Luke 21:31
What does Luke 21:31 mean?
A plain-English look at Luke 21:31 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Luke 21:31 means
Applying the parable, Jesus tells His disciples, "Even so ye also, when ye see these things coming to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh." Just as the budding trees undeniably signal summer, the prophesied signs—wars, natural disasters, persecution, and cosmic disturbances—will unmistakably indicate the imminent establishment of God's kingdom in its fullness. This reiterates the importance of spiritual discernment and reinforces the certainty of Christ's return and reign.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Even so ye also, when ye see these things coming to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh.
KJV
King James Version · 1611So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Even so ye also, when ye see these things coming to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949In the same way, when you see these things taking place you may be certain that the kingdom of God is near.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862so also ye, when ye may see these things happening, ye know that near is the reign of God;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752So you also, when you shall see these things come to pass, know that the kingdom of God is at hand.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890So also ye, when ye see these things take place, know that the kingdom ofGod is near.
Context
This verse provides the direct application of the fig tree parable explained in verses 29-30. It draws a clear parallel between natural seasonal signs and the prophetic signs of the end times, showing how believers are to interpret these events. This conclusion of the parable reinforces the certainty of the coming Kingdom of God, leading directly into Jesus' solemn assurance about the fulfillment of His words regarding this generation and ultimate divine fidelity in verses 32-33.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Hebrews 10:37
For yet a very little while, He that cometh shall come, and shall not tarry.
- Matthew 16:1
And the Pharisees and Sadducees came, and trying him asked him to show them a sign from heaven.
- Matthew 3:2
Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
- Luke 12:51
Think ye that I am come to give peace in the earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:
- James 5:9
Murmur not, brethren, one against another, that ye be not judged: behold, the judge standeth before the doors.
- 1 Peter 4:7
But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore of sound mind, and be sober unto prayer:
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