Lucas 21
Bob Utley · You Can Understand the Bible
Lucas 21:1-4
21:1-4 This is paralleled in Mark 12:41-44. 21:1 "the treasury" This is a compound word of "treasure" and "guard" (cf. LXX 2 Kgs. 23:11; Esth. 3:9; Ezra 5:17; 6:1; 7:20). Jewish tradition (Shekalim 6 [fourth tractate in Mo’ed]; Josephus, Jewish Wars 5.5.2; 6.5.2; Antiq. 19.6.2; and Alfred Edersheim, Temple, pp. 48-49) asserts that there were thirteen trumpet-shaped, metal boxes located in the Court of the Women, where Jesus regularly taught (cf. Luke 20:1). Each one of them was designated for a different charitable purpose (cf. John 8:20). Archaeology has never confirmed the existence of these metal containers. 21:2 "a poor widow" Luke chooses from Jesus' words and actions to cast the religious and social outcasts of His day in a positive light (esp. women). Here a poor widow set the standard of sacrificial giving that all disciples should emulate. ▣ "two small copper coins" This refers to two copper Jewish coins called lepton. This term means "the thin one." This is the only Jewish coin mentioned in the NT. Two lepta equal one quadrant; four quadrants equal one assarion; 16 assarions equal one denarius, which was a day's wage for a soldier or laborer. Commentators often mentioned that someone could not give one lepta (rabbinical tradition), but this is a misunderstanding of the Jewish Talmud. Special Topic: Coins Used in Palestine in Jesus' Day 21:3 "Truly" This is the Greek term alēthōs (cf. Luke 9:27; 12:44), which is used synonymously with amēn in Luke 21:32. The parallel in Mark 12:43 has amēn. Special Topic: Amen 21:4 "into the offering" "in offerings for God" "have contributed" "offered their gifts" "put in money" "into the house" Literally this is "put into the gifts" (cf. MSS א, B, and L), but several other uncial manuscripts (cf. MSS A, D, W) and most ancient versions add "of God" to clarify the context for Gentiles. The UBS 4 committee rated the shorter text as "B" (almost certain). ▣ "out of their surplus" This same principle of spiritual giving is found in 2 Cor. 8:12. It is surprising that the NT does not discuss regular giving principles. 2 Corinthians 8-9 deals with the Gentile churches' one-time gift to the mother church in Jerusalem. Tithing is an OT principle. Special Topic: Tithing ▣ "put in all that she had to live on" This woman trusted in God's daily provision (cf. Matt. 6:33). Luke records many of Jesus' teachings about worldly possessions and wealth. Giving is a spiritual thermometer. It reveals our motives and priorities. But please rememeber that much of Jesus' teachings are hyperbolic for impact. Believers must also provide for their families (cf. 1 Tim. 5:8). Special Topic: Wealth CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS FOR JESUS' OLIVET DISCOURSE Matthew records several long sermons/teaching sessions of Jesus. They seem to be made up of Jesus' repeated emphases in different locations, with different audiences Matthew combining these to form long sermons. Matthew's Olivet discourse is three times longer than Mark 13 or Luke 21. a good example of this is Matt. 24, where Matthew adds Jesus' discussion Matt. 24:36-44 is found only in Luke 17:22-37 Matt. 24:45-51 is not in the parallels. Each Gospel writer had his own sources. Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21 are so difficult to interpret because they deal with either two or three questions simultaneously (cf. Matt. 24:3). When will the temple be destroyed? (the questions in Mark and Luke) What will be the sign of the Messiah's return? for the judgment on the temple (i.e., Hebrew idiom, "coming") the Second Coming (but at this point the disciples would have no knowledge of this event) When will this age end? the age of temple law end time Special Topic: Disciples' Questions The genre of New Testament eschatological passages is usually a combination of apocalyptic and prophetic language, which is purposely ambiguous and highly symbolic. One must be familiar with the OT to understand the imagery being used. See D. Brent Sandy, Plowshares and Pruning Hooks: Rethinking the Language of Biblical Prophecy and Apocalyptics Fee and Stuart, How To Read the Bible For All Its Worth, pp. 181-204 C. B. Caird, The Langauge and Imagery of the Bible Special Topic: Apocalyptic Literature Special Topic: Prophecy (OT) Several passages in the NT (cf. Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 17 and 21, 1 and 2 Thessalonians and Revelation) deal with a temporal divine coming in judgment, as does the OT. These passages emphasize the exact time of the event is unknown but the event is certain (i.e., Matt. 24:36) we can know the general time but not the specific time of the events (i.e., Matt. 24:32) it will occur suddenly and unexpectedly (i.e., Matt. 24:43) we must be prayerful, ready, and faithful to assigned tasks (i.e., Matt. 24:42,44) Many scholars see Matt. 24 parallel with Rev. 6. It is John's way of recording the Olivet Discourse. There is a theological paradoxical tension between the any-moment return (cf. Matt. 24:27,44) the fact that some events in history must occur Special Topic: The Any-Moment Return of Jesus vs. The Not Yet Special Topic: Delayed Second Coming The New Testament states that some events will occur before the temporal divine judgment on apostate Judaism (i.e., A.D. 66-70): The gospel preached to the known world (cf. Matt. 24:14; Mark 13:10) The great Jewish apostasy (cf. Matt. 24:10-13, 21; 1 Tim. 4:1; 2 Tim. 3:1ff.; 2 Thess. 2:3) The revelation of the "man of lawlessness" (cf. Dan. 7:23-26; 9:24-27; 2 Thess. 2:3) Removal of that/who restrains (cf. 2 Thess. 2:6-7) For good resources on comparing the different theories related to this chapter, see Four views On the Book of Revelation several authors (ISBN 0-310-21080-1) Preterism ‒ pp. 35-92 Idealism ᰪ pp. 93-132 Progressive Dispensationalism ‒ pp. 133-176 Classical Dispensationalsim ‒ pp. 177-231 Steve Gregg, Revelation: four Views, Revised and Updated (ISBN 978140167216) YouTube Lecture - 1:34:57 Historicist Preterist Futurist Idealist I have become a Partial Preterist/Idealist. The books that have caused me to rethink my Futurist upbringing are: John L. Bray, Matthew 24 Fulfilled Kenneth L. Gentry (1)Before Jerusalem Fell (2)The Olivet Discourses Made Easy Jay E. Adams, The Time Is At Hand Gary DeMar, Last Days Madness David Chilton, The Great Tribulation Bruce Gore (YouTube videos), "The Apocalypse in Space and Time" Matthew 23-25 forms a literary unit and should be interpreted together! I find it interesting that the Gospel of John does not mention or allude to the Olivet Discourse. One possible reason is that he addresses the same issues in his Apocalypse (Revelation), written before the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple (Partial Preterism, see Kenneth Gentry, Before Jerusalem Fell, p. 242, #30).
Lucas 21:5-6
21:5 "And while some were talking about the temple" In Mark 13 (and Matthew 24) it is the inner circle of disciples who mention the beautiful temple building as they walked from the upper room through the temple Court of the Gentiles toward the Mount of Olives. But Luke puts the discussion of the beauty of Herod's Temple in the Court of the Women in the temple itself. Herod's temple was not completely finished until A.D. 63, seven years before it was destroyed by Titus' army. This remodeled and enlarged national shrine was the object of Jewish religion (cf. Jeremiah 7). The differences between the Synoptic Gospels cause many to doubt the historicity of the three (often) different accounts. First, it must be remembered the Gospels are not cause-and-effect, western, chronological histories. They are gospel tracts targeting different communities/cultures. Luke, like John, is written to Gentiles. The Gospel writers under inspiration had the right to choose some of Jesus' acts and teachings (but not all, cf. John 20:30-31; 21:25) rearrange to chronological order Jesus' words and actions (i.e., cleaning of the temple, early in John, the last week of Jesus' life in the Synoptics) adapt the words and actions to fit the Gospel writer's overall theme (i.e., this is not to imply they could make things up) For a good discussion of the literary genre of the Gospels, see Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart, How To Read the Bible For All Its Worth, the chapter on the Gospels ▣ "adorned stones" Herod's temple was built with huge polished limestones (i.e., mezzeh), which were 25 x 8 x 12 cubits (a cubit is 18-21"). Josephus records this information in Antiq. 15.11.3. It was one of the wonders of the ancient world (Tacitus, History 5.8) Special Topic: Cubit "votive gifts" "donations" "gifts dedicated to God" "gifts offered to God" "votive offerings" "ornaments" "gift offerings" "offerings" This is the Greek term anathēma, which is used only here in the NT. In the Septuagint it can refer to a votive offering (cf. II Macc. 9:16) an accursed thing (i.e., something given to God and thereby becomes holy and cannot be used by human beings, cf. Deut. 7:26) One example of this was Herod's lavish gift of a huge golden grapevine that hung at the entrance of the Holy Place. The grapes were as tall as a man (cf. Josephus, Antiq. 