What does Luke 17:34 mean?
Explanation
Luke 17:34 is a part of a passage where Jesus is describing the events that will take place at the coming of the Kingdom of God. Jesus explains that there will be a sudden, selective judgment where some will be taken and others left behind.
The verse depicts a scenario of two men sleeping in one bed, with one being taken and the other left behind.
This 'taking' is often interpreted as being chosen by God or taken to be with Him.
The deeper meaning here is the unexpected and decisive nature of God’s judgment, indicating that readiness and faith are crucial, as the selection will not be based on proximity or human relationships but on one's personal standing with God.
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Historical Context
The Book of Luke was written approximately in the late first century AD. This period was characterized by a strong belief in the imminent return of Christ among early Christians.
The verse reflects the eschatological expectations of the time. The mention of two men in one bed should be understood culturally; it was common for people to share a bed due to space and economic constraints, and it did not carry the modern implications of a sexual relationship.
Theological Insights
Theological interpretations of Luke 17:34 vary across Christian denominations. Pre-tribulation Rapture Theology sees this verse as a description of a rapture event where believers will be taken up before a period of tribulation on earth.
In contrast, Post-tribulation views see this as a gathering of the faithful after a period of tribulation. Another interpretation insists that the verse represents a final, divine selection irrespective of any tribulation period.
Practical Applications
The practical teachings from this verse can be applied in daily life through a continuous preparation for the uncertain time of God's revelation or judgment.
It implies living a life of vigilance, moral integrity, and faithfulness, recognizing that material ties or physical closeness to other believers does not guarantee one's acceptance into God's Kingdom.
Cross-References
- Matthew 24:40-41: "Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left."
- 1 Thessalonians 5:2: "For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night."
Language Study
The key phrase in the Greek text for "shall be taken" is παραλημφθήσεται (paralēmphthēsetai), which suggests being taken alongside or received, a nuance of being chosen or taken into protection.
The Greek word for "left" is ἀφεθήσεται (aphethēsetai), indicating being left alone, abandoned, or forsaken.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
The concept of selective divine intervention is found in various religious traditions.
For example, in Hinduism, the god Vishnu is said to descend in various avatars to restore cosmic order, often saving the pious and punishing the wicked.
Similarly, in Norse mythology, Ragnarok describes a selective survival of beings who will inhabit a renewed world.
Although these themes are similar, the direct correspondence with the process described in Luke is not precise.
Scientific Perspectives
From a scientific standpoint, the verse does not offer empirical claims but rather a spiritual assertion about the divine judgment.
Science does not have the tools to verify eschatological claims since they fall outside the scope of empirical observation and experimentation.
Instead, science might address the sociological and psychological reasons behind eschatological beliefs.
Commentaries
Various Bible scholars and theologians have offered interpretations of this verse:
- William Barclay suggests the suddenness of the event signifies the importance of being prepared at all times.
- John Nolland sees it as part of a complex eschatological discourse that should be understood symbolically rather than as a literal prediction of future events.
- The Matthew Henry Commentary emphasizes the personal nature of salvation, and the fact that one's relationship with God is individual and not dependent on associations with others.