Luke 11:23

KJV

He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.

KJV (with Strong's)

He that is {G5607} not {G3361} with {G3326} me {G1700} is {G2076} against {G2596} me {G1700}: and {G2532} he that gathereth {G4863} not {G3361} with {G3326} me {G1700} scattereth {G4650}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Those who are not with me are against me, and those who do not gather with me are scattering.

Berean Standard Bible

He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters.

American Standard Version

He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 11:23 delivers a profound and uncompromising declaration from Jesus Christ, asserting that in the spiritual conflict between God's kingdom and the forces of evil, there is no possibility of neutrality. One's position is inherently binary: either actively aligned with Christ and His unifying, redemptive mission, or implicitly opposing Him, thereby contributing to spiritual fragmentation and dispersion. This statement underscores the critical importance of decisive allegiance and participation in the advancement of God's purposes.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This potent declaration by Jesus immediately follows a significant confrontation with His detractors concerning His authority and the source of His power. In the preceding verses, Jesus had just performed a remarkable miracle, casting out a demon from a mute man, which left the crowds astonished ([Luke 11:14](/luke/11-14 "Luke 11:14 - Jesus Casts Out a Demon")). However, instead of glorifying God, some of His critics, particularly the Pharisees, maliciously accused Him of performing this exorcism by the power of Beelzebul, the "prince of demons" ([Luke 11:15](/luke/11-15 "Luke 11:15 - The Accusation of Beelzebul")). Jesus masterfully refutes their illogical and self-defeating argument by explaining that any kingdom or house divided against itself cannot stand, implying that Satan would not cast out Satan ([Luke 11:17-18](/luke/11-17-18 "Luke 11:17-18 - A Kingdom Divided")). He then challenges them with the question of whose power their own exorcists use ([Luke 11:19](/luke/11-19 "Luke 11:19 - Jesus' Counter-Argument")), and declares that His ability to cast out demons is proof that the "kingdom of God is come upon you" ([Luke 11:20](/luke/11-20 "Luke 11:20 - The Kingdom of God Has Come")). He further illustrates His victory over Satan with the parable of the strong man guarding his palace, who is overcome by one stronger ([Luke 11:21-22](/luke/11-21-22 "Luke 11:21-22 - The Strong Man Parable")). Luke 11:23 serves as the climactic summary and application of this entire argument, emphasizing the absolute necessity of choosing sides in this spiritual conflict.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Jewish society, the concept of spiritual forces, both divine and demonic, was deeply ingrained. Exorcism was recognized, though rare, and was often associated with prophetic or divine authority. Jesus' ability to cast out demons was a powerful sign, but the accusation of using demonic power (Beelzebul, a derogatory term for Baal-zebub, a Philistine deity, or "lord of the flies") was a grave charge designed to discredit Him entirely. This accusation reflected the intense spiritual and political tensions of the time, as religious leaders struggled to categorize and control Jesus' burgeoning influence. The Jewish people were also familiar with the idea of "gathering" (e.g., gathering the dispersed tribes of Israel, or gathering people to God) and "scattering" (e.g., dispersion due to sin or judgment). Jesus' statement taps into these familiar concepts, applying them to the spiritual allegiance demanded by His arrival and the dawning of God's kingdom. His words also echo the prophetic calls for Israel to choose between God and idols, reinforcing the idea that spiritual life necessitates a clear, undivided commitment.
* **Key Themes:** The verse [Luke 11:23](/luke/11-23 "Luke 11:23 - No Neutrality") contributes significantly to several major themes present in Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully asserts the theme of **No Neutrality** in the spiritual realm. Jesus makes it unequivocally clear that there is no middle ground in one's relationship with Him and His kingdom; one is either actively for Him or implicitly against Him. This theme resonates with other biblical calls to decisive commitment, such as the choice presented in [Joshua 24:15](/joshua/24-15 "Joshua 24:15 - Choose Whom You Will Serve"). Secondly, it highlights the ongoing reality of **Spiritual Warfare**. Jesus' confrontation with the accusation of Beelzebul and His subsequent declaration underscore that a cosmic battle is underway between the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness. Every individual is, by their actions or inactions, participating on one side or the other. Thirdly, the verse emphasizes the nature of **Kingdom Building vs. Scattering**. Being "with" Christ means contributing to the "gathering" of souls into God's kingdom, fostering unity, and advancing His redemptive purposes. Conversely, being "against" Him, or failing to gather, results in "scattering" – disunity, fragmentation, and hindering the divine work. This concept is central to Jesus' mission to bring together His sheep ([John 10:16](/john/10-16 "John 10:16 - Jesus Gathers His Sheep")). Finally, the verse speaks to the theme of **Absolute Allegiance**. Jesus demands total commitment, implying that true discipleship involves active participation and alignment with His person and mission, rather than passive observation or half-hearted devotion, a concept further explored in passages like [Luke 9:23](/luke/9-23 "Luke 9:23 - Take Up Your Cross").