15.2.3). This grapevine was a symbol of national Israel (cf. Ps. 80:8; Isa. 5:1-7). Special Topic: Curse 21:6 "there will not be left one stone upon another which will not be torn down" This is imagery of total destruction. It exactly describes the Roman destruction of Jerusalem under Titus in A.D. 70 (i.e., according to Josephus, Jewish Wars). The only stones left were the foundation stones of Solomon's temple that are today known as the "Wailing Wall." This total destruction was prophesied in Micah 3:12 and Jer. 26:18. This destruction is described in detail beginning in A.D. 66 in Galilee by Vespasian and finished by Titus' siege and dismantling of Jerusalem and the temple. This was God's judgment on "those who pierced Him" (cf. Rev. 1:7). I have come to understand that most of Jesus' Olivet Discourse and the book of Revelation predict and describe this event. This theological understanding is called Partial Preterism. If you are interested in the historical and textual basis of this interpretive opinion, see John Bray, Matthew 24 fulfilled Kenneth Gentry, Before Jerusalem Fell Steve Gregg, Revelation: Four Views, Revised and Updated YouTube Lecture - 1:34:57 Four Views On the Book of Revelation, pp. 35-92 David Chilton, The Great Tribulation Gary DeMar, Last Days Madness
Lucas 21:7-9
21:7 "They questioned Him" From Mark 13:3 we know that "they" refers to Peter, James, John, and Andrew. They seem to have asked two or three questions. when will the temple be destroyed what will be the sign of the coming destruction when will this age end and the new age begin (recorded only in Matt. 24:3) Special Topic: The Disciples' Questions 21:8 "See to it that you are not misled" This is a PRESENT ACTIVE IMPERATIVE and an AORIST PASSIVE SUBJUNCTIVE. It refers to the many Messianic pretenders active in the city of Jerusalem during the Roman siege (A.D. 69-70. It was this nationalistic religious fanaticism that led to the total destruction of Jerusalem (cf. Josephus, Wars of the Jews 6.54). ▣ "misled" This is the Greek VERB planaō, from which the English word "planet" (i.e., the wanderers) is derived. It refers to the unusual orbit of the planets compared to the constellations (stars). It is usually translated "error," but came to be used as imagery for deceiving or leading astray (cf. Matt. 24:4,5,11,24; also note Luke 17:23). ▣ "'I am He'" This reflects Jesus' use of the OT covenant name for God, YHWH (cf. Exod. 3:14) as a designation of Himself (cf. John 8:24,58; 13:19; 18:5). Here it means many false prophets would claim to be the Jewish Messiah of Deut. 18:18-19 (cf. Acts 3:20-23). Special Topic: Names for Deity, D. ▣ "The time is near" This phrase in this context is the message of the pseudo-Messiahs. This is another example of the delayed Second Coming emphasis in Luke. This refers to the time period between Jesus' ministry and the destruction of Jerusalem. The other Gospels and Revelation use this phrase as a time indicator by Jesus. Special Topic: Temporal Markers in the Olivet Discourse ▣ "do not go after them" This is an AORIST PASSIVE (deponent) SUBJUNCTIVE used in the sense of an IMPERATIVE (Mark 13:7 is a PRESENT IMPERATIVE). It has the NEGATIVE PARTICLE, which usually denotes stopping an act in progress. These false messiahs had a large and zealous following. Nationalism is a tricky master. It tends to pull us away from the priority of the Kingdom of God. 21:9-11 These are precursor signs that are observable in every age (cf. Mark 13:7-8; Matt. 24:6-8). They designate the kind of world we live in, not uniquely the world immediately before the coming of Jesus Christ in judgment on "those who pierced Him" (cf. Rev. 1:7, cf. John L. Bray, Matthew 24 Fulfilled, pp. 25,28). 21:9 "do not be terrified" This is another AORIST PASSIVE SUBJUNCTIVE used in the sense of an IMPERATIVE. It is also an idiom from the Septuagint. The times of temporal judgment nor the eschatological judgment should frighten believers because their sins have been forgiven and they are fully accepted by God in Christ! Special Topic: Septuagint
Lucas 21:10-11
