Luke 4:14

KJV

¶ And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} Jesus {G2424} returned {G5290} in {G1722} the power {G1411} of the Spirit {G4151} into {G1519} Galilee {G1056}: and {G2532} there went out {G1831} a fame {G5345} of {G4012} him {G846} through {G2596} all {G3650} the region round about {G4066}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yeshua returned to the Galil in the power of the Spirit, and reports about him spread throughout the countryside.

Berean Standard Bible

Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and the news about Him spread throughout the surrounding region.

American Standard Version

And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and a fame went out concerning him through all the region round about.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 4:14 marks the pivotal transition from Jesus' wilderness temptation to the official commencement of His public ministry. Having triumphed over Satan, Jesus returns to Galilee, His home region, not merely geographically, but supernaturally empowered by the Holy Spirit. This divine enablement immediately results in His widespread renown, as reports of His authority and miraculous capabilities begin to spread throughout the surrounding area, setting the stage for His transformative work.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a crucial hinge in Luke's Gospel, immediately following Jesus' victorious forty-day period of fasting and temptation in the wilderness ([Luke 4:1-13](/luke/4-1-13 "Luke 4:1-13 - Jesus' Temptation in the Wilderness")). His return to Galilee signifies the end of His personal spiritual preparation and the beginning of His public mission. It directly precedes His inaugural sermon in Nazareth, where He declares His Spirit-anointed mission from [Isaiah 61:1-2](/isaiah/61-1-2 "Isaiah 61:1-2 - Prophecy of the Anointed One"), further emphasizing the theme of spiritual empowerment ([Luke 4:16-21](/luke/4-16-21 "Luke 4:16-21 - Jesus' Sermon in Nazareth")). The narrative flow highlights that Jesus' authority and effectiveness in ministry are a direct consequence of His triumph over temptation and His anointing by the Spirit.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Galilee, often referred to as "Galilee of the Gentiles" ([Isaiah 9:1](/isaiah/9-1 "Isaiah 9:1 - Prophecy of Galilee of the Gentiles")), was a northern region of Israel, culturally diverse due to its proximity to Gentile lands and trade routes. It was generally looked down upon by the religious elite in Jerusalem, who considered its inhabitants less pure in their adherence to Jewish law. However, it was Jesus' home base, and His decision to begin His ministry there, rather than in Judea, was significant. The rapid spread of "fame" (Greek: *phēmē*) was common in the ancient world, often through word-of-mouth, travelers, and local markets, demonstrating how quickly news, especially of extraordinary events or individuals, could travel within a connected region.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully introduces several foundational themes that will characterize Jesus' ministry in Luke's Gospel. Firstly, **Divine Empowerment** is paramount; Jesus' ministry is not merely human effort but is explicitly stated to be "in the power of the Spirit," underscoring the Holy Spirit's essential role in His life and mission, a theme introduced at His baptism ([Luke 3:21-22](/luke/3-21-22 "Luke 3:21-22 - Jesus' Baptism and the Spirit")). Secondly, it marks the **Launch of Public Ministry**, signaling the transition from preparation to active engagement. The "fame" that spreads highlights the theme of **Recognition and Anticipation**, as people begin to take notice of this remarkable figure. Finally, the geographical setting emphasizes **God's Work in Unexpected Places**, as the Messiah's ministry begins not in the religious center of Jerusalem but in the often-maligned region of Galilee, fulfilling prophetic expectations ([Matthew 4:15-16](/matthew/4-15-16 "Matthew 4:15-16 - Matthew's Quote of Isaiah 9:1-2")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **returned (Greek, _hypostréphō'_):** From G5290, meaning "to turn under (behind), i.e., to return (literally or figuratively)." This word signifies more than just a geographical movement; it marks a decisive re-entry. Jesus is not merely coming back to Galilee; He is returning with a new spiritual status and purpose, having successfully navigated the profound spiritual challenge of the wilderness.