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **not (Greek, _mḗ'_):** This is a particle of qualified negation, indicating a subjective or conditional denial, often implying that something is contrary to expectation or desire. Unlike *ou* (οὐ), which expresses an absolute, objective denial, *mḗ* suggests a negation based on a particular condition or perspective. In this context, it underscores that a *failure* to be with Jesus, rather than an explicit declaration of opposition, still results in being against Him.
* **with (Greek, _metá'_):** This preposition denotes accompaniment, being alongside, or in cooperation. It signifies a close association, partnership, or shared purpose. When Jesus says "with me," He is not merely referring to physical proximity but to a deeper spiritual and volitional alignment, implying active participation in His mission and identification with His cause.
* **scattereth (Greek, _skorpízō'_):):** This verb means "to disperse, scatter, squander, or put to flight." It carries the connotation of breaking apart, causing disunity, or hindering a collective effort. In contrast to "gathering," which builds up and unites, "scattering" implies destruction, fragmentation, and opposition to the cohesive work of God's kingdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that is not with me is against me:"** This clause establishes the fundamental dichotomy. Jesus presents an either/or scenario, eliminating the possibility of neutrality in one's spiritual stance towards Him. To be "not with" Him is not merely passive disinterest but an active state of opposition. This implies that even a lack of explicit allegiance or active participation in His work is, by default, counted as being in opposition to His divine purposes.
* **"and he that gathereth not with me scattereth."** This second clause functions as a parallel reinforcement and practical illustration of the first. "Gathering" refers to the work of building God's kingdom, bringing people into relationship with Him, and fostering spiritual unity. If one is not actively involved in this "gathering" work alongside Christ, their inaction or misdirected efforts inevitably lead to "scattering" – causing disunity, hindering the spread of the Gospel, or dispersing the flock. It emphasizes that spiritual work is inherently active; there is no neutral ground where one's actions (or inactions) do not have a profound impact on the advancement or hindrance of God's kingdom.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 11:23 is a masterclass in concise and impactful rhetoric, primarily employing **Antithesis** and **Parallelism**. The entire verse is structured as a powerful antithesis, presenting two starkly contrasting options: "with me" versus "against me," and "gathereth" versus "scattereth." This direct opposition highlights the absolute nature of the choice Jesus presents, leaving no room for ambiguity or a middle ground. Complementing this, the verse utilizes **Synonymous Parallelism** in its two clauses. The second clause ("he that gathereth not with me scattereth") echoes and reinforces the meaning of the first clause ("He that is not with me is against me"), providing a practical, active illustration of the principle of non-neutrality. The act of "not gathering" is equated with the act of "scattering," just as "not being with" is equated with "being against." This parallelism strengthens the overall message, making it more memorable and emphatic. Furthermore, the use of **Metaphor** is evident in "gathering" and "scattering," which serve as powerful images for building up the Kingdom of God and causing disunity or hindering its progress, respectively.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 11:23 stands as a foundational statement on the nature of allegiance to Christ and the reality of the spiritual realm. It dismantles the illusion of spiritual neutrality, asserting that every individual, by their choices and actions (or inactions), is positioned either in alignment with God's redemptive work or in opposition to it. This truth is deeply theological, revealing Jesus' self-understanding as the central figure around whom all spiritual reality coalesces. His mission is one of gathering and unifying, bringing humanity back into relationship with God, and establishing His kingdom. Therefore, any force or individual not actively participating in this divine "gathering" inherently contributes to "scattering," which is the work of the adversary. This verse underscores the active, dynamic nature of faith and discipleship, calling believers to a decisive and engaged commitment rather than passive observation.