21:10 "these things must take place first" The Markan parallel calls these precursor events "the beginning of the birth pangs of the new age" (cf. Mark 13:7-8). Both Mark and Luke have the word dei (must), which means necessity. God's children need to know and trust that all things are working out according to His plan! Special Topic: Birth Pains of the New Age Special Topic: YHWH's Eternal Redemptive Plan 21:11 NASB, REB "terrors" "fearful sights" "dreadful portents" "terrifying events" "alarming sights" This form of the word "fear" is found only here in the NT, but it is also found in the LXX of Isa. 19:17. Isaiah 19:1 is one place in the OT where "coming" is used as imagery of God using foreign nations' armies as the means of judgment (in Isa. 19:1 it is Egypt; see Special Topic: The Second Coming, IV.) ▣ "great signs from heaven" The author uses OT apocalyptic language to describe these events (cf. Mark 13:25). Peter says that the prophecy of Joel 2:28-32, which also uses apocalyptic language, was fulfilled at Pentecost (cf. Acts 2), which shows it was not meant to be understood literally. Two books that have really helped me to better understand prophecy and apocalyptic literature are: D. Brent Sandy, Plowshares & Pruning Hooks: Rethinking the Language of Biblical Prophecy and Apocalyptic Gary DeMar, Last Days Madness, pp. 131-157 There are several slightly different versions of the phrase in the Greek manuscript tradition. The variations do not alter the sense of the phrase in context. There is no way to determine which of the five Greek MSS variants is original. Special Topic: Sign (OT)
Lucas 21:12-19
21:12 There have been many examples both in Acts and in church history of this kind of persecution of believers. Notice the different types of persecution (i.e., "lay hands on," a LXX idiom). synagogues ‒ beatings for violation of Mosaic Law or judicial decision (cf. Deut. 25:1-3; Matt. 19:17; 23:34; Mark 13:9; Acts 6:9-10; see Contextual Insights, A. from Mark 13) local governmental authorities (i.e., the different sons of Herod) Roman authorities (Proconsuls or Procurators) regional (governors) in Rome (kings) The NASB Study Bible (footnote Luke 21:12, p. 1503) asserts that the synagogue was also used as a place of confinement until trial. This Jesiwh and Roman persecution of believers related to the historical period before A.D. 70. Jews lost all influence and political power after the Jewish War (A.D. 66-70). This is one reason I think a Partial Preterism fits the Olivet Discourse and the book of Revelation best. The reason it is titled "Partial Preterism" is because the Second Coming of Jesus is predicted and promised in so many texts ‒ Acts 1:11; 3:19-21; 1 Cor. 1:7; 15:23; Phi. 3:20-21; 1 Thess. 2:19; 3:3; 4:13-18; 5:23; 2 Thess. 1:7,10; 1 Tim. 6:14; 2 Tim. 4:1,8; Titus 2:13; Heb. 9:28; James 5:7-9; 1 Pet. 1:7,13; 2 Pet. 1:16; 3:8-13; 1 John 2:28. Special Topic: The Second Coming 21:13 Persecution can lead to proclamation opportunities (e.g., Paul in prison in Rome). It is surprising that Luke does not retain Mark's wording at this point because it fits Luke's purpose in writing his Gospel so well (i.e., Mark 13:10, "and the Gospel must be preached to all the nations")! Special Topic: Why Do Christians Suffer? 21:14-15 This text does not refer to regular sermon preparation and Bible lessons (usually quoted by lazy preachers and teachers), but to specific testimony in the face of persecution and trials before Jewish authorities (cf. Acts 7) or governmental authorities (cf. Luke 12:11-12). 21:16 "you will be betrayed even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends" Faith in Christ will divide families and lifelong friends (cf. Matt. 10:21; Mark 13:12). This may be what Matt. 24:40-41 means. 21:17 "you will be hated by all because of My name" This is a PERIPHRASTIC FUTURE PASSIVE. The presence of "all" shows it is a hyperbole (exaggeration). Christians will be hated because of their identification with Jesus of Nazareth (cf. Luke 6:22; John 9:22; 15:19; 16:2; 17:14,16; 1 Pet. 4:12-16). The early church was accused of atheism (no visible God) treason (would not join Roman's military) incest (they loved one another) cannibalism (misunderstanding of Lord's Supper, John 6) which were all related to a misunderstanding of Christian doctrines, terminologies, and worship procedures. Persecution for Christ's sake is a NT evidence of believer's salvation and effective Christian living (cf. John 8:47; 18:37; 1 John 4:5-6). Special Topic: The Name of the Lord 21:18 "Yet not a hair of your head will perish" This is a strong DOUBLE NEGATIVE. Verse 18 seems to contradict Luke 21:16. However, it must be understood that the main thrust here is God is in control of history physical death is not ultimate for believers Jesus used this same OT idiom of protection (cf. 1 Sam. 14:45; 2 Sam. 14:11; 1 Kgs. 1:52) in previous sermons (cf. Luke 12:7; Matt. 10:30). Thank God for Romans 8:31-39! ▣ "perish" This is the Greek term apollumi. Robert B. Girdlestone, Synonyms of the Old Testament, p. 276, points out that there are several places where this term cannot be translated annihilation, "but such injury as makes the object practically useless for its original purpose." the waste of ointment, Matt. 26:8 destruction of old wine skins, Matt. 9:17 destruction of hair, Luke 21:18 destruction of food, John 6:27 destruction of gold, 1 Pet. 1:7 destruction of the world, 2 Peter. 