1 Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the offering box.
2 He also saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins.
3 And he said, “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them.
4 For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.
5 And while some were speaking of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones and offerings, he said,
6 “As for these things that you see, the days will come when there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”
7 And they asked him, “Teacher, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when these things are about to take place?”
8 And he said, “See that you are not led astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and, ‘The time is at hand!’ Do not go after them.
9 And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified, for these things must first take place, but the end will not be at once.
10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
11 There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven.
12 But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake.
13 This will be your opportunity to bear witness.
14 Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer,
15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.
16 You will be delivered up even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and some of you they will put to death.
17 You will be hated by all for my name’s sake.
18 But not a hair of your head will perish.
19 By your endurance you will gain your lives.
20 “But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near.
21 Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, and let those who are inside the city depart, and let not those who are out in the country enter it,
22 for these are days of vengeance, to fulfill all that is written.
23 Alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! For there will be great distress upon the earth and wrath against this people.
24 They will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive among all nations, and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.
25 “And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves,
26 People fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken.
27 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
28 Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.
29 And he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees.
30 As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near.
31 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near.
32 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place.
33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
34 “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap.”
35 For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth.
36 But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.
37 And every day he was teaching in the temple, but at night he went out and lodged on the mount called Olivet.
38 And early in the morning all the people came to him in the temple to hear him.
The True Meaning of Luke 21
This passage from the Gospel of Luke provides a powerful account of Jesus’ teachings and prophecies during his final days in Jerusalem. The author, Luke, was a physician and companion of the apostle Paul, who meticulously documented the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus foretells the destruction of the temple and the signs that will precede his second coming in this chapter. He warns his disciples of the trials and persecutions they will face, but also encourages them to remain steadfast in their faith. The chapter culminates with Jesus’ parable of the fig tree, which serves as a reminder to be vigilant and prepared for the Lord’s return.
Throughout the passage, Jesus makes references to other important biblical events, such as the tribulations described in the book of Daniel. These connections help to situate his teachings within the broader context of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.
Luke 21:1-4
Jesus observes a widow who puts two small copper coins into the temple treasury in Luke 21:1-4. This incident is a powerful illustration of sacrificial giving and genuine faith. The widow’s offering may seem insignificant in monetary value, but Jesus points out that she has given more than all the others. While others gave out of their wealth, she gave all she had to live on.
This section is significant as it highlights the importance of the heart behind our giving rather than the amount. The widow’s offering demonstrates her faith and trust in God’s provision, even in her poverty. Her actions challenge believers to reflect on their own generosity and sacrificial giving. It serves as a reminder that God values the sincerity and intent of our hearts when it comes to giving, rather than the quantity.
Throughout the Bible, we see themes of God’s care for the poor and the marginalized. The prophets in the Old Testament often spoke out against those who neglected the needy and vulnerable in society. Jesus also praises the widow’s offering in Mark 12:41-44, a parallel account of this story, emphasizing her faith and selflessness.
This passage also ties in with the broader context of Luke 21, where Jesus speaks about the destruction of the temple and the signs of the end times. The widow’s offering serves as a stark contrast to the greed and hypocrisy that Jesus warns about in the preceding verses. It underscores the values of humility, generosity, and genuine devotion that are pleasing to God. We can learn from the widow’s example by cultivating a spirit of sacrificial giving, trusting in God’s provision, and prioritizing the needs of others above our own comfort in our own lives. This passage challenges us to examine our attitudes towards money and possessions, prompting us to consider whether our giving reflects a heart fully surrendered to God.
Luke 21:5-9
Jesus is speaking to His disciples about the future and the signs of the end times in Luke 21:5-9. The passage begins with some people admiring the temple, noting its beautiful stones and offerings. Jesus, however, tells them that not one stone of the temple will be left upon another that will not be thrown down. This statement is a prophecy of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem, which happened in AD 70 when the Romans destroyed it. This event marked a significant turning point in Jewish history and was a fulfilment of Jesus’ prophecy, showcasing His divine knowledge and foresight.
Jesus then goes on to tell His disciples to not be led astray by false teachings and to not be alarmed by wars and tumults, as these things must take place before the end comes. This serves as a reminder to stay grounded in faith and to not be swayed by the chaos and uncertainties of the world. The emphasis here is on the importance of perseverance and trust in God’s plan, even in the midst of turmoil and upheaval.