* [Matthew 12:30](/matthew/12-30 "Matthew 12:30 - Parallel Passage on Allegiance")
* [Joshua 24:15](/joshua/24-15 "Joshua 24:15 - Choose Whom You Will Serve")
* [Revelation 3:15-16](/revelation/3-15-16 "Revelation 3:15-16 - The Danger of Lukewarmness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 11:23 serves as a profound and enduring challenge to every individual, particularly those who claim to follow Christ. It compels us to move beyond passive assent to an active, intentional alignment with Jesus' mission and values. In a world that often encourages compromise, ambiguity, or a "live and let live" spiritual ethos, Jesus' words cut through the noise, demanding a clear and decisive stance. This verse calls us to examine our priorities, our use of time and resources, and our ultimate allegiances. Are we genuinely contributing to the "gathering" work of the Kingdom—through evangelism, discipleship, unity within the church, and acts of love and justice—or are our lives, perhaps inadvertently, contributing to "scattering" through division, indifference, or preoccupation with self? It reminds us that our faith is not merely a private conviction but a public, active participation in the cosmic struggle between light and darkness. True discipleship is characterized by a wholehearted commitment that seeks to advance Christ's purposes in every sphere of life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life might I be attempting to remain "neutral" when Jesus calls for active allegiance?**
* **How do my daily actions, choices, and words contribute to "gathering" people towards Christ and His kingdom, or inadvertently "scattering" them away?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to more intentionally align myself "with" Christ and participate in His mission of gathering?**
* **How does this verse challenge any tendency towards spiritual apathy or lukewarmness in my own faith journey?**

### FAQ
**Does Luke 11:23 mean that anyone who is not an explicit Christian is actively evil or an enemy of God?**

Answer: While the verse is stark, it's crucial to understand it within its immediate context and broader biblical theology. Jesus is primarily addressing those who witnessed His power and authority, specifically His opponents who attributed His divine work to demonic forces. He is emphasizing that in the spiritual battle for souls and the establishment of God's kingdom, there is no middle ground; one's actions either contribute to His work of "gathering" or to the "scattering" that opposes it. It speaks to allegiance in the face of the Kingdom's advance. It doesn't necessarily label every non-believer as an "active enemy" in a personal sense, but rather highlights the objective reality that any force or individual not actively participating in God's redemptive "gathering" work is, by default, contributing to the forces of disunity and opposition to His kingdom. The call to repentance and faith remains open to all, inviting them to move from "not with" to "with" Christ.

**Is it truly impossible to be neutral in spiritual matters, or can someone simply be indifferent?**

Answer: According to Jesus' declaration in [Luke 11:23](/luke/11-23 "Luke 11:23 - No Neutrality"), spiritual neutrality is an illusion. The very act of indifference or inaction in the face of Christ's mission is itself a form of non-alignment that contributes to "scattering." The Kingdom of God is not a passive entity; it is actively advancing, and Jesus is actively "gathering." To not participate in this gathering is to allow the forces of dispersion to prevail. This principle is echoed throughout scripture, such as in [Matthew 6:24](/matthew/6-24 "Matthew 6:24 - No One Can Serve Two Masters"), where Jesus states that "No man can serve two masters," implying that a choice, even if unacknowledged, is always being made. Our lives, by their very nature, either align with God's purposes or they do not, and there are spiritual consequences to both.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 11:23, while a direct challenge to His immediate audience, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ Himself. Jesus is the quintessential "Gatherer," the one sent by the Father to "gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad" ([John 11:52](/john/11-52 "John 11:52 - Jesus Gathers the Scattered Children of God")). His entire ministry, from calling disciples to teaching the crowds and healing the sick, was an act of gathering people into the Kingdom of God. He is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep, intending to bring them all into one fold ([John 10:16](/john/10-16 "John 10:16 - Jesus Gathers His Sheep")). The "scattering" that Jesus speaks against is the result of sin and the work of the adversary, which divides humanity from God and from one another. Christ's death on the cross and His resurrection are the ultimate acts of "gathering," reconciling all things to Himself, whether on earth or in heaven ([Colossians 1:19-20](/colossians/1-19-20 "Colossians 1:19-20 - Reconciliation Through Christ")). Through His atoning sacrifice, He defeated the strong man (Satan) and plundered his domain, establishing a new covenant that unites believers from every tribe and nation. Therefore, to be "with" Christ is to be united to the One who has already accomplished the decisive victory over scattering and is actively building His church, the very embodiment of His ongoing gathering work ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Church Built on Christ")). Our allegiance to Him is not merely a moral choice but a participation in His cosmic mission of redemption and unification.

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.

Cross-References

Matthew 12:30

He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.

Luke 9:50

And Jesus said unto him, Forbid [him] not: for he that is not against us is for us.

Mark 9:40

For he that is not against us is on our part.

Revelation 3:15

I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.

Revelation 3:16

So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.