Luke 10:20

Bible Versions

Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

Notwithstanding {G4133} in {G1722} this {G5129} rejoice {G5463} not {G3361}, that {G3754} the spirits {G4151} are subject {G5293} unto you {G5213}; but {G1161} rather {G3123} rejoice {G5463}, because {G3754} your {G5216} names {G3686} are written {G1125} in {G1722} heaven {G3772}.

Nevertheless, don’t be glad that the spirits submit to you; be glad that your names have been recorded in heaven.”

Nevertheless, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

Nevertheless in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.

Commentary on Luke 10:20 (KJV)

Luke 10:20 captures a pivotal teaching moment from Jesus, redirecting His disciples' focus from their impressive spiritual achievements to the profound reality of their salvation. This verse comes immediately after the return of the seventy (or seventy-two) disciples whom Jesus had sent out with authority to preach, heal, and cast out demons. They returned with great joy, exclaiming, "Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name."

Context

Following their successful mission, where they experienced tangible power over evil spirits, the disciples were understandably exuberant. Jesus had given them authority (Luke 10:19), and they saw immediate, miraculous results. However, Jesus, with His profound insight, saw the potential for their joy to be misdirected—placing emphasis on the power they wielded rather than on the Giver of that power and the greater gift of eternal life.

Key Themes and Messages

The True Source of Joy: Jesus clarifies that while spiritual power and successful ministry are notable, they are not the ultimate cause for rejoicing. The highest joy is found in one's personal relationship with God and the assurance of eternal salvation.
Eternal Perspective Over Temporal Achievements: The ability to cast out demons was a powerful, but temporary, manifestation of God's kingdom. Being "written in heaven" points to an eternal, unchangeable reality—a secure place in God's heavenly kingdom, far surpassing any earthly or spiritual accomplishment.
Humility and Divine Grace: This verse serves as a crucial check against spiritual pride. It reminds believers that salvation is a gift of God's grace, not something earned by spiritual gifts or ministerial success. Our value and security come from God's sovereign choice, not from our own abilities or works.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "rejoice" in this verse is chairete, which implies a deep, abiding gladness. Jesus isn't forbidding all joy in their power, but rather prioritizing what should be the *supreme* source of their gladness. The phrase "your names are written in heaven" is a powerful idiom, reflecting an ancient practice of keeping registers or rolls of citizens. In a spiritual sense, it refers to the Book of Life, a divine record of those who belong to God's eternal kingdom. This concept is also found in other scriptures, such as Revelation 20:12 and Revelation 21:27, underscoring the certainty and permanence of God's salvation for His chosen ones.

Practical Application

For believers today, Luke 10:20 is a vital reminder to ground our joy and identity in Christ alone. We may experience spiritual gifts, success in ministry, or worldly achievements, but these should not be the foundation of our rejoicing. Our ultimate comfort and assurance come from knowing that through faith in Jesus, our names are eternally secure in God's heavenly register. This fosters humility, prevents spiritual arrogance, and directs our worship to the One who grants us this immeasurable gift of salvation, a gift far greater than any earthly power or accomplishment. It shifts our focus from what we can do for God to what God has already done for us.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Verse Lookup

Cross-References

Revelation 20:15

And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
Revelation 20:12

And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is [the book] of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.
Hebrews 12:23

To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,
Matthew 7:22

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
Matthew 7:23

And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Revelation 21:27

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither [whatsoever] worketh abomination, or [maketh] a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.
Revelation 3:5

He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.