the LORD judge between you and me, and may the LORD take vengeance on you, but my hand will never be against you.
1 Samuel 26:9-11But David said to Abishai, “Do not destroy him, for who can extend a hand against the LORD’s anointed and be guiltless?” / David added, “As surely as the LORD lives, the LORD Himself will strike him down; either his day will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. / But the LORD forbid that I should extend my hand against the LORD’s anointed. Instead, take the spear and water jug by his head, and let us go.”
Matthew 20:24-28When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers. / But Jesus called them aside and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. / It shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, ...
Mark 10:41-45When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. / So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. / But it shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, ...
Luke 6:27-29But to those of you who will listen, I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, / bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. / If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone takes your cloak, do not withhold your tunic as well.
Luke 23:34Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up His garments by casting lots.
Acts 7:59-60While they were stoning him, Stephen appealed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” / Falling on his knees, he cried out in a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Treasury of Scripture And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, will you that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? wilt. 2 Samuel 21:2 And the king called the Gibeonites, and said unto them; (now the Gibeoniteswere not of the children of Israel, but of the remnant of the Amorites; and the children of Israel had sworn unto them: and Saul sought to slay them in his zeal to the children of Israel and Judah.) 2 Kings 10:16,31 And he said, Come with me, and see my zeal for the LORD. So they made him ride in his chariot… James 1:19,20 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: … fire. 2 Kings 1:10-14 And Elijah answered and said to the captain of fifty, If Ibe a man of God, then let fire come down from heaven, and consume thee and thy fifty. And there came down fire from heaven, and consumed him and his fifty… Acts 4:29,30 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, … Revelation 13:3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast. Jump to Previous BidCommandConsumeDestroyDisciplesEliasElijahEndFireHeavenJamesJohnMasterOrderSirSkySpeakWantWiltWishJump to Next BidCommandConsumeDestroyDisciplesEliasElijahEndFireHeavenJamesJohnMasterOrderSirSkySpeakWantWiltWishLuke 9 1.Jesus sends his apostles to work miracles, and to preach.7.Herod desires to see Jesus.10.The apostles return.12.Jesus feeds five thousand;18.inquires what opinion the world had of him; foretells his passion;23.proposes to all the pattern of his patience.28.The transfiguration.37.He heals the lunatic;43.again forewarns his disciples of his passion;46.commends humility;51.bids them to show mildness toward all, without desire of revenge.57.Many would follow him, but upon conditions.When the disciples James and John saw this,James and John, known as the "Sons of Thunder" ( Mark 3:17), were part of Jesus' inner circle. Their nickname reflects their zealous and fiery nature, which is evident in this passage. The context here is Jesus' journey to Jerusalem, passing through a Samaritan village that did not welcome Him ( Luke 9:51-53). The tension between Jews and Samaritans was longstanding, rooted in historical and religious differences dating back to the Assyrian conquest and the subsequent intermarriage of Israelites with foreigners ( 2 Kings 17:24-41). they asked,
The disciples' question reveals their misunderstanding of Jesus' mission at this point. They were still learning the nature of Jesus' kingdom, which was not one of earthly power or retribution but of love and forgiveness. This moment is a teaching opportunity for Jesus, highlighting the contrast between human impulses and divine purpose. “Lord, do You want us to call down fire from heaven
The reference to calling down fire from heaven echoes the actions of the prophet Elijah, who called down fire on the soldiers of King Ahaziah (2 Kings 1:10-12). This allusion suggests that James and John saw themselves as continuing the prophetic tradition, wielding divine power against opposition. However, Jesus' response to their request underscores a new covenant approach, emphasizing mercy over judgment. to consume them?”