3:6 destruction of the physical body, Matt. 2:13; 8:25; 12:14; 21:41; 22:7; 26:52; 27:20; Rom. 2:12; 14:15; and 1 Cor. 8:11 This refers to the end of bodily existence. It is also commonly used in a moral sense. "All men are regarded as morally destroyed, i.e., they have failed to carry out the intention for which the race was called into being" (p. 276). God's response to this problem was Jesus Christ (cf. John 3:15-16 and 2 Pet. 3:9). Those who reject the gospel are now subject to a further destruction, which does involve body and spirit (cf. 1 Cor. 1:18; 2 Cor. 2:15; 4:3; 2 Thess. 2:10). I have come to believe in "limited immortality." Only God is ever living and those He chooses to give eternal life (i.e., believers in Jesus). This has caused me to rethink "eternal conscious torment." I hope you will look at the YouTube videos by Edward William Fudge, The Fire That Consumes: A Biblical and Historical Study of the Doctrine of Final Punishment (video and book) YouTube One Hour Lecture Steve Gregg, "Hell: Three Views" (video) YouTube Lecture - 1:34:57 Special Topic: Destruction Special Topic: Eternal Punishment 21:19 This same emphasis on perseverance is found in Matt. 10:22; 24:13; Rom. 2:7; 5:3-4; Heb. 10:36. True faith is a faith that lasts! There is a Greek manuscript variant in the VERB. AORIST MIDDLE (deponent) IMPERATIVE (cf. MSS א, D. L, W) FUTURE MIDDLE INDICATIVE (cf. MSS A, B, and most ancient versions) The UBS 4 chooses #1, but "with difficulty" ("C" rating). The UBS 3 gave #1 a D rating, "with great difficulty." Special Topic: Perseverance ▣ "you will gain your lives" This is the Greek word psuchē (souls), which reflects the Hebrew word nephesh (BDB 659, i.e., physical life). Because of verse 16 this must refer to one's spiritual life. Christians will be killed but they have eternal life (cf. Matt. 10:28). See the word play between the two meanings at Mark 8:35-37. Special Topic: Body and Spirit Special Topic: Nephesh Special Topic: Eternal
Lucas 21:20-24
21:20 "when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies" Vespasian was Nero's general who subdued Palestine, (A.D. 66-68) but at Nero's suicide (A.D. 68) he had to return to Rome (A.D. 69) where three Emperors (Galba, Ortho, and Vitrello) followed in less than one year. Finally, Vespasian became Emperor and his son, Titus, destroyed the city and the temple in A.D. 70 after a five month siege of Jerusalem (cf. Luke 19:43) beginning in April when the city was flooded with pilgrims. Josephus vividly describes this period in his Jewish Wars (see Kenneth Gentry, Before Jerusalem Fell). The parallels in the Synoptic Gospels (i.e., Matt. 24:15 and Mark 13:14) mention "the abomination of desolation" (see Special Topic: Abomination of Desolation). Luke clarifies this as the Roman legions under Titus, Vespasian's son, which had started a five month siege of Jerusalem. The city and temple were completely destroyed in A.D. 70. For a good indepth history of this period, see the YouTube videos by Bruce Gore, "The Apocalypse in Space and Time" (10 lessons). 21:21 "Then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains" This is a PRESENT ACTIVE IMPERATIVE. Tradition (Eusebius, Eccl. His. 3.5.2-3) asserts that when the Christians saw the Roman armies coming, they heeded Jesus' prophetic message and fled to the Trans-Jordan region of the Decapolis to a city named Pella and almost all of them were spared the horrors of the siege and destruction of Jerusalem. Judaism (i.e., the Mosaic system) was once and for all destroyed, but Christianity became a universal faith option. 21:22 "because these are the days of vengeance" God used the Roman army to bring temporal judgment on apostate Judaism (i.e., "those who pierced Him," cf. Rev. 1:7). This refers to the consequences of the Jewish War (A.D. 66-70). Hundreds of thousands were killed and the rest sold into slavery (see note at v. 24). See John Bray, Matthew 24 Fulfilled and Four Views On the Book of Revelation, pp. 35-92 and Special Topic: The Second Comine, IV. The Gospel of Luke records many of Jesus' teachings about the judgment of God that will fall on Israel because of their rejection of Jesus and their persecution of the church (i.e., Luke 11:29-32,49-51; 13:34-35; 19:41-44; 21:20-24; 23 28-31; see Contextual Insights, A. in Mark 13). 21:23 This obviously refers to the destruction of Jerusalem only, not to the Second Coming. The problem was the rapid flight that was necessary (cf. Matt. 24:15-31; Mark 13:14-27). Jesus answers the questions of the disciples. Notice also the synonymous parallelism which is so common in OT wisdom literature. Verses 23 and 24a form three double parallel lines. Special Topic: The Disciples' Questions Special Topic: Wisdom Literature 21:24 "and they will fall by the edge of the sword" Verse 24 reflects Revelation 11. Josephus tells us that 1,100,000 were killed and 97,000 were taken prisoner (Wars of the Jews, 6.9.3). Josephus often exaggerated his numbers, but the terror and horror of this event is accurate. See Gary DeMar, Last Days Madness, pp. 117-130. ▣ "and will be led captive into all the nations" The captured Jews were sold as slaves throughout the Roman Empire (as were all defeated peoples). Two-thirds of the population of the Roman Empire were slaves. ▣ "until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled" There are several theories related to this phrase (cf. Luke 20:16; Mark 13:10; Rom. 11:12,25). Gentiles as God's instrument of judgment on Israel (i.e., Dan. 8:13) the Gentiles in political control of Palestine (i.e., Daniel 2; Rev. 11:2b) the believing Gentiles receiving Israel's OT blessing and mandate of evangelism (i.e., Rom.2:28-29; Gal. 6:16; Eph. 2:11-3:13; 1 Pet. 2:5,9; Rev. 1:6) the Good News being preached even to the Gentiles (i.e., Rom. 1:8; 11:25; Col. 1:6,23)
Lucas 21:25-28
21:25-26 "There will be signs in sun and moon and stars" Again this is an example of OT apocalyptic language concerning God's breaking into history. Because of Peter's use of Joel 2:28-32 in Acts 2, this should not be taken literally. See note at verse 11 and Gary DeMar, Last Days Madness, pp. 131-156. Special Topic: Apocalyptic Literature 21:25 "and on the earth dismay among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves" Apocalyptic literature has much in common with OT wisdom literature. In this text there is a good example of synonymous parallelism. The imagery of the sea for the nations comes from Daniel (cf. Dan. 7:2-3). Special Topic: Wisdom Literature 21:26 "coming upon the world" This phrase is unique to Luke. It refers to the known inhabited world, not the whole planet. It may refer to the chaos in Rome with the suicide of Nero in A.D. 68. ▣ "for the powers of the heavens will be shaken" This reflects several passages in Isa. 13:10,13; 24:22; 34:4; 51:6. This imagery has two orientations. If this were an astral deities context it would refer to their weakness and judgment. If this were a visitation of YHWH context (and it is) then it refers to creation's convulsions at the approach of its Creator. Special Topic: Lord of Hosts 21:27 "Then they will see" This could refer to all mankind more possibly Jews trapped in Jerusalem by Titus' siege (A.D. 69-70) This seems to preclude a secret rapture. The concept of a secret rapture was unknown in the church before John Darby (A.D. 1800-1882), an Anglican minister in England. His unique theological emphasis speculated all OT prophecy has to be literally fulfilled to the nation of Israel the church is a parenthesis because the Jews rejected Jesus as the Christ (i.e., between the 69 th and 70 th week of Dan. 9:24-27) the church must be raptured out of this world so that the OT prophecies can be fulfilled to Israel during the millennium For a good critique of this new eschatological system, please view Steve Gregg's YouTube videos on Dispensationalism. YouTube Lecture - 1:34:57 He was once a teacher of this view but has changed. He, therefore, understands it well and knows its weaknesses! Special Topic: Rapture ▣ "the Son of Man coming in a cloud" "Son of Man" is Jesus' self-chosen title. It apparently comes from Ezek. 2:1 and Dan. 7:13, where it combines humanity and Deity (cf. 1 John 4:1-3). The presence of a cloud fits OT and NT allusions to a cloud being the transportation of Deity. It is present at many of the major events of judgment (cf. Matt. 24:30; 26:64; 1 Thess. 