The mention of wars and insurrections also points to the broader theme of the fallen nature of the world and the prevalence of sin. These occurrences serve as reminders of the brokenness of the world and the need for salvation. Jesus’ words here echo other biblical passages that discuss the signs of the end times, such as in Matthew 24 where He speaks about wars, famines, and earthquakes as signs of the end.
Furthermore, Jesus warns His disciples about the rise of false messiahs claiming to be Him and deceiving many. This caution against deception is a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of discernment and staying true to the teachings of Christ. Throughout the New Testament, there are numerous references to false prophets and teachers who lead people astray, underscoring the need for believers to be vigilant and rooted in the truth of God’s Word. Luke 21:5-9 provides valuable insights into the nature of the end times, the importance of faith amidst turmoil, and the need to be discerning in the face of deception. Believers can be better equipped to navigate the challenges of the world while remaining steadfast in their faith in Christ by understanding and internalizing the messages conveyed in this passage.
Luke 21:10-19
This passage in Luke 21:10-19 can be broken down into a few crucial sections. The first part focuses on the signs that will precede the end times: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.” This foretelling of tumultuous events serves as a warning from Jesus about the challenging times ahead. This section echoes similar prophecies found in other parts of the Bible, such as in the book of Revelation, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually prepared for the trials to come.
Following this, Jesus speaks of persecution that believers will endure: “But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name.” Here, Jesus is preparing his followers for the opposition and hardship they will face because of their faith. This message resonates throughout the Bible, with numerous examples of faithful individuals enduring persecution for their belief in God. One notable example is the story of Daniel in the Old Testament, who faced persecution but remained steadfast in his devotion to God.
The subsequent section provides reassurance and guidance for believers during times of trial: “But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.” This promise from Jesus emphasizes the importance of relying on God’s strength and wisdom during challenging circumstances. It echoes passages like Philippians 4:6-7, which urges believers to bring their concerns to God in prayer and find peace in His presence.
Lastly, Jesus speaks about the ultimate reward for those who remain faithful despite persecution: “Stand firm, and you will win life.” This statement underscores the concept of perseverance in faith and the promise of eternal life for those who endure trials with steadfastness. It aligns with various passages in the Bible that highlight the importance of remaining faithful until the end to receive the ultimate reward of salvation, such as in Revelation 2:10, where believers are encouraged to be faithful even unto death to receive the crown of life. Luke 21:10-19 serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges believers may face, the need for unwavering faith in the midst of persecution, the promise of divine guidance during trials, and the ultimate reward of eternal life for those who persevere. The lessons conveyed in this passage are timeless, offering encouragement and strength to followers of Christ in all generations who may encounter various forms of opposition for their faith.
Luke 21:20-24
Jesus is prophesying about the destruction of Jerusalem and the signs of the end times in Luke 21:20-24. The verse reads, “When you see Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, you will know that its desolation is near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those in the city get out, and let those in the country not enter the city. For this is the time of punishment in fulfillment of all that has been written. How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! There will be great distress in the land and wrath against this people. They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.”
This passage holds significant importance as it foretells the destruction of Jerusalem, which historically took place in 70 AD when the Roman armies under Titus surrounded and sacked the city. The destruction resulted in the dispersal of the Jewish people and the desolation of Jerusalem. This event was a fulfillment of prophecies from the Old Testament, such as in Daniel 9:26-27, where it mentions the destruction of the city and the temple.
Jesus’ warning to flee to the mountains when the city is surrounded by armies was a specific instruction to his followers to escape the impending destruction. This demonstrates Jesus’ care and concern for his disciples and his desire for them to be safe amidst the chaos and tribulations that were to come. Non-Jewish nations would have influence and control over Jerusalem during a period when the times of the Gentiles being fulfilled is mentioned. This period of Gentile dominance over Jerusalem has been seen throughout history, and it is believed to continue until the culmination of God’s plan and the return of Christ. This serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and His ultimate control over the destinies of nations and people. Being aware of the signs of the times, being prepared for trials and tribulations, and ultimately trusting in God’s sovereignty and His fulfillment of prophecies are underscored in this passage in Luke 21. It reminds believers to be vigilant, to seek refuge in God in times of trouble, and to have faith that ultimately, God’s plan will come to fruition.
