Notes on Luke 21:29-24:53

Luke 21:29-31

The end will be evident by the signs seen by the disciples just as the oncoming of summer is evident by the evidence of the change in trees. parable. See note on 8:4. kingdom. See note on 4:43.

Luke 21:32

generation. This word has various interpretations. The most likely meaning would be the generation alive when Jesus spoke these words. The term can also be translated "race" or "age." Those that see the signs of the end will also see the end itself. Christ will come quickly (12:35-40).

Luke 21:33

Jesus' disciples can trust what he says because his word is permanent (see Isa. 40:8).

Luke 21:34

Jesus said that his return would be delayed. One of the temptations for his disciples would be to grow careless and indifferent while they waited for him. In every age, his people are tempted to grow comfortable in this world, rather than expectant for Jesus' return (see 8:14; 12:13-34; 17:26-30).

Luke 21:35-36

See WLC 88.

Luke 21:35

Jesus' return will not be revealed in secret or to a select few only. All will see him (Rev. 1:7).

Luke 21:36

In order to keep watch over themselves, believers should be alert and faithfully keep praying for strength from God (Rom. 12:12; Eph. 6:18; 1 Thess. 1:2; 2:13; 5:17; 1 Pet. 4:7). Son of Man. Jesus as the divine king over all things (see note on 5:22-24).

Luke 21:37-38

Luke revealed Jesus' heart in these final verses. Despite controversy and opposition by Israel's leaders, Jesus loved the people. He showed that love by continually teaching them God's word (19:47; 21:37; 22:53; see 4:4).

The Final Days of Jesus' Ministry in Jerusalem - Luke 22:1-24:53

The high point of Jesus' ministry was his sacrificial death on the cross (23:44-49), his triumphant resurrection (24:1-12), and ascension as Lord (24:50-53).

Jesus' Arrest, Trial, and Crucifixion - Luke 22:1–23:56

Luke helped his readers feel the tension of Jesus' approaching death. The long desired plans of the Jewish leaders to stop Jesus were being fulfilled. This tragically happened as one of Jesus' own disciples betrayed him. Yet, this was the fulfillment of God's plan as well.

Luke 22:1

Festival of Unleavened Bread. Annual Jewish festival that followed Passover, beginning on fifteenth day of the first month and lasted a week (see Exod. 12:16-19; Lev. 23:4-8; Acts 12:3). Passover. See note on 2:41-42. Since the Passover immediately followed the Festival of Unleavened Bread, both ceremonies were described as the Passover.

Luke 22:2

See notes on Luke 19:47-48. chief priests. See note on 19:47. scribes. See note on 5:17.

Luke 22:3-4

Satan. See note on 4:2. Part of Jesus' ministry was an attack on Satan's domain (11:20-22; Col. 1:13-14). Now, Satan actively attacks. He found the opportunity he wanted (4:13). Judas. Was not a believer who fell away (1 John 2:19). Judas never believed, and his lack of faith invited Satan's involvement (see John 6:64, 70). Judas was not forced to betray Jesus. He made a choice to give into Satan's design and was held responsible for his actions along with the Jewish leader (v. 4-6, 22; Mark 14:21; John 13:2, 27; Acts 2:23). He also felt the weight of his own guilt (Matt. 27:3-5). twelve. See note on 6:13.

Luke 22:4

chief priests. See note on 19:47. captains. Likely those in charge of the temple guards who would arrest Jesus (vv. 52-54). betray. The Bible never tells us why Judas betrayed Jesus. It only says that he went to the Jewish leaders planning to betray him (Mark 14:10).

Related Resources

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.