4:17; Rev. 1:7). See David Chilton, The Great Tribulation, pp. 16-28. Special Topic: Son of Man Special Topic: Coming On the Clouds Special Topic: Shekinah Special Topic: The Second Coming, IV. 21:28 "But when these things begin to take place" These prophecies of Mark 13, Matthew 24, and Luke 21 are meant to encourage those believers living between Jesus' death and the destruction of Jerusalem those believers who suffer persecution in every age (Idealism) those last generation Christians who will face the wrath of the Antichrist and his followers (Futurism) the events included in the Jewish war (A.D. 66-70, Partial Preterism) Special Topic: Eschatology Special Topic: Temporal Markers in the Olivet Discourse ▣ "straighten up and lift up your heads" These are both AORIST ACTIVE IMPERATIVES. Believers' courage in the face of persecution and death is a powerful witness to the unbelievers who tremble in fear (cf. Luke 21:25-26). This may be OT imagery of the King of glory entering Jerusalem/temple with the righteous ‒ Psalm 24 YHWH saving, protecting, and bringing His righteous people to Himself ‒ Psalm 118 imagery of Jerusalem's strong wall but gates opened by God for the righteous ‒ Isaiah 26; Rev. 21:25 ▣ "because your redemption is drawing near" Verses 29-36 are built on the promise of Luke 21:28. It shows that Christians amid sufferings still have great confidence. ▣ "redemption" This means "purchased release" (found only here in the Gospels). It is the common OT term for God's gracious acts toward His people. Special Topic: Ransom/Redeem ▣ "is drawing near" This same word is used in Matt. 24:32-33. The parable used in Matt. 24:32-35 and Mark 13:28-32 is also in Luke 21:29-33. Special Topic: Soon Return Special Topic: Temporal Markers in the Olivet Discourse
Lucas 21:29-33
21:29 "He told them a parable" This is also recorded in Matt. 24:32-35 and Mark 13:28-31. The little phrase "and all the trees" is unique to Luke and widens the warning. Although believers cannot know the specific time of Jesus' coming, they can know the general time (cf. Luke 21:30-31). Special Topic: Parable Interpretation 21:31 "the kingdom of God" This refers to God's temporal coming in judgment on Jerusalem. This understanding is possible because of the last phrase, "is near." Special Topic: Kingdom of God "recognize" NKJV, NJB, Peshitta "know" "you know" "you will know" "you may know" The inflected form of "know" can be a PRESENT ACTIVE IMPERATIVE (NASB, NKJV, NJB) PRESENT ACTIVE INDICATIVE (NRSV, TEV, REB) ▣ "is near" Believers cannot know the exact time of Jesus' coming judgment on Jerusalem, even He did not know (cf. Matt. 24:36). They will be surprised by it (cf. Matt. 24:44), but they can know the general season (Matt. 24:32-35; Mark 13:28-31) and be prepared for it. The concept of the soon return has been a problem for Dispensational interpreters because of the 2,000-year gap. They put gaps in several places in prophetic texts so as to fit their eschatological grid, but nothing in the texts themselves warrant this (e.g., Daniel 2). Special Topic: Soon Return 21:32 "Truly I say to you" This is literally, "amen." It is parallel to the idiom found in Luke 21:3. Special Topic: Amen ▣ "this generation will not pass away until all things take place" This is a strong DOUBLE NEGATIVE. There has been much discussion about the interpretation of "this generation" (cf. Matt. 11:16; 12:39,41,42,45; 16:4; 17:17; 23:36; 24:34; Mark 8:12,38; 9:19; 13:30; Luke 7:31; 9:41; 11:29,30,31,32,50,51; 17:25; 21:23). There are two major theories. this refers specifically to the Jewish War in A.D. 66-70, which culminated in the destruction of Jerusalem this phrase is used in its OT sense of a people group in Deut. 32:5,20 Both are true and both fit this context. However, for me, other texts and historical information from Josephus strongly imply this is another time marker related to the soon coming of God's judgment on "those who pierced Him" (cf. Rev. 1:7). 21:33 This is another strong DOUBLE NEGATIVE. It is a powerful affirmation of the eternality of God's promises (cf. Isa. 40:8; 55:11) and is repeated in Luke 16:17 and Matt. 5:18. Believers can trust these unconditional truths. God's word God's character God's promises God's Son God's presence God's purposes Notice the emphasis of the similar wording of Matt. 5:18, which speaks of the fact that the OT has now been superceded by the words of Jesus (cf. Luke 21:21-48)! Jesus is the Father's ultimate and complete revelation of Himself (cf. John 1:1-18; Phil. 2:6-11; Col. 1:15-23; Heb. 1:2-3). Special Topic: Covenant
Lucas 21:34-36