Luke 21:25-28
The verses in Luke 21:25-28 describe a cosmic event that will occur before the return of Jesus. Let’s break this down further:
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Verse 25: “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring.”
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This verse indicates a time of celestial turmoil and chaos on earth. It foretells of extraordinary events occurring in the skies and on the earth that will cause distress among nations. This speaks to the apocalyptic imagery often associated with the end times and the second coming of Christ.
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This verse alludes to similar cosmic disturbances mentioned in the Old Testament, such as in Isaiah 13:10 and Joel 2:30-31, where celestial signs are seen as precursors to God’s judgment.
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Verse 26: “Men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.”
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This verse speaks to the terror and panic that will grip people’s hearts as they witness the catastrophic events unfolding around them. The powers of the heavens being shaken signify a disruption in the natural order, emphasizing the magnitude of the events to come.
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This language is reminiscent of prophetic passages in the Old Testament that describe the Day of the Lord, such as in Isaiah 2:12 and Joel 3:16, where God’s judgment is portrayed as a time of great upheaval and terror.
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Verse 27: “Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.”
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This verse points to the climactic event of Jesus’ return, as described in various passages in the New Testament, including Matthew 24:30 and Revelation 1:7. The image of the Son of Man coming in a cloud signifies Jesus’ triumphant return as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
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The phrase “with power and great glory” underscores the majesty and authority of Christ, marking the culmination of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. This event will bring about the final judgment and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom.
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Verse 28: “Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near. Jesus encourages his disciples to remain vigilant and hopeful as they witness the signs of the end times unfolding in this final verse. Rather than succumbing to fear and despair, they are urged to lift up their heads in anticipation of their ultimate redemption.
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This verse serves as a reminder of the believer’s faith and trust in God’s promises, even in the face of tribulation and uncertainty. It reinforces the importance of being spiritually prepared and watchful for the return of Christ, as emphasized in other passages like Matthew 24:42-44 and 1 Thessalonians 5:6. Luke 21:25-28 paints a vivid picture of the cosmic events leading up to Christ’s return and the subsequent redemption of believers. These verses serve as a potent reminder of the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and evil, prompting believers to remain steadfast in their faith and hopeful in the promise of eternal life with God.
Luke 21:29-33
Jesus uses the parable of the fig tree to teach his disciples about understanding the signs of the times in Luke 21:29-33. Jesus says, “Look at the fig tree and all the trees in this passage.” When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near.” Jesus likens the signs of the times to the budding of a fig tree, indicating that just as one can discern the coming of summer by observing the trees, his disciples should be able to recognize the signs that point to the fulfillment of prophecies about the Kingdom of God.
This passage serves as a reminder for believers to be vigilant and attentive to the signs that indicate the return of Christ and the establishment of God’s kingdom. It calls for a life of spiritual readiness, where believers are discerning and aware of the times in which they live. Jesus emphasizes the importance of being spiritually prepared for his return, as he stresses in Luke 21:34-36 the need to not be weighed down by the worries of life and to be ready for his coming.
The parable of the fig tree has deeper roots in the Old Testament, where the fig tree is often used as a symbol of Israel. Throughout the Bible, the fig tree represents both God’s blessings and judgment. God often uses the imagery of a fig tree to signal his judgment on Israel when they turn away from him in the Old Testament (Hosea 9:10, Jeremiah 8:13). Jesus’ reference to the fig tree in this passage may also allude to the need for Israel to recognize the signs of the times and turn back to God.
The promise of Jesus in Luke 21:33 that “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away” is a powerful affirmation of the eternal nature and reliability of God’s word. It’s a reminder that despite the transient nature of the world, God’s promises and prophecies will always come to pass. This verse underscores the enduring truth and authority of Scripture, encouraging believers to stand firm on the foundation of God’s word even amidst the changing circumstances of life. Luke 21:29-33 serves as a call to awareness, readiness, and faithfulness in light of the signs of the times and the promise of Christ’s return. Believers are encouraged to live with anticipation and preparedness for the fulfillment of God’s kingdom by understanding the significance of the fig tree as a symbol of discerning the times and recognizing the eternal truth of God’s word.
