TRV
Translation
King James Version
Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?
Complete Jewish Bible
Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky — how is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?
Berean Standard Bible
You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and sky. Why don’t you know how to interpret the present time?
American Standard Version
Ye hypocrites, ye know how to interpret the face of the earth and the heaven; but how is it that ye know not how to interpret this time?
World English Bible Messianic
You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky, but how is it that you don’t interpret this time?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Hypocrites, ye can discerne the face of the earth, and of the skie: but why discerne ye not this time?
Young's Literal Translation
hypocrites! the face of the earth and of the heaven ye have known to make proof of, but this time--how do ye not make proof of it ?
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In the KJVVerse 25,516 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on Luke 12 verses 54–59
54 ¶ And he said also to the people, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower; and so it is.
55 And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass.
56 Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?
57 Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?
58 When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison.
59 I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite.
I. II. Main points1. 2. Sub-points
Having given his disciples their lesson in the foregoing verses, here Christ turns to the people, and gives them theirs, Luk 12:54. He said also to the people: he preached ad populum - to the people, as well as ad clerum - to the clergy. In general, he would have them be as wise in the affairs of their souls as they are in their outward affairs. Two things he specifies: -
I. Let them learn to discern the way of God towards them, that they may prepare accordingly. They were weather-wise, and by observing the winds and clouds could foresee when there would be rain and when there would be hot weather (Luk 12:54, Luk 12:55); and, according as they foresaw the weather would be, they either housed their hay and corn, or threw it abroad, and equipped themselves for a journey? Even in regard to changes of the weather God gives warning to us what is coming, and art has improved the notices of nature in weather-glasses. The prognostications here referred to had their origin in repeated observations upon the chain of causes: from what has been we conjecture what will be. See the benefit of experience; by taking notice we may come to give notice. Whose is wise will observe and learn. See now.
1.The particulars of the presages: "When you see a cloud arising out of the west" (the Hebrew would say, out of the sea), "perhaps it is at first no bigger than a man's hand (Kg1 18:44), but you say, There is a shower in the womb of it, and it proves so. When you observe the south wind blow, you say, There will be heat" (for the hot countries of Africa lay not far south from Judea), "and it usually comes to pass;" yet nature has not ties itself to such a track but that sometimes we are mistaken in our prognostics.
2.The inferences from them (Luk 12:56): "Ye hypocrites, who pretend to be wise, but really are not so, who pretend to expect the Messiah and his kingdom" (for so the generality of the Jews did) "and yet are no way disposed to receive and entertain it, how is it that you do not discern this time, that you do not discern that now is the time, according to the indications given in the Old Testament prophecies, for the Messiah to appear, and that, according to the marks given of him, I am he? Why are you not aware that you have now an opportunity which you will not have long, and which you may never have again, of securing to yourselves an interest in the kingdom of God and the privileges of that kingdom?" Now is the accepted time, now or never. It is the folly and misery of man that he knows not his time, Ecc 9:12. This was the ruin of the men of that generation, that they knew not the day of their visitation, Luk 19:44. But a wise man's heart discerns time and judgment; such was the wisdom of the men of Issachar, who had understanding of the times, Ch1 12:32. He adds, "Yea, and why even of yourselves, though ye had not these loud alarms given you, judge ye not what is right? Luk 12:57. You are not only stupid and regardless in matters that are purely of divine revelation, and take not the hints which that gives you, but you are so even in the dictates of the very light and law of nature." Christianity has reason and natural conscience on its side; and, if men would allow themselves the liberty of judging what is right, they would soon find that all Christ's precepts concerning all things are right, and that there is nothing more equitable in itself, nor better becoming us, than to submit to them and be ruled by them.
