Luke 17:35 is about the unexpected and sudden nature of the second coming of Christ, emphasizing the need for readiness and alertness among believers.
35 There will be two women grinding together. One will be taken and the other left.”

Setting the Scene for Luke 17:35
In Luke chapter 17, Jesus is teaching his disciples about the coming of the kingdom of God. The scene is set in a small village in ancient Israel, with Jesus surrounded by his closest followers. The disciples, including Peter, James, John, and others, are gathered around him, eager to learn from his teachings.
As the sun begins to set, Jesus speaks to them about the signs of the end times and the importance of being prepared for his return. The disciples listen intently, their faces reflecting a mix of curiosity and reverence for their teacher. The atmosphere is one of anticipation and solemnity, as they ponder the weight of Jesus’ words and the significance of the events to come.
In this moment, the disciples are not just students but also friends, sharing in the profound experience of being in the presence of the Son of God. The village around them is quiet, with the sounds of nature providing a peaceful backdrop to Jesus’ teachings. As the disciples absorb his words, they are reminded of the importance of faith, vigilance, and readiness for the kingdom of God.
What is Luke 17:35 about?
Imagine living each day with the anticipation that Christ could return at any moment. This verse from Luke reminds us of the urgency to be prepared for His return, as it will come unexpectedly, catching many off guard. We are called to be vigilant and ready to meet Him whenever He comes back. Just like a thief in the night, we do not know the exact time or hour, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually prepared at all times.
Reflect on your own readiness for Christ’s return. Are you living a life that reflects His teachings and values? Are you nurturing a strong relationship with Him through prayer, worship, and serving others? This verse serves as a powerful reminder to stay alert and faithful, as we never know when He will come again. Let us use this verse as motivation to keep our hearts and minds focused on Him, so that when He returns, we may be found ready and worthy of His kingdom.
Understanding what Luke 17:35 really means
In Luke 17:35, Jesus uses the analogy of two women grinding grain together, with one being taken and the other left, to emphasize the suddenness and unexpected nature of His return. This verse is part of a larger discourse where Jesus is teaching about the coming of the Kingdom of God and the need for readiness. To grasp the full significance of this teaching, it is crucial to consider the cultural and historical context of Jesus’ audience, who were familiar with the routine tasks of agricultural and domestic work.
Similar themes are echoed in other Bible passages like Matthew 24:40-41, where Jesus speaks about two men in the field, one taken and one left. These passages underscore the importance of spiritual preparedness and vigilance. Paul also addresses the return of Christ in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, emphasizing the believers’ anticipation of meeting the Lord. Revelation 3:3 further warns about being watchful and ready for Christ’s sudden coming, akin to a thief in the night.
The relevance of Luke 17:35 extends to people today, urging us to stay spiritually alert amidst the distractions of modern life. In a world filled with busyness and material concerns, it is easy to lose sight of the eternal perspective. Consider the scenario of two colleagues working together, where one’s sudden departure prompts reflection on life’s deeper meaning and the significance of faith. This anecdote mirrors the essence of the verse, highlighting the importance of spiritual readiness.
The phrase “Two women will be grinding grain together” signifies the ordinary nature of daily activities, emphasizing that Christ’s return can occur amidst the routine of life. “One will be taken and the other left” underscores the selective and unforeseen nature of this event, emphasizing that outward appearances do not determine one’s spiritual readiness. This serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize spiritual preparedness over worldly concerns.
As we reflect on Luke 17:35, it prompts introspection regarding our own spiritual readiness for unexpected events. Regular self-examination and engagement in spiritual disciplines are vital to ensure alignment with God’s will. Encouraging others to deepen their relationship with God and remain vigilant in their faith journey is essential in fostering a community of believers prepared for Christ’s return. By internalizing the message of this verse and applying it to our lives, we can cultivate a sense of urgency in being spiritually prepared for the unforeseen moments that may come our way.
Are we prepared for Christ’s return at any moment?
The verse in Luke 17:35 speaks about being prepared for the sudden return of Christ. This verse serves as a reminder that we must always be ready for His coming, as it can happen at any moment without warning. It emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant and faithful in our walk with God, so that we will not be caught off guard when Christ returns.
Therefore, when reflecting on this verse, it prompts us to examine our hearts and lives to ensure that we are living in a way that honors and pleases God. We should be diligent in our relationship with Him, continually seeking to grow in faith and obedience. We can eagerly anticipate Christ’s return and look forward to the day when we will be united with Him in eternity by being prepared and watchful in our faith.
Application
Embrace the present moment like a well-oiled machine in the fast-paced world of deadlines and meetings. Ensure your “family” of friends and acquaintances know they are loved and supported. Are you prepared to meet challenges head-on and spread positivity in every interaction like a social media influencer with a loyal following?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.
