What does Luke 17:22 mean?

Explanation

The passage from Luke 17:22 spoken by Jesus to His disciples suggests a future time when they will long to experience the presence and the times of the 'Son of Man' – a term often used by Jesus to refer to Himself.

This desire arises from their experiencing trials, challenges, and perhaps confusion in His absence.

Here, Jesus is alluding to the period after His ascension when His physical presence would no longer be with them.

The verse carries a deeper meaning of anticipation for the promised return of Christ, which Christians refer to as the Second Coming. It underscores the theme of longing for divine intervention during times of difficulty.

Historical Context

This statement was made in the context of Jesus' ministry within the first century Jewish environment, where expectations of a Messiah were mingled with hopes of political deliverance from Roman occupation.

Jesus’ teachings often redefined Messianic expectations, shifting the focus from temporal liberation to spiritual and eternal matters.

The 'days of the Son of Man' refer to the times Jesus was physically present with them, performing miracles, teaching, and revealing God's nature.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives emerge from the interpretation of this verse.

In the eschatological context, premillennialists view it as a reference to the intense desire for Christ's return during the tribulations of the end times.

Amillennialists may interpret it more symbolically, emphasizing the spiritual presence of Christ with believers through the Holy Spirit.

Postmillennialists can see it as a motivation for the church's work in bringing about the conditions necessary for Christ's return.

Practical Applications

The verse can encourage believers to remain faithful in times when they feel the absence of God or are in trials, remembering the promises of Christ's return and the hope of redemption.

It teaches patience and perseverance in faith even when the embodiment of their belief, the physical presence of Jesus, is not visible.

These words can remind individuals to live in anticipation of Christ's second coming and to maintain a living hope that transcends current hardships.

Cross-References

Matthew 24:37 - "But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." 2.

John 16:22 - "And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you." 3. 2 Peter 3:8-10 - "But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day." 4.

Revelation 22:20 - "He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly.

Amen.

Even so, come, Lord Jesus."

Language Study

The key term "Son of Man" in the original Greek is "υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου" (huios tou anthrōpou).

This phrase is used frequently in the Gospels to carry a range of meanings, including Jesus' representation of humanity and His role as the Messianic figure prophesied in Daniel 7:13-14.

Also, the word "desire" is translated from "ἐπιθυμήσετε" (epithumēsete), suggesting a deep, intense longing.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a savior or divine figure returning to deliver people is not unique to Christianity.

In various cultures, there are myths and religions that contain prophecies about gods or heroes coming back, such as the Hindu belief in Kalki, the tenth avatar of the god Vishnu, who is expected to come at the end of the Kali Yuga, or the Maitreya in Buddhism, a future Buddha that will appear on Earth, achieve complete enlightenment, and teach the pure dharma.

Scientific Perspectives

Science typically does not intersect directly with eschatological or prophetic passages because of their metaphysical nature. Scientific perspectives focus on measurable and observable phenomena, whereas verses like Luke 17:22 are about faith and spiritual anticipation.

However, Psychology may offer insights into the human nature of hope and longing that Jesus describes.

Commentaries

Commentators have varied interpretations of Luke 17:22.

Some, like Matthew Henry, align this longing with a spiritual desire for communion with Christ and the ultimate joy in His second coming.

Other scholars, such as William Barclay, assert that in life’s difficulties, people will wish for the days of Jesus’ earthly ministry.

John Calvin commented on the necessity of patience and the strengthening of faith, especially with the understanding that Christ's kingdom is not of this world, requiring believers to set their sights on the life to come.