II. Let them hasten to make their peace with God in time, before it be too late, Luk 12:58, Luk 12:59. This we had upon another occasion, Mat 5:25, Mat 5:26. 1. We reckon it our wisdom in our temporal affairs to compound with those with whom we cannot contend, to agree with our adversary upon the best terms we can, before the equity be foreclosed, and we be left to the rigour of the law: "When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, to whom the appeal is made, and knowest that he has an advantage against thee, and thou art in danger of being cast, thou knowest it is the most prudent course to make the matter up between yourselves; as thou art in the way, give diligence to be delivered from him, to get a discharge, lest judgment be given, and execution awarded according to law." Wise men will not let their quarrels go to an extremity, but accommodate them in time. 2. Let us do thus in the affairs of our souls. We have by sin made God our adversary, have provoked his displeasure against us, and he has both right and might on his side; so that it is to no purpose to think of carrying on the controversy with him either at bar or in battle. Christ, to whom all judgment is committed, is the magistrate before whom we are hastening to appear: if we stand a trial before him, and insist upon our own justification, the cause will certainly go against us, the Judge will deliver us to the officer, the ministers of his justice, and we shall be cast into the prison of hell, and the debt will be exacted to the utmost; though we cannot make a full satisfaction for it, it will be continually demanded, till the last mite be paid, which will not be to all eternity. Christ's sufferings were short, yet the value of them made them fully satisfactory. In the sufferings of damned sinners what is wanting in value must be made up in an endless duration. Now, in consideration of this, let us give diligence to be delivered out of the hands of God as an adversary, into his hands as a Father, and this as we are in the way, which has the chief stress laid upon it here. While we are alive, we are in the way; and now is our time, by repentance and faith through Christ (who is the Mediator as well as the magistrate), to get the quarrel made up, while it may be done, before it be too late. Thus was God in Christ reconciling the world to himself, beseeching us to be reconciled. Let us take hold on the arm of the Lord stretched out in this gracious offer, that we may make peace, and we shall make peace (Isa 27:4, Isa 27:5), for we cannot walk together till we be agreed.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 54–59. Public domain.
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TertullianAD 220
Against Marcion Book IV
Since this battle among the relatives was sung by the prophet's trumpet in the very words, I fear that Micah must have predicted it to Marcion's Christ! On this account He pronounced them "hypocrites," because they could "discern the face of the sky and the earth, but could not distinguish this time," when of course He ought to have been recognised, fulfilling (as he was) all things which had been predicted concerning them, and teaching them so.
Basil of Caesarea (as quoted by Aquinas, AD 1274)AD 379
Catena Aurea by Aquinas
(in Hexam. Hom. 6, 4.) Now we must observe, that conjectures concerning the stars are necessary to the life of man, as long as we do lot push our searches into their signs beyond due limits. For it is possible to discover some things with respect to coming rain, still more concerning heat and the force of the winds, whether partial or universal, stormy or gentle. But the great advantage that is rendered to life by these conjectures is known to every one. For it is of importance to the sailor to prognosticate the dangers of storms, to the traveller the changes of the weather, to the husbandman the abundant supply of his fruits.
Cyril of Alexandria (as quoted by Aquinas, AD 1274)AD 444
Catena Aurea by Aquinas
For the prophets have in many ways foretold the mystery of Christ; it became them therefore, if they were wise, to stretch their prospect beyond to the future, nor will ignorance of the time to come avail them after the present life. For there will be wind and rain, and a future punishment by fire; and this is signified when it is said, A shower cometh. It became them also not to be ignorant of the time of salvation, that is, the coming of the Saviour, through whom perfect piety entered into the world. And this is meant when it is said, Ye say that there will be heat. Whence it follows in censure of them, Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and the earth, but how is it that ye do not discern this time?
