Luke 21 Summary The Return of the Son of ManVerses 1–4 – The Widow’s Offering Verses 5–6 – The Temple’s Destruction Foretold Verses 7–19 – Signs Before the End Verses 20–24 – The Siege of Jerusalem Verses 25–28 – The Coming of the Son of Man Verses 29–33 – The Lesson of the Fig Tree Verses 34–38 – Exhortation to Watchfulness Luke 21 presents a powerful discourse from Jesus, shifting from an example of sacrificial giving by a poor widow to prophecies of the Temple's destruction, signs of the End Times, and His Second Coming. Jesus also emphasizes the importance of spiritual vigilance and endurance in the face of trials and persecutions. Historical Background • Herod’s Temple, completed only a few years before Jesus spoke, was coated with white stone and gold. Jewish historian Josephus said its brilliance blinded onlookers at sunrise. Jesus’ prediction of its fall was fulfilled in A.D. 70 when Roman legions under Titus burned and dismantled the complex. • The “times of the Gentiles” (v. 24) cover the era from Jerusalem’s fall to its future restoration, echoed in Romans 11:25 where a partial hardening of Israel remains “until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.” • Earthquakes, famines, and wars marked the late first century: a great famine under Claudius (Acts 11:28), quakes in Laodicea (A.D. 60) and Pompeii (A.D. 62), and the Jewish-Roman conflicts culminating in A.D. 66–70. Cultural Insights • Widows often had no steady income. The widow’s two small coins (Greek lepta) equaled about one-sixty-fourth of a day’s wage. Her gift shows heart, not amount, matters to God (2 Corinthians 8:12). • Offerings were placed in trumpet-shaped chests in the Court of Women. The clink of large coins drew applause; the widow’s two “mites” could easily be ignored—but not by Jesus. • “Flee to the mountains” (v. 21) broke with Jewish custom of finding refuge behind city walls. Christians heeded this directive and escaped to Pella, avoiding much of Jerusalem’s slaughter. Archaeological Notes • Excavations south of the Temple Mount reveal giant stones toppled by Romans. Some weigh 50–80 tons, matching Jesus’ “not one stone left on another.” • An inscription found in 1878 warns Gentiles not to pass the Soreg (inner balustrade) on pain of death—showing Temple boundaries Jesus’ listeners knew. • First-century coin hoards unearthed near the Mount of Olives attest to inhabitants fleeing with valuables, paralleling Luke 21:21. Key Themes and Applications 1. True Worship: God values sacrificial heart over visible wealth (1 Samuel 16:7). 2. Trustworthy Prophecy: Jesus’ precise prediction of the Temple’s destruction assures us His future promises are equally certain. 3. Perseverance in Persecution: “All men will hate you because of Me” (v. 17) echoes 2 Timothy 3:12. The Spirit equips believers to testify (Acts 4:8). 4. Alert Living: Daily choices matter in light of Christ’s return (1 Thessalonians 5:6). 5. Redemption and Judgment: God’s acts in history bring rescue for the faithful and reckoning for the rebellious (Malachi 4:1–2). Connections to Old Testament Prophecy • Daniel 9:26–27 speaks of the sanctuary’s destruction and wars until the end, paralleling Luke 21:6, 20. • Zechariah 12–14 foresees Jerusalem’s siege and the Lord’s ultimate deliverance, matching vv. 20–24 and vv. 25–28. • Joel 2:30–31 describes wonders in the heavens before the “great and awesome day of the LORD,” reflected in v. 25’s cosmic signs. Links to Other New Testament Passages • Matthew 24 and Mark 13 record the same discourse; comparing details sharpens understanding. • 2 Peter 3:10–13 repeats the theme that heavens and earth will pass away but God’s promise stands. • Revelation 6:12–17 shows heavenly signs and people’s terror, paralleling Luke 21:25–26. • Hebrews 10:23–25 urges believers to meet together “all the more as you see the Day approaching,” echoing Jesus’ call to alertness. Practical Takeaways • Give generously even when resources are tight—God sees the heart behind every gift. • Do not anchor hope in buildings, institutions, or economies; only Christ’s words stand forever. • When crises arise, remember Jesus already foretold such events. Panic less, trust more. • Use adversity as a platform to share faith, relying on the Spirit for words. • Live every day ready for Christ’s return—stay prayerful, sober, and kind.
The Poor Widow’s Offering 1Then Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins.a 3“Truly I tell you,” He said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. 4For they all contributed out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.” Temple Destruction and Other Signs 5As some of the disciples were remarking how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and consecrated gifts, Jesus said, 6“As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” 7“Teacher,” they asked, “when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?” 8Jesus answered, “See to it that you are not deceived. For many will come in My name, claiming, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them. 9When you hear of wars and rebellions, do not be alarmed. These things must happen first, but the end is not imminent.” Witnessing to All Nations 10Then He told them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11There will be great earthquakes, famines, and pestilences in various places, along with fearful sights and great signs from heaven. 12But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. On account of My name they will deliver you to the synagogues and prisons, and they will bring you before kings and governors. 13This will be your opportunity to serve as witnesses. 14So make up your mind not to worry beforehand how to defend yourselves. 15For I will give you speech and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. 16You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and some of you will be put to death. 17And you will be hated by everyone because of My name. 18Yet not even a hair of your head will perish. 19By your patient endurance you will gain your souls. The Destruction of Jerusalem 20But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, you will know that her desolation is near. 21Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those in the city get out, and let those in the country stay out of the city. 22For these are the days of vengeance, to fulfill all that is written. 23How miserable those days will be for pregnant and nursing mothers! For there will be great distress upon the land and wrath against this people. 24They will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive into all the nations. And Jerusalem will be trodden down by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. The Return of the Son of Man 25There will be signs in the sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among the nations, bewildered by the roaring of the sea and the surging of the waves. 26Men will faint from fear and anxiety over what is coming upon the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.b 28When these things begin to happen, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” The Lesson of the Fig Tree 29Then Jesus told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. 30When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. 31So also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. 32Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have happened. 33Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away. Be Watchful for the Day 34But watch yourselves, or your hearts will be weighed down by dissipation, drunkenness, and the worries of life—and that day will spring upon you suddenly like a snare. 35For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of all the earth. 36So keep watch at all times, and pray that you may have the strength to escape all that is about to happen and to stand before the Son of Man.” 37Every day Jesus taught at the temple, but every evening He went out to spend the night on the Mount of Olives. 38And early in the morning all the people would come to hear Him at the temple. Footnotes: 2 a Greek two lepta; a lepton was a Jewish coin of bronze or copper worth about 1/128 of a denarius. 27 b See Daniel 7:13–14. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 24:1-31Parallel account of Jesus’ teachings on the end times. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Paul’s exhortation to be watchful and sober as the Day of the Lord approaches. Revelation 1:7 The promise of Jesus’ return and the call for all to be prepared. 2 Peter 3:10-14 Encouragement to live holy and godly lives in anticipation of the Day of the Lord. Teaching Points The Destruction of the TempleJesus foretells the destruction of the temple, emphasizing the impermanence of earthly structures (Luke 21:6). Signs of the End Times Jesus describes various signs that will precede the end times, including wars, earthquakes, famines, and pestilences (Luke 21:10-11). Persecution of Believers Jesus warns His followers that they will face persecution but assures them that this will be an opportunity to bear witness (Luke 21:12-13). The Coming of the Son of Man Jesus speaks of His return with power and great glory, urging believers to be watchful and ready (Luke 21:27-28). The Parable of the Fig Tree Jesus uses the fig tree as a metaphor to teach about recognizing the signs of the times (Luke 21:29-31). Exhortation to Watchfulness Jesus encourages His followers to be vigilant and prayerful, so they may stand before the Son of Man (Luke 21:36). Practical Applications Stay Informed and DiscernBe aware of current events and discern them in light of biblical prophecy. Endure Persecution with Faith Prepare spiritually to face trials and use them as opportunities to testify about your faith. Live Expectantly Cultivate a lifestyle of readiness for Christ’s return, focusing on spiritual growth and holiness. Pray for Strength Regularly seek God’s strength to remain steadfast and faithful amidst challenges. People 1. JesusThe central figure in the chapter, Jesus is teaching in the temple and discussing future events, including the destruction of the temple, signs of the end times, and the coming of the Son of Man. His teachings emphasize vigilance and faithfulness. 2. The Disciples They are present with Jesus and ask Him questions about the timing and signs of the events He describes. The Greek term "μαθηταί" (mathētai) refers to learners or followers, indicating their role as students of Jesus. 3. The Poor Widow Jesus observes a poor widow putting two small coins into the temple treasury and uses her as an example of true generosity and faith. The Greek word "χήρα" (chēra) is used for widow, highlighting her vulnerable social status. 4. The Rich People They are mentioned in contrast to the poor widow, as they give out of their abundance. Their actions serve as a backdrop to highlight the widow's sacrificial giving. 5. Nations and Kingdoms While not specific individuals, Jesus refers to nations and kingdoms in His discourse on future events, indicating the broader scope of His prophecy. The Greek terms "ἔθνη" (ethnē) for nations and "βασιλεῖαι" (basileiai) for kingdoms are used. 6. False Prophets and Messiahs Jesus warns about individuals who will come in His name, claiming to be Him or speaking falsely. The Greek term "ψευδοπροφῆται" (pseudoprophētai) refers to false prophets. 7. The Son of Man A title Jesus uses for Himself, particularly in reference to His return in glory. This term has roots in the Hebrew "בֶּן־אָדָם" (ben-adam), used in the Old Testament, and is significant in eschatological contexts. Places 1. TempleThe chapter begins with Jesus observing people in the temple. The temple, referred to in Greek as "ἱερόν" (hieron), is a central place of worship and sacrifice in Jerusalem. It is significant in Jewish religious life and is the setting for Jesus' teachings in this chapter. 2. Jerusalem Jesus speaks about the future destruction of Jerusalem, a pivotal city in Jewish history and the location of the temple. The Greek term used is "Ἰερουσαλήμ" (Ierousalēm). Jerusalem is central to the prophecies and warnings Jesus gives about the end times. Events 1. The Widow’s Offering (Luke 21:1-4)Jesus observes the rich giving their gifts at the temple treasury and highlights a poor widow who gives two small coins. He emphasizes that she has given more than all the others because she gave out of her poverty, all she had to live on. The Greek term "βίον" (bion) is used here, meaning "life" or "livelihood," underscoring the totality of her sacrifice. 2. Jesus Foretells the Destruction of the Temple (Luke 21:5-6) As some admire the temple's beauty, Jesus prophesies its destruction, stating that not one stone will be left upon another. This prophecy is significant in Christian eschatology, pointing to the eventual destruction of the temple in 70 AD. 3. Signs of the End of the Age (Luke 21:7-11) The disciples ask Jesus about the signs of the end times. He warns of false messiahs, wars, and natural disasters, using the Greek word "σεισμοί" (seismoi) for earthquakes, indicating significant upheavals. 4. Persecution of Believers (Luke 21:12-19) Jesus warns His followers that they will face persecution, imprisonment, and trials for His name's sake. He encourages them not to worry about their defense, as He will give them wisdom. The Greek word "μαρτύριον" (martyrion) is used, meaning "testimony" or "witness," highlighting the purpose of their suffering. 5. The Destruction of Jerusalem (Luke 21:20-24) Jesus describes the siege of Jerusalem, advising those in Judea to flee to the mountains. This passage is often interpreted as a dual prophecy, referring both to the events of 70 AD and future tribulations. 6. The Coming of the Son of Man (Luke 21:25-28) Jesus speaks of cosmic signs and the distress of nations, leading to the coming of the Son of Man in a cloud with power and great glory. The Greek term "δόξα" (doxa) is used for "glory," emphasizing the divine majesty of His return. 7. The Lesson of the Fig Tree (Luke 21:29-33) Jesus uses the fig tree as a parable to illustrate the signs of the times, indicating that when these signs occur, the kingdom of God is near. He assures that His words will never pass away, using the Greek "παρελεύσεται" (pareleusetai), meaning "will pass away," to contrast the eternal nature of His words. 8. Exhortation to Watchfulness (Luke 21:34-36) Jesus warns His followers to be vigilant and not be weighed down by the cares of life, so they may stand before the Son of Man. The Greek word "ἀγρυπνεῖτε" (agrupneite) is used, meaning "be watchful" or "stay awake." 9. Jesus Teaches at the Temple (Luke 21:37-38) The chapter concludes with a description of Jesus teaching daily in the temple, while spending nights on the Mount of Olives. This setting underscores His dedication to teaching and the anticipation of His passion. Lessons from Luke 21 1. Be Watchful and Prepared 2. Recognize the Signs of the Times 3. Do Not Be Deceived 4. Endure Through Trials 5. Trust in God's Provision 6. The Power of Prayer 7. The Certainty of God's Word 8. The Importance of Witnessing 9. The Promise of Redemption 10. Live with Eternal Perspective Topics 1. The Widow’s OfferingJesus observes the rich giving their gifts at the temple and highlights the offering of a poor widow. He notes that she has given more than all the others because she gave out of her poverty. ^“Truly I tell you,” He said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others.”^ (Luke 21:3) 2. The Destruction of the Temple Foretold Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple, emphasizing that not one stone will be left upon another. This prophecy underscores the transient nature of earthly structures. ^“As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.”^ (Luke 21:6) 3. Signs of the End of the Age Jesus describes various signs that will precede the end times, including wars, earthquakes, famines, and pestilences. He warns against being deceived by false prophets. ^“Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.”^ (Luke 21:10) 4. Persecution of Believers Jesus warns His followers that they will face persecution for His name's sake. He encourages them to stand firm and promises that they will gain life through endurance. ^“You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death.”^ (Luke 21:16) 5. The Destruction of Jerusalem Jesus foretells the siege and destruction of Jerusalem, advising those in Judea to flee to the mountains. This prophecy was fulfilled in A.D. 70 with the Roman destruction of Jerusalem. ^“When you see Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, you will know that its desolation is near.”