In these verses, Jesus prophesies the impending destruction of Jerusalem and warns His followers to flee when they see the city surrounded by armies.
- Meaning and Significance:
Prediction of Jerusalem's Desolation: Jesus begins by predicting the desolation of Jerusalem. He foretells a time when the city will be surrounded by hostile armies. This prophecy aligns with historical events, particularly the Roman siege of Jerusalem in AD 70, which led to the destruction of the city and the Second Temple.
Call to Action: In response to the imminent danger, Jesus instructs those in Judea to flee to the mountains. He emphasizes the urgency of the situation by advising them to depart immediately. Additionally, He warns those in the countryside not to enter the city, likely to avoid getting caught up in the impending destruction.
Days of Vengeance: Jesus characterizes the period of Jerusalem's destruction as "days of vengeance." This phrase implies that these events are part of God's judgment for various reasons, including the rejection of Jesus as the Messiah and the city's rebellion against Roman authority.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus mentions that these events are unfolding to fulfill what was written in the Scriptures. This underscores the idea that God's plan and purposes, as revealed in the Old Testament prophecies, are being carried out through these historical events.
- Context and Relevance:
Luke 21 is part of a larger passage where Jesus provides His disciples with insights into future events, including the signs of the end times and the destruction of Jerusalem. This discourse is known as the "Olivet Discourse" and is found in varying forms in the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke).
While Luke 21:20-22 specifically addresses the events surrounding the destruction of Jerusalem in the first century, it carries important lessons and applications for believers today:
Spiritual Awareness: The passage encourages believers to be spiritually discerning and aware of the signs of the times. It reminds us that God's purposes are continually unfolding, and we should seek to understand His will.
Trust in God's Guidance: Jesus' instructions to flee emphasize the importance of trusting in God's guidance during times of crisis. Believers are called to rely on God's wisdom and protection.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: The fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the New Testament underscores the reliability and truth of God's Word. It serves as a reminder that God's plans are accomplished throughout history.
Preparation and Obedience: Just as Jesus urged swift action in response to the impending danger, believers are encouraged to be obedient to God's guidance and prepared to respond to life's challenges in a way that aligns with His will.
Cross References:
Matthew 24:15-16 records a similar prophecy by Jesus: "When, therefore, you see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains." This parallel passage reinforces the urgency of fleeing when witnessing signs of desolation.
Daniel 9:26 contains a prophecy about the destruction of Jerusalem: "After the sixty-two weeks the Anointed One will be cut off and will have nothing. The people of the prince who shall come will destroy the city and the sanctuary." This verse from the Old Testament aligns with Jesus' prediction of Jerusalem's destruction.
In conclusion, Luke 21:20-22 is a prophetic passage in which Jesus predicts the desolation of Jerusalem and provides instructions for those who witness these events. While it has historical significance, it also carries timeless lessons about spiritual discernment, trust in God, and the fulfillment of God's plans.
Luke 21:20-22. “When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is at hand. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let those who are in the middle of her depart. Let those who are in the country not enter therein. For these are days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.”