* **power (Greek, _dýnamis'_):** From G1411, meaning "force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)." This term denotes inherent strength, ability, and effectiveness, often associated with supernatural or miraculous capabilities. It emphasizes that Jesus' subsequent actions and teachings would be characterized by divine authority and supernatural manifestation, not merely human skill or wisdom.
* **fame (Greek, _phḗmē'_):** From G5345, meaning "a saying, i.e., rumor ('fame')." This word describes the widespread report or renown that quickly spread about Jesus. It indicates that His presence, actions, or perhaps even the very aura surrounding Him, generated significant public interest and discussion, creating a buzz that preceded His formal teachings and miracles.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee:"** This clause establishes the central theological and narrative point. Jesus' return is not a simple geographical relocation but a Spirit-empowered re-entry. The phrase "in the power of the Spirit" is crucial, indicating that His subsequent ministry is divinely enabled and authorized, a direct result of His anointing at baptism and His victory over temptation. Galilee, His home region, becomes the initial stage for this Spirit-anointed work.
* **"and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about."** This second clause describes the immediate and widespread consequence of Jesus' Spirit-empowered presence. His "fame" or reputation rapidly spread throughout the entire surrounding region of Galilee. This indicates that His presence, perhaps marked by early teachings or unrecorded acts, immediately captured public attention, creating an eager audience and a fertile ground for His ministry to blossom.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 4:14 employs several **literary devices** to convey its profound message. It functions as a **Narrative Transition**, marking a distinct shift from Jesus' private preparation and spiritual warfare to His public ministry. The phrase "in the power of the Spirit" is a clear instance of **Divine Agency**, emphasizing that Jesus' authority and effectiveness are not inherent to His humanity alone but are supernaturally endowed by the Holy Spirit. The description of "fame" spreading "through all the region round about" utilizes **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis** to underscore the widespread and rapid nature of His renown, suggesting a pervasive impact that transcends mere local recognition. This widespread fame also serves as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the immense impact and widespread recognition Jesus will achieve throughout His ministry, drawing crowds and challenging established norms.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 4:14 is profoundly significant, establishing the foundational principle that Jesus' earthly ministry, though fully human, was entirely dependent on and empowered by the Holy Spirit. This truth sets a paradigm for all subsequent Spirit-empowered ministry within the Christian tradition. Just as Jesus' victory over temptation preceded His public anointing for service, it highlights that spiritual preparation and reliance on God's power are prerequisites for effective Kingdom work. His return to Galilee, a region often marginalized, also underscores God's willingness to work in unexpected places and through seemingly ordinary means to accomplish His extraordinary purposes. The immediate spread of His fame demonstrates the intrinsic attractiveness and undeniable impact of divine power and truth.