^ (Luke 21:20) 6. The Coming of the Son of Man Jesus speaks of cosmic signs and the coming of the Son of Man in a cloud with power and great glory. This event is associated with the final redemption of believers. ^“At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.”^ (Luke 21:27) 7. The Lesson of the Fig Tree Jesus uses the fig tree as a parable to illustrate the signs of the times. Just as the budding of the fig tree indicates summer is near, so the signs He described indicate that the kingdom of God is near. ^“When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near.”^ (Luke 21:30) 8. Exhortation to Watchfulness Jesus exhorts His followers to be vigilant and prayerful, so they may stand before the Son of Man. He warns against being weighed down by the cares of life. ^“Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.”^ (Luke 21:36) Themes 1. The Widow’s OfferingThis theme highlights the sacrificial giving of a poor widow, contrasting her offering with that of the rich. Jesus observes, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all the others” (Luke 21:3). The Greek word for "more" (πλεῖον, pleion) emphasizes the value of her sacrifice over the quantity. 2. Prophecy of the Temple’s Destruction Jesus foretells the destruction of the temple, saying, “As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another” (Luke 21:6). This prophecy underscores the transient nature of earthly structures and the fulfillment of divine judgment. 3. Signs of the End Times Jesus describes various signs that will precede the end times, including wars, earthquakes, and famines. He warns, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom” (Luke 21:10). The Greek term for "nation" (ἔθνος, ethnos) can also mean "people" or "ethnic group," indicating widespread conflict. 4. Persecution of Believers Jesus warns His followers of impending persecution, stating, “They will seize you and persecute you” (Luke 21:12). This theme emphasizes the cost of discipleship and the call to endure in faith. 5. The Destruction of Jerusalem Jesus provides specific details about the siege of Jerusalem, advising, “When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, you will know that her desolation is near” (Luke 21:20). This prophecy was historically fulfilled in A.D. 70. 6. The Coming of the Son of Man Jesus speaks of His return, saying, “At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory” (Luke 21:27). The imagery of "cloud" (νεφέλη, nephelē) is often associated with divine presence and majesty. 7. The Parable of the Fig Tree Jesus uses the fig tree as a metaphor for recognizing the signs of the times: “When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near” (Luke 21:30). This parable encourages vigilance and discernment. 8. Exhortation to Watchfulness Jesus urges His followers to remain watchful and prayerful, warning, “Be always on the watch, and pray that you may have the strength to escape all that is about to happen” (Luke 21:36). The Greek word for "watch" (ἀγρυπνέω, agrypneō) implies staying awake and alert. Prayer Points Pray for Discernment Ask God for wisdom to understand the signs of the times and to discern His will. Pray for Endurance Pray for Readiness Pray for Boldness As we study Luke 21, may we be encouraged to live with a sense of urgency and purpose, knowing that our redemption is drawing near. Let us remain steadfast in faith, eagerly awaiting the glorious return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Luke 21:6, how can “no stone left on another” be reconciled with historical remains like the Western Wall? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the widow's offering challenge your understanding of sacrificial giving? 2. What lessons can you learn from the prophecy about the Temple's destruction? 3. How do the signs of the End Times that Jesus describes relate to events in our world today? 4. What does Jesus' prediction of persecution mean for Christians today? 5. How should we understand and respond to Jesus' teaching about His Second Coming? 6. In light of Jesus' words about the future, how can we live faithfully in the present? 7. How does Jesus' call to watchfulness challenge you in your spiritual journey? 8. What comfort and hope do you find in Jesus' words about the certainty of redemption? 9. How can you apply the message of endurance and perseverance in your personal life? 10. How should we live our lives knowing that Jesus' return is imminent? 11. How does the message of this chapter help you in facing the trials and uncertainties of life? 12. How can we stay spiritually alert in a world full of distractions and temptations? 13. How can we prepare ourselves for the second coming of Jesus? 14. What can we do to ensure we are not led astray by false prophets or teachings? 15. How does this chapter shape your understanding of eschatology (the study of end times)? 16. What kind of prayer life does Jesus recommend in times of trial? 17. How does Jesus' prophecy about Jerusalem resonate with its current status? 18. How do you interpret the parable of the fig tree in your life context? 19. In what ways does knowing about the second coming of Jesus influence your daily decisions? 20. How can the teachings of this chapter help us to share the Gospel message with others? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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