Luke 21:34-36
Jesus provides a crucial warning to his disciples and the crowds about avoiding spiritual complacency and being prepared for the coming of the Son of Man in Luke 21:34-36. Let’s break down these verses into important sections to provide a deeper understanding of their significance.
Firstly, in verse 34, Jesus warns, “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap.” Here, Jesus is cautioning against being consumed by worldly distractions and pleasures that could distract them from being spiritually alert. The terms “dissipation” and “drunkenness” refer to excessive indulgence in worldly pleasures, which can lead to spiritual negligence. Jesus is emphasizing the need for self-discipline and vigilance in order to not be caught off guard when the time of judgment comes.
This message is timeless and holds a valuable lesson for all believers. It reminds us to be vigilant and not allow the cares and pleasures of this world to cloud our spiritual vision. The apostle Peter in 1 Peter 5:8 also warns believers to “Be sober-minded; be watchful.” Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” This echoes the importance of spiritual alertness and self-control to avoid falling into temptation and being unprepared for the return of Christ.
Moving on to verse 35, Jesus continues, “For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth.” This statement underscores the universality of Christ’s return and judgment. Regardless of one’s social status, wealth, or position, the return of the Son of Man will affect everyone. This serves as a reminder that all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, will be accountable before God. It emphasizes the impartiality and universality of God’s judgment, highlighting the importance of readiness and spiritual preparedness for all believers.
Lastly, in verse 36, Jesus gives a direct instruction to his followers, saying, “But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” Here, Jesus emphasizes the need for constant prayer and vigilance in order to be able to persevere through the trials and tribulations that will precede his second coming. Believers can navigate through the challenges of life and ultimately stand blameless before the Son of Man by staying spiritually alert and relying on the strength that comes from prayer.
This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of spiritual preparedness, self-discipline, and prayer in the life of a believer. It encourages us to be vigilant and mindful of our spiritual state, to avoid being ensnared by the distractions of the world, and to remain steadfast in our faith as we await the glorious return of our Lord.
Luke 21:37-38
Jesus was teaching at the temple each day and spending each evening on the hill called the Mount of Olives, and all the people came early in the morning to hear him at the temple.”
This section of the verse highlights the daily routine of Jesus during his final days in Jerusalem. It emphasizes Jesus’ dedication to teaching and preaching to the people who came to listen to him at the temple. The temple was a central location for religious activities and gatherings in Jerusalem, making it the perfect place for Jesus to reach a large audience and spread his message of love, forgiveness, and salvation.
The mention of Jesus spending the night on the Mount of Olives is significant as this mountain held special importance in his ministry. Jesus had a history of spending time in prayer and communion with God on the Mount of Olives, as evidenced in Luke 22:39 when he went there to pray before his arrest. This demonstrates Jesus’ spiritual discipline and his strong connection to his heavenly Father. It also serves as a poignant reminder for believers today to seek solitude and communion with God in prayer, especially during challenging times.
Additionally, the reference to the people coming early in the morning to hear Jesus at the temple reflects the profound impact he had on the masses. People from all walks of life were drawn to Jesus’ teachings because they were unlike anything they had heard before. His words were filled with wisdom, compassion, and authority, which resonated deeply with those who were searching for spiritual truth and guidance.
This section of Luke 21 encapsulates the essence of Jesus’ ministry on earth – his commitment to teaching, his intimate relationship with God, and his ability to attract and inspire a diverse multitude of followers. It emphasizes the importance of earnestly seeking God’s presence, actively engaging in spiritual practices, and spreading the message of love and truth to those around us, just as Jesus did during his time on earth.
After Luke 21
Jesus in this chapter foretells the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem and warns his disciples about the signs of the end times. He cautions them to be vigilant and faithful, even in the midst of turmoil and persecution. Jesus emphasizes the importance of staying steadfast in their faith and trusting in God’s protection. Let us reflect on the words of Jesus in Luke 21, remembering the call to be watchful and prepared for the coming of the Son of Man. Just as Jesus warned his disciples to be alert and ready for the signs of the end times, we too must be diligent in our faith and live in a way that honors God. Let us take heed of Jesus’ teachings and remain steadfast in our belief, knowing that He is our ultimate hope and salvation.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.