The desire to consume the Samaritans with fire reflects a common expectation of the Messiah as a conquering figure who would vanquish His enemies. This expectation was prevalent among Jews of the time, who anticipated a political and military leader. Jesus, however, came to save, not to destroy (John 3:17). His rebuke of James and John (in the following verse) aligns with His teachings on loving one's enemies and turning the other cheek (Matthew 5:39, 44). This incident foreshadows the inclusive nature of the Gospel, which would later be preached in Samaria (Acts 8:5-25), demonstrating the transformative power of Christ's message. Persons / Places / Events 1. James and JohnKnown as the "Sons of Thunder," these two disciples of Jesus are known for their zealous and sometimes impulsive nature. In this passage, they ask Jesus if they should call down fire from heaven to destroy a Samaritan village that did not welcome them. 2. JesusThe central figure of the New Testament, Jesus is traveling with His disciples through Samaria on His way to Jerusalem. His response to James and John highlights His mission of mercy and grace. 3. Samaritan VillageThe village in Samaria that did not receive Jesus and His disciples. The Samaritans and Jews had a long-standing enmity, which provides context for the disciples' reaction. 4. SamariaA region between Judea and Galilee, inhabited by Samaritans who were often at odds with the Jewish people due to historical and religious differences. 5. ElijahAn Old Testament prophet referenced indirectly by James and John, who once called down fire from heaven in a display of God's power and judgment. Teaching Points Zeal Without KnowledgeJames and John's zeal for Jesus is commendable, but their lack of understanding about His mission of grace and mercy leads them to a misguided request. We must align our zeal with the teachings of Christ. Responding with GraceJesus' rebuke of James and John teaches us to respond to rejection and hostility with grace and patience, rather than seeking vengeance. Understanding Jesus' MissionJesus came not to destroy but to save. As His followers, we are called to embody His mission of reconciliation and love, even towards those who oppose us. Cultural and Historical ContextUnderstanding the historical enmity between Jews and Samaritans helps us appreciate the radical nature of Jesus' teachings on love and acceptance. Learning from MistakesThe disciples' error serves as a reminder that even those closest to Jesus can misunderstand His teachings. We should remain humble and open to correction. Lists and Questions Top 10 Lessons from Luke 9
What is the plot of Sons of Thunder?
Is Christianity historically associated with violence?
Who was James the Apostle in Christian tradition?
Did Herod think that Jesus was John the Baptist? Yes (Matthew 14:2; Mark 6:16) No (Luke 9:9)(54) When his disciples James and John saw this.--The burning zeal of the sons of Zebedee, more fiery even than that of Peter, was eminently characteristic of those whom our Lord had named as the Sons of Thunder ( Mark 3:17). Their anger was probably heightened by the contrast with His former reception in a city of the same people ( John 4:40-41), and by the feeling that what seemed to them an act of marvellous condescension was thus rudely repelled. Did not such a people deserve a punishment like that which Elijah had inflicted on the messengers of Ahaziah ( 2Kings 1:10; 2Kings 1:12; 2Kings 1:14)? The latter words, "as Elias did," are, however, wanting in some of the best MSS. Verse 54. - And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? The natural fiery temper and burning zeal of these highly favoured and loved brethren - who, we know, received, perhaps in half-playful rebuke from their Master, the epithet Boanerges, sons of thunder-flamed forth at this insult offered to their adored Master in return for his tender, loving consideration for this hated people. Possibly, what these two had lately witnessed on the Transfiguration mount had deepened their veneration for their Lord, and caused them the more bitterly to resent an insult levelled at him. So they prayed him - him whom they had so lately seen radiant with the awful fire of heaven - prayed him to call that fire down, and so wither in a moment those impious despisers of his gracious goodness. The words, "even as Elias did," form a very appropriate historical instance, but they are of doubtful authenticity - the older authorities have them not.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek Whenδὲ(de)Conjunction
Strong's 1161:A primary particle; but, and, etc.theοἱ(hoi)Article - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.disciplesμαθηταὶ(mathētai)Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3101:A learner, disciple, pupil. From manthano; a learner, i.e. Pupil.JamesἸάκωβος(Iakōbos)Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2385:The same as Iakob Graecized; Jacobus, the name of three Israelites.andκαὶ(kai)Conjunction
Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.JohnἸωάννης(Iōannēs)Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2491:Of Hebrew origin; Joannes, the name of four Israelites.saw [this],Ἰδόντες(Idontes)Verb - Aorist Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3708:Properly, to stare at, i.e. to discern clearly; by extension, to attend to; by Hebraism, to experience; passively, to appear.they asked,εἶπαν(eipan)Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 2036:Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.“Lord,Κύριε(Kyrie)Noun - Vocative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2962:Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.do You wantθέλεις(theleis)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 2309:To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design.us to callεἴπωμεν(eipōmen)Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Plural
Strong's 2036:Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.downκαταβῆναι(katabēnai)Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active
Strong's 2597:To go down, come down, either from the sky or from higher land, descend. From kata and the base of basis; to descend.fireπῦρ(pyr)Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 4442:Fire; the heat of the sun, lightning; fig: strife, trials; the eternal fire. A primary word; 'fire'.fromἀπὸ(apo)Preposition
Strong's 575:From, away from. A primary particle; 'off, ' i.e. Away, in various senses.heavenοὐρανοῦ(ouranou)Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 3772:Perhaps from the same as oros; the sky; by extension, heaven; by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the Gospel.to consumeἀναλῶσαι(analōsai)Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active
Strong's 355:From ana and a form of the alternate of haireomai; properly, to use up, i.e. Destroy.them?”αὐτούς(autous)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 846:He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.
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NT Gospels: Luke 9:54 When his disciples James and John saw (Luke Lu Lk) |