Cyril of AlexandriaAD 444
COMMENTARY ON LUKE, HOMILY 95
People focus their attention on things of this kind. From long observation and practice they tell beforehand when rain will fall or violent winds will blow. One especially sees that sailors are very skillful in this matter. He says that it would be suitable for those who can calculate things of this sort and may foretell storms that are about to happen to focus the penetrating eyes of the mind also on important matters. What are these? The law showed beforehand the mystery of Christ, that he would shine out in the last ages of the world on the inhabitants of the earth and submit to be a sacrifice for the salvation of all. It even commanded a lamb to be sacrificed as a type of him who died towards evening and at lighting of lamps. We might now understand that when, like the day, this world was declining to its close, the great, precious and truly saving passion would be fulfilled. The door of salvation would be thrown wide open to those who believe in him, and abundant happiness be their share. In the Song of Songs, we also find Christ calling to the bride described there. The bride personally represents the church, in these words, “Arise, come, my neighbor, my beautiful dove. Look, the winter is past, and the rain is gone. It has passed away. The flowers appear on the ground. The time of the pruning has come.” As I said, a certain springlike calm was about to arise for those who believe in him.
Bede (as quoted by Aquinas, AD 1274)AD 735
Catena Aurea by Aquinas
Or, they who from the change of the elements can easily when they like predetermine the state of the weather, might if they wished also understand the time of our Lord's coming from the words of the Prophets.
But lest any of the people should allege their ignorance of the prophetical books as a reason why they could not discern the courses of the times, He carefully adds, And why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right, showing them that although unlearned they might still by their natural ability discern Him, who did works such as none other man did, to be above man, and to be God, and that therefore after the injustice of this world, the just judgment of the creation would come.
BedeAD 735
On the Gospel of Luke
Hypocrites, you know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. But how is it that you do not know how to interpret this time? We have briefly touched upon what is mystically signified by the cloud and the south wind. But the literal sense is also clear, because those who from the change of elements could easily predict the state of the weather as they wished, could also, if they wanted, understand this time, that is, the first or second coming of the Lord (for he had warned about both) from the words of the prophets, who have clearly indicated both with the most evident signs, either of things or of years. And lest anyone from the crowd perhaps flatter themselves with their ignorance and plead that they, being unlearned and ignorant of the prophetic readings, could not interpret the course of the times, he vigilantly adds.
Theophylact of Ohrid (as quoted by Aquinas, AD 1274)AD 1107
Catena Aurea by Aquinas
When He spoke about preaching, and called it a sword, His hearers may have been troubled, not knowing what He meant. And therefore our Lord adds, that as men determine the state of the weather by certain signs, so ought they to know His coming. And this is what he means by saying, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower. And when ye see the south wind blowing, ye say, There will be heat, &c. As if He says, Your words and works show me to be opposed to you. Ye may therefore suppose that I came not to give peace, but the storm and whirlwind. For I am a cloud, and I come out of the west, that is, from human nature; which has been long since clothed with the thick darkness of sin. I came also to send fire, that is, to stir up heat. For I am the strong south wind, opposed to the northern coldness.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
In Luke 12:56, Jesus issues a sharp and direct rebuke to the crowds, including the religious leaders, for their profound spiritual blindness. He contrasts their astute ability to interpret natural weather patterns and earthly signs with their utter failure to discern the critical, divinely appointed "time" of His ministry and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan right before their eyes. This indictment highlights a dangerous disconnect between outward knowledge and inward spiritual understanding, exposing a deep-seated hypocrisy.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Luke 12:56 employs several powerful literary devices. The most prominent is Irony, as Jesus highlights the stark contrast between the crowds' ability to interpret natural phenomena and their inability to discern the far more significant spiritual "signs of the times." This creates a poignant and cutting critique of their misplaced priorities and spiritual dullness. The phrase "face of the sky and of the earth" uses Personification, subtly giving the natural world a "face" that can be read, further emphasizing the human capacity for interpretation. The entire verse is structured as a Rhetorical Question, "but how is it that ye do not discern this time?" This question is not seeking information but is a forceful accusation, designed to provoke self-reflection and expose their spiritual negligence. Finally, the Repetition of the verb "discern" (G1381, dokimázō) underscores the central theme of spiritual perception and the profound failure of the audience in this crucial area.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 12:56 serves as a profound theological statement on the necessity of spiritual discernment and the danger of spiritual apathy. It reveals that intellectual capacity in worldly matters does not automatically translate into spiritual understanding. The "signs of the times" that Jesus refers to were not obscure prophecies but His very presence, His teachings, and His miracles, which clearly pointed to the arrival of God's kingdom. The failure to discern these signs was not an innocent oversight but a culpable blindness rooted in hypocrisy and a resistance to the truth. This passage challenges believers across all ages to cultivate a spiritual sensitivity that actively seeks to understand God's work in their present moment, rather than being distracted by worldly concerns or preconceived notions. It underscores the urgency of responding to God's call, as opportunities for spiritual growth and repentance are not indefinite.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jesus' piercing question in Luke 12:56 remains profoundly relevant for believers today. It challenges us to examine our own spiritual acuity: are we, like those in Jesus' day, highly skilled in navigating the complexities of our earthly lives—our careers, finances, social dynamics, or technological advancements—yet spiritually dull and unresponsive to God's active presence and call? This verse is a powerful summons to cultivate genuine spiritual awareness, to move beyond a superficial understanding of faith, and to actively seek to discern God's will and work in our personal lives, our communities, and the broader world. It calls us to be vigilant, not in a speculative way about future events, but in recognizing the "kairos" moments God presents to us now—opportunities for repentance, service, witness, and deeper communion with Him. Guarding against complacency and spiritual apathy is crucial, ensuring that we are truly discerning the spiritual realities around us and living in a state of readiness for whatever God calls us to, and ultimately, for the return of Christ.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who are the "hypocrites" Jesus is addressing in this verse?
Answer: While Jesus is speaking to the "crowds" in Luke 12:54, His use of the term "hypocrites" is often directed at the religious leaders and those who outwardly professed piety but lacked genuine spiritual insight or a willingness to believe in Him. It's a broad indictment of anyone who could keenly observe natural signs but remained spiritually blind to the profound significance of His ministry and the dawning of God's kingdom. It suggests a pretense of spiritual understanding that was not matched by true discernment.
What does Jesus mean by "this time" that they fail to discern?
Answer: "This time" (Greek: kairos) refers to the unique, divinely appointed, and critical epoch of Jesus' earthly ministry. It signifies the period when the Messiah had arrived, the Kingdom of God was being inaugurated, and God's long-promised redemptive plan was unfolding. It was a pivotal moment in salvation history, characterized by Jesus' teachings, miracles, and His very presence. Their failure to discern "this time" meant they missed the profound spiritual significance of God's direct intervention in human history through His Son.
Is Jesus condemning the act of observing and understanding natural phenomena?
Answer: No, Jesus is not condemning the ability to observe and understand natural phenomena like weather patterns. In fact, He acknowledges and implicitly affirms their skill in this area. His point is not that such discernment is bad, but that their ability to apply keen observation to earthly matters stood in stark contrast to their inability or unwillingness to apply similar discernment to spiritual matters of infinitely greater importance. He uses their natural wisdom as a baseline to highlight their spiritual deficiency, emphasizing that if they can interpret the lesser, they should certainly be able to interpret the greater.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 12:56, though a sharp rebuke, ultimately points to Christ as the ultimate "sign" and the fulfillment of all "times." The people's failure to discern "this time" was fundamentally a failure to discern Jesus Himself—His true identity as the promised Messiah, the Son of God, and the very embodiment of God's redemptive plan. He was the "sign of Jonah" (Luke 11:29-30), the one through whom the Kingdom of God had come near (Luke 17:20-21). Their spiritual blindness to His first coming foreshadows a continuing need for discernment regarding His ongoing work through the Holy Spirit (John 16:13) and the signs pointing to His glorious second coming (Matthew 24:3-14). For believers, discerning "this time" means recognizing Jesus as Lord, living in light of His finished work on the cross (Colossians 2:13-14), and being prepared for His return by living faithfully and watchfully (Philippians 3:20-21). Jesus is not just a sign among many, but the very "alpha and omega" (Revelation 22:13) around whom all of history, and every "kairos" moment, revolves.