Luke 21 31

Luke 21:31 kjv

So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.

Luke 21:31 nkjv

So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near.

Luke 21:31 niv

Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.

Luke 21:31 esv

So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near.

Luke 21:31 nlt

In the same way, when you see all these things taking place, you can know that the Kingdom of God is near.

Luke 21 verses

Luke 21 31 Meaning

Luke 21:31 serves as an interpretive key from Jesus for His disciples. He declares that just as one discerns the change of seasons by observing nature, they are to understand the nearness of the Kingdom of God by recognizing the fulfillment of the specific signs He has just outlined. These observable "things taking place" are divinely appointed indicators signaling the progressive approach and ultimate establishment of God's sovereign rule. It imparts assurance that amidst chaotic signs, God's redemptive plan is steadily unfolding towards its glorious culmination in the King's return.

Luke 21 31 Context

Luke 21:31 is part of Jesus' Olivet Discourse, delivered to His disciples on the Mount of Olives just days before His crucifixion. This discourse (Lk 21:5-38) is Jesus' response to questions about the timing of the Temple's destruction and the signs of His coming and the end of the age (Lk 21:7). He outlines various prophetic events: widespread deception (Lk 21:8), wars and natural disasters (Lk 21:9-11), persecution of believers (Lk 21:12-19), the siege and destruction of Jerusalem (Lk 21:20-24), and cosmic disturbances signaling His Second Coming (Lk 21:25-27). Verse 31 directly follows the parable of the fig tree (Lk 21:29-30), which serves as a natural analogy to understand the divine signs. Historically, the listeners understood "the Kingdom of God" from a rich Hebrew heritage, often anticipating a physical, earthly kingdom ruled by Messiah. Jesus progressively refined this understanding, emphasizing its spiritual reign, yet confirming its ultimate eschatological culmination. The "things taking place" include immediate historical events (destruction of Jerusalem) and long-term cosmic events, underscoring both an "already" and "not yet" aspect of God's Kingdom.

Luke 21 31 Word analysis

• So also (οὕτως καί - houtōs kai): This Greek phrase means "in the same way" or "likewise." It directly links this conclusion to the preceding parable of the fig tree, emphasizing that the method of discerning divine timing is analogous to discerning natural seasons. It establishes a pattern for interpretation.
• when you see (ὅταν ἴδητε - hotan idēte): "When" denotes a conditional, temporal observation, while "see" (from horaō) implies more than mere physical sight; it suggests understanding, discernment, and cognitive apprehension of events. Believers are called to actively observe and interpret, not just passively witness.
• these things (ταῦτα - tauta): This plural demonstrative pronoun refers directly back to the cumulative list of signs and tribulations described by Jesus in Lk 21:8-26. These include geopolitical turmoil, natural disasters, persecution of believers, the fall of Jerusalem, and cosmic phenomena. It signifies a series of identifiable developments, not a single event.
• taking place (γινόμενα - ginomena): This is a present participle, implying continuous or ongoing occurrence. It suggests a process, a series of unfolding events that build upon each other, rather than isolated, static moments. The signs are dynamic and observable as history progresses.
• you know (γινώσκετε - ginōskete): From ginōskō, implying experiential or deep, certain knowledge, not just intellectual understanding. This is a divine assurance: based on these signs, one can possess unwavering certainty about the proximity of God's Kingdom.
• that the kingdom of God (ὅτι ἐγγὺς ἐστιν ἡ βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ - hoti engys estin hē basileia tou Theou): This is the ultimate conclusion derived from observing the signs.
  • the kingdom of God (ἡ βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ - hē basileia tou Theou): A central theme in Jesus' teaching. It refers to God's sovereign reign and active rule, manifested both in the present through Jesus' ministry (inaugurated eschatology) and consummated in the future at His second coming. It is God's realm of dominion.
  • is near (ἐγγύς ἐστιν - engys estin): This word means "at hand," "close by," or "imminent." It denotes proximity in time, a drawing near. It conveys the certainty that the consummation of God's redemptive plan and Christ's ultimate kingly manifestation are not distant abstractions but a reality approaching steadily and surely.
• Words-group by words-group analysis:
  • "So also, when you see these things taking place": This phrase establishes an authoritative method of prophetic interpretation based on discerning observable trends and occurrences. It implies a divinely revealed connection between present reality and future eschatology.
  • "you know that the kingdom of God is near": This is the foundational truth revealed by the signs. The certainty ("you know") provides assurance and purpose for believers. The nearness of "the kingdom of God" offers ultimate hope and transforms the context of chaotic events into signs of God's active, approaching sovereignty, culminating in the reign of Christ.

Luke 21 31 Bonus section

• The "Kingdom of God" carries a tension of "already and not yet." It was inaugurated with Christ's first advent, is present in the Church, and will be fully consummated at His Second Coming. The signs in Luke 21:31 point primarily to its future consummation but are observed by those living within its "already" phase.
• While the initial fulfillment of some signs (like the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD) provided validation of Jesus' prophecy, the broader scope of "these things" extends to ultimate end-time events. This dual or layered fulfillment often characterizes biblical prophecy.
• The Olivet Discourse is not merely about predicting the future but primarily about practical instructions for discipleship: how to live, what to expect, and how to prepare while awaiting the Master's return. The knowledge of the Kingdom's nearness fosters endurance and vigilance rather than speculative date-setting.

Luke 21 31 Commentary

Luke 21:31 presents Jesus' interpretive blueprint for understanding the end times, integrating seemingly chaotic global events into a divine narrative. Rather than being subjects of fear, the "things taking place" (the tribulations, cosmic disturbances, and societal distress detailed earlier) become signals for those with spiritual discernment. Jesus uses a common, agricultural analogy (the fig tree budding for summer) to illustrate that discerning divine timing is as straightforward for those who observe rightly. The profound certainty ("you know") that "the kingdom of God is near" offers comfort and stability amidst tumultuous times. This does not mean pinpointing a specific date but rather acknowledging the approaching climax of God's plan. It transforms mere observation into active recognition, calling believers to vigilant expectation and unwavering faithfulness as God's ultimate reign draws ever closer. Practically, this calls for readiness in heart and deed, active witness, and perseverance in prayer (as Lk 21:36 advises), grounded in the sure hope of the King's return and the full establishment of His righteous Kingdom.