* [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power for Witnessing")
* [John 3:34](/john/3-34 "John 3:34 - God Gives the Spirit Without Limit")
* [Isaiah 61:1](/isaiah/61-1 "Isaiah 61:1 - The Spirit of the Lord is Upon Me")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 4:14 offers a powerful model for every believer and for the Church today. Just as Jesus, the Son of God, relied entirely on the Holy Spirit for His ministry, we too must recognize that true spiritual effectiveness flows not from human strength, charisma, or strategic planning alone, but from being "in the power of the Spirit." This verse challenges us to prioritize spiritual preparation, including wrestling with temptations and seeking intimacy with God, before embarking on service. It reminds us that our "fame" or influence should not be sought for personal glory, but should be a natural outflow of God's power working through us, drawing attention to Him. When we genuinely live and serve in the Spirit's power, our lives and ministries will naturally generate a compelling witness that impacts our "region round about," much like Jesus' initial impact in Galilee.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry do you feel you are relying more on your own strength than on the power of the Spirit?**
* **How does Jesus' example of spiritual preparation (temptation in the wilderness) before public ministry inform your own approach to service?**
* **What does it mean for your daily life to "return in the power of the Spirit," and how might that manifest in your interactions and work?**

### FAQ
**What does "in the power of the Spirit" mean for Jesus' ministry?**

Answer: The phrase "in the power of the Spirit" (Greek: *dýnamis tou Pneúmatos*) signifies that Jesus' entire public ministry was not merely a demonstration of human capabilities or wisdom, but was supernaturally enabled and directed by the Holy Spirit. This power refers to inherent strength, miraculous ability, and divine authority. It means that His teachings carried divine weight, His healings were true miracles, and His actions were backed by the very power of God. This divine empowerment was a direct result of His anointing at baptism ([Luke 3:21-22](/luke/3-21-22 "Luke 3:21-22 - Jesus' Baptism and the Spirit")) and His triumph over temptation in the wilderness, establishing His qualifications as the Messiah.

**Why is Galilee significant as the starting point for Jesus' ministry?**

Answer: Galilee, a region in northern Israel, was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it was Jesus' home territory, fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would arise from this region, often called "Galilee of the Gentiles" ([Isaiah 9:1-2](/isaiah/9-1-2 "Isaiah 9:1-2 - Prophecy of Galilee of the Gentiles"), quoted in [Matthew 4:15-16](/matthew/4-15-16 "Matthew 4:15-16 - Matthew's Quote of Isaiah 9:1-2")). While often looked down upon by the religious elite in Judea, its diverse population and less rigid religious atmosphere made it fertile ground for Jesus' inclusive message. Starting in Galilee demonstrated that God's salvation was not limited to the religious establishment in Jerusalem but extended to all, including those on the periphery. It also allowed Jesus to build a strong base of disciples before confronting the religious authorities in Jerusalem.

**How did Jesus' "fame" spread so quickly throughout the region?**

Answer: In the ancient world, news traveled rapidly through word-of-mouth, especially concerning extraordinary individuals or events. Jesus' "fame" (Greek: *phḗmē*, meaning a report or rumor) likely spread through various channels: people returning from the Jordan where John the Baptist was baptizing and where Jesus was baptized, early disciples sharing their experiences, and perhaps initial acts of teaching or healing that, though not explicitly detailed here, would have been remarkable. The combination of His unique presence, His recent triumph over temptation, and the divine power emanating from Him would have created an undeniable buzz. People would have discussed Him in synagogues, markets, and homes, leading to widespread anticipation and curiosity before His more formal public declarations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 4:14 is a profound Christ-centered statement, revealing Jesus as the Spirit-anointed Messiah, fully equipped for His redemptive mission. His "return in the power of the Spirit" directly fulfills Old Testament prophecies of the coming Servant and King who would be endowed with the Spirit of the Lord ([Isaiah 11:2](/isaiah/11-2 "Isaiah 11:2 - Spirit of the Lord on the Messiah"), [Isaiah 42:1](/isaiah/42-1 "Isaiah 42:1 - My Chosen One, in Whom My Soul Delights"), [Isaiah 61:1](/isaiah/61-1 "Isaiah 61:1 - The Spirit of the Lord is Upon Me")). This verse underscores that Jesus' entire ministry – His authoritative teaching, miraculous healings, and ultimately His atoning death and resurrection – was not merely human effort but the manifestation of God's own power working through Him. He is the ultimate example of a life lived in perfect obedience and dependence on the Spirit, demonstrating what it means for humanity to be fully restored to God's image. His fame, spreading throughout Galilee, foreshadows the global renown He would achieve as the Savior of the world, drawing all people to Himself through the power of His Spirit-empowered gospel ([John 12:32](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - Jesus Will Draw All People to Himself"), [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Be My Witnesses")).

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

Acts 10:37

That word, [I say], ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;

Matthew 4:12

¶ Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee;

Matthew 4:23

¶ And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

Matthew 4:25

And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and [from] Decapolis, and [from] Jerusalem, and [from] Judaea, and [from] beyond Jordan.

Luke 4:37

And the fame of him went out into every place of the country round about.

Mark 1:14

¶ Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,

Mark 1:28

And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee.