Introduction: Luke 21 is where Jesus foretells about the destruction of the temple and signs of the last days, stressing the importance to believers worldwide to be ready at all times for His return. We will look closer at Luke 21 and break the chapter down into verse sections that talk about the same topic, to see what is the message Jesus is speaking to the world, and consider how it relates to us today in year 2024.
I. Luke 21:1-4 – The Widow’s Offering
At the Temple, Jesus observes the rich and a widow making their offerings. The widow’s two small coins, though meager, are of greater worth in the divine perspective as she gave out of her poverty, meaning she really didn’t have anything to give, reminding us of Proverbs 22:9, which reminds us that it’s not about the amount we give but the heart’s condition, as emphasized in 2 Corinthians 9:7.
II. Luke 21:5-6 – The Destruction of the Temple Foretold
Jesus prophesies about the Temple’s destruction, an event later fulfilled in 70 AD by the Romans. This prophecy, similar to Daniel 9:26, shows that Jesus is omniscience and reminds believers of the temporary nature of earthly things, as highlighted in Matthew 24:35.
III. Luke 21:7-19 – Signs of the Last Days
Jesus speaks on the signs of the end times, including wars, earthquakes, and persecutions, which brings to mind Matthew 24:6-8, which is the clearest outline of end times events given by Jesus. He encourages believers everywhere to be persistent in their faith, promising eternal life, this lines up with the verse, John 16:33.
IV. Luke 21:20-24 – The Desolation of Jerusalem
Jesus foretells the attack on Jerusalem and the scattering of the Jews, events that occurred in 70 AD. This account is somewhat like the prophecy in Deuteronomy 28:64, underlining the seriousness of disobeying God’s commands.
V. Luke 21:25-28 – Signs in the Sun, Moon, and Stars
Jesus describes some of the heavenly signs that will take place before His return. As in Isaiah 13:10, these signs symbolize God’s judgement is close. Still at the same time, for those who believe, this is a signal of redemption, as mentioned in Romans 8:23.
VI. Luke 21:29-33 – The Parable of the Fig Tree
Jesus uses the fig tree’s budding leaves as an example for recognizing that the time for all to end is near, much like to Matthew 24:32-33. He gives us reassurance in that even thought the world falls, His words will stand forever, showing the permanence of His word in Isaiah 40:8.
VII. Luke 21:34-36 – The Need for Watchfulness
Jesus warns against complacency in your spirituality, and urges watchfulness and prayer. As in 1 Peter 5:8, being ready is important in spiritual matters, and as in Philippians 4:6, prayer is of utmost importance to a believer’s life, as this is the only way we have to speak to God. He does want to have a personal relationship with each and everyone of us, and prayer is a gigantic part of that relationship
Conclusion: Luke 21 is a call to live in the state of spiritual readiness, recognizing the signs, and remaining steadfast in faith. It relays the transient nature of earthly things, the inevitability of God’s judgement, and the assurance of His word. Above all, it points out the importance of a giving heart, watchfulness, prayer, and perseverance in the face of trials. As believers, these lessons should be a guide for us in a dark world, as await Christ’s return.
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