What does Luke 21:31 mean?

Explanation

Luke 21:31 is a part of a larger discourse that Jesus gives on the Mount of Olives, commonly referred to as the Olivet Discourse.

In this speech, Jesus outlines the signs that would precede the end times and His second coming.

When Jesus says, "So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand," He is encouraging His listeners to be observant of the signs of the times.

The phrase "these things" refers back to the previous verses where Jesus had been describing various events such as wars, natural disasters, and other troubles. The "kingdom of God" refers to the reign and rule of God, which Christians believe will be fully realized upon Jesus' return.

This verse carries an assurance that the fulfillment of these signs will herald the imminent arrival of God's kingdom.

Historical Context

Luke's Gospel is believed to have been written around 60-90 AD, a time when early Christians were experiencing persecution and were eagerly anticipating the return of Jesus.

The city of Jerusalem and its temple still stood when Luke wrote his account, but both would be destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD.

Jesus' prediction of these events in Luke 21 would have resonated with the early Christian community who may have seen the destruction as a sign of the coming end times.

At the time, the audience would have understood the "kingdom of God" in both a present spiritual sense as well as a future physical reality.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, there are varying interpretations of this verse.

Preterists would argue that this verse and many of the events Jesus described were fulfilled with the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD.

Futurists, on the other hand, believe that this verse speaks of events that are still to come and will be fulfilled before Christ's second coming.

Amillennialists might focus on how the kingdom of God is already present in the life of believers, whereas dispensationalists might emphasize the literal fulfillment of these signs as prerequisites to the establishment of a future, earthly kingdom.

Regardless of perspective, the common thread is the anticipation of the ultimate fulfillment of God's sovereign plan.

Practical Applications

Practically, Luke 21:31 can be seen as a call to vigilance and readiness for believers.

Just as one would prepare for a coming storm by observing the sky, Christians are encouraged to be aware of the spiritual signs of their times.

It serves as a reminder to live in a state of expectancy, staying faithful and being proactive in one's faith.

It also encourages believers not to be afraid but to have hope even in the face of troubling events, trusting in the nearness of God's kingdom.

Cross-References

• "And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh." (Luke 21:28)
• "But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father." (Mark 13:32)
• "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come." (Matthew 24:42)
• "And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:" (Acts 3:20)
• "But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer." (1 Peter 4:7)

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the phrase "nigh at hand" is translated from "ἐγγύς" (engus), which means near, both in terms of time and physical proximity. The use of this word emphasizes the immediacy and urgency of the coming kingdom.

"Ye see" comes from the Greek root "ἰδόντες" (idontes), which suggests perceiving with intentionality and understanding.

The verse is a call to discern the signs of the times wisely and recognize their significance.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons with other ancient myths and religious interpretations reveal that many cultures have end-of-the-world narratives or beliefs regarding a coming age.

For example, in Norse mythology, the concept of Ragnarök is a series of events including a great battle that leads to the death of major gods, natural disasters, and the submersion of the world in water.

Afterward, the world will resurface anew and fertile.

Similarly, in Hinduism, there is a belief in a cyclical age system, where the world goes through epochs, and each era has its end before a new one begins.

These parallels show a common thread in human culture, where the end of the current world order paves the way for a new era.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, while the events described in the verse (and the surrounding passages referring to cosmic disturbances and natural disasters) could be interpreted as natural phenomena, science does not provide a basis for predicting the end of the world or the coming of a divine kingdom.

Some might consider the reference to "these things" that come to pass as potentially analogous to observable conditions like climate change, wars, and astronomical events, though such links are interpretive and not explicit in the text.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer different perspectives on this verse.

Some, like John Calvin, view it as a call to discernment, understanding that the signs of the end are an encouragement for believers during tribulation.

Others, like N.T.

Wright, might emphasize the historical context of the verse, considering the way it spoke to the first-century Christians who experienced the fall of Jerusalem.

Still others, like Matthew Henry, talk about the faithfulness required to endure while waiting for the fulfillment of God's promises.

Commentators are generally united in viewing the verse as assurance of God's sovereignty and a call to be watchful.