Luke 21:10-38
Today’s Passage: Luke 21:10-38
This section in Luke today can be summarized as a type of Messianic prophecy. Right out of the gate, this is what Jesus says will happen.
There will be:
Verse 13 describes what these seasons of suffering could accomplish: “This will be your opportunity to bear witness.”
But even in the midst of this suffering, Jesus gives a promise that he will be with them, walk with them, and offer ultimate protection. What Jesus is saying here is that even though there might be physical suffering, there will be a spiritual victory because of what Christ has done.
This reminds us what Jesus promises in the Great Commission: “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
The presence of Jesus while we are on mission—in the midst of suffering and persecution—is a consistent thread throughout the New Testament. No matter what it feels like you are walking through, Jesus is walking with you.
What are we to do with these pressures of living on mission?
34 “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. 35 For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Jesus wants us to watch ourselves while we live on mission. Be aware of the temptations of sin in your life, watch and pray that God would give you strength to overcome them, and help you maintain a proper focus on God in the midst of the hardships of life.
Written By: Graham Withers
This section in Luke today can be summarized as a type of Messianic prophecy. Right out of the gate, this is what Jesus says will happen.
There will be:
- War
- Earthquakes
- Famines/pestilence
- Persecution
Verse 13 describes what these seasons of suffering could accomplish: “This will be your opportunity to bear witness.”
But even in the midst of this suffering, Jesus gives a promise that he will be with them, walk with them, and offer ultimate protection. What Jesus is saying here is that even though there might be physical suffering, there will be a spiritual victory because of what Christ has done.
This reminds us what Jesus promises in the Great Commission: “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
The presence of Jesus while we are on mission—in the midst of suffering and persecution—is a consistent thread throughout the New Testament. No matter what it feels like you are walking through, Jesus is walking with you.
What are we to do with these pressures of living on mission?
34 “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. 35 For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Jesus wants us to watch ourselves while we live on mission. Be aware of the temptations of sin in your life, watch and pray that God would give you strength to overcome them, and help you maintain a proper focus on God in the midst of the hardships of life.
Written By: Graham Withers
1 Comment
This passage is so on target in the era we live in! I believe we are living close to the endtimes. There is so much happening. As Ephesians 6 says, "Put on the full armor of God." It is critical to pray and keep in the Word. I continue to pray for lost relatives and friends that they accept the Gospel.