21:34 "Be on guard" This is a PRESENT ACTIVE IMPERATIVE. It is a recurrent warning (cf. Luke 12:40,45 Mark 4:19; Matt. 24:42-44) and is the major thrust of Jesus' eschatological teachings: be ready be watching be active in My service ▣ "hearts" In this context "yourselves" and "hearts" are parallel. Special Topic: The Heart ▣ "weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life" This is addressed to the early Jewish believers. The Christian life is a tension-filled pilgrimage. Many believers have damaged their witness and effective ministry by the temptations and cares of this age. Salvation is not the end of the struggle; sometimes it is the beginning (i.e., Romans 7; Eph. 6:10-19). The parallel of the soils in Mark 4 and Matthew 13 is a shocking witness to the need for fruit bearing and perseverance, not just initial response (germination). Salvation is an ongoing relationship (cf. Matt. 10:32; Mark 13:13), not a ticket to heaven or an insurance policy! Daily choices reveal the heart and the true self. Faithfulness and perseverance are evidence of a free salvation. Special Topic: The Need to Persevere ▣ "and that day will come on you suddenly like a trap" "That day" is an OT idiom for God's visitation for blessing or judgment. Special Topic: That Day Special Topic: The Day of the Lord 21:35 This may be an allusion to Isa. 24:17 in the Septuagint. If so, then the verse division slightly changes. God's coming visitation ("that day," Luke 21:34) will impact all human beings living and dead (i.e., 1 Thess. 4:13-18; Phil. 2:10-11). All will give an account to God of the gift of life (cf. Matt. 25:31-46; 2 Cor. 5:10; Rev. 20:11-15). For those who know God in Christ, it is a day of resurrection, reunion, and rejoicing. But, for those who have not responded to the gospel, it is a day of gloom, doom, rejection, and permanent judgment (separation). Special Topic: The Last Days Special Topic: Septuagint Special Topic: Eternal Punishment (hell) ▣ "those who dwell on the face of all the earth" Verse 36 seems to limit v. 35 in two ways. "earth" (gē) can refer to Palestine Special Topic: Land, Country, Earth "all the things that are about to take place" ‒ This denotes the immediate hearers (i.e., Matt. 24:34). This is one of many time indicators in the Olivet Discourse and the book of Revelation. Jesus' words are directed to that generation, not 2,000+ years in the future! ▣ "and to stand before the Son of Man" At first glance this seems to relate to Matt. 24-25; Rev. 20, but as we have seen, these texts (i.e., the literary unit of Matt. 23-25) refer to the Jewish war (A.D. 66-70). Special Topic: The Son of Man Special Topic: Judgment in the NT Special Topic: The Judgment Seat of Christ 21:36 "keep on the alert at all times" This is a PRESENT ACTIVE IMPERATIVE denoting constant attention (cf. Mark 13:33; Eph. 6:18). This verse reminds me of Eph. 6:19. There is a daily price to be paid! Paul uses a form of this term to describe his suffering for Christ and the gospel in 2 Cor. 6:5 and 11:27. Special Topic: Spiritual Warfare ▣ "praying" This is a PRESENT MIDDLE (deponent) PARTICIPLE used in the sense of an IMPERATIVE. Luke uses this term often in the sense of beseech or pray, Luke 5:12; 8:38; 10:2; 21:36; 22:32; Acts 4:31; 8:22,24; 10:2 beg, Luke 8:28; 9:38,40; Acts 21:39; 26:3 please tell, Acts 8:34 All of these senses are found in the Septuagint. Special Topic: Effective Prayer NASB, NRSV "that you may have strength to escape" "that you may be counted worthy to escape" TEV, REB "that you will have the strength to go safely through" "for the strength to survive" "that you may be worthy to escape" This is a purpose clause (hina) with an AORIST ACTIVE SUBJUNCTIVE (a note of contingency) and an AORIST ACTIVE INFINITIVE. Some believers will be caught unaware and unprepared when the events of the coming siege of Jerusalem rapidly unfold. There is a Greek manuscript variant in this phrase. kataxiōthēte (AORIST PASSIVE SUBJUNCTIVE), "may be judged/counted worthy" (cf. MSS A, C, D; Peshitta, NKJV) katischusēte (AORIST ACTIVE SUBJUNCTIVE), "may have strength" (cf. MSS א, B, L, W and in UBS 4 ; NASB, TEV, REB, NJB)
Lucas 21:37-38
21:37 "during the day He was teaching in the temple" Jesus did not hide or decrease His public ministry (cf. Luke 20:1). These regular teaching sessions took place at Solomon's Portico. ▣ "spend the night on the mount that is called Olivet" This refers to the fact that Jesus camped out on the Mount of Olives several nights and did not spend every night with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus in Bethany. This place was well known to Judas and will be the site of Jesus' arrest. Special Topic: Gethsemane 21:38 This shows Jesus' popularity with both the pilgrims attending the Passover and the local townspeople. This popularity was one of several reasons that caused the religious leaders to fear Him.