Luke 17:21

KJV

Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

KJV (with Strong's)

Neither {G3761} shall they say {G2046}, Lo {G2400} here {G5602}! or {G2228}, lo {G2400} there {G1563}! for {G1063}, behold {G2400}, the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316} is {G2076} within {G1787} you {G5216}.

Complete Jewish Bible

nor will people be able to say, ‘Look! Here it is!’ or, ‘Over there!’ Because, you see, the Kingdom of God is among you.”

Berean Standard Bible

Nor will people say, ‘Look, here it is,’ or ‘There it is.’ For you see, the kingdom of God is in your midst.”

American Standard Version

neither shall they say, Lo, here! or, There! for lo, the kingdom of God is within you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 17:21 encapsulates Jesus' radical redefinition of the Kingdom of God, correcting the prevailing expectation of a visible, external, or politically manifest reign. Instead, Jesus declares that God's sovereign rule is not a spectacle to be pointed out in a specific location ("Lo here! or, lo there!") but is a present reality, intimately accessible and active either within the hearts of those who receive it or dynamically present among them through His own person and ministry. This statement challenges a purely eschatological or geographical understanding of the Kingdom, emphasizing its spiritual and immanent nature.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of Jesus' discourse to the Pharisees concerning the coming of the Kingdom of God, immediately following their direct inquiry in [Luke 17:20](/luke/17-20 "Luke 17:20 - The Coming of the Kingdom"). The Pharisees, like many Jews of their time, anticipated a dramatic, visible, and perhaps politically revolutionary arrival of God's Kingdom. Jesus' response in [Luke 17:20-21](/luke/17-20-21 "Luke 17:20-21 - The Kingdom of God Is Not Observable") directly challenges this expectation, asserting that the Kingdom does not come with observable signs or a fanfare that can be announced. He then shifts to a more internal or immanent understanding, which he elaborates further for his disciples in the subsequent verses ([Luke 17:22-37](/luke/17-22-37 "Luke 17:22-37 - The Days of the Son of Man")). This particular verse, [Luke 17:21](/luke/17-21 "Luke 17:21 - The Kingdom Within"), serves as the pivotal statement in His correction of the Pharisees' misconception.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Judaism was deeply steeped in messianic expectation, often intertwined with hopes for national liberation from Roman rule and the restoration of an earthly Davidic kingdom. The concept of the "Kingdom of God" (or "Kingdom of Heaven" in Matthew) was central to Jewish eschatology, generally envisioned as a future, geopolitical reality ushered in by the Messiah, marked by divine intervention, judgment of the Gentiles, and Israel's exaltation. People were looking for signs, events, and specific locations where this new era would begin. Jesus' teaching here directly confronts this prevalent worldview, indicating that the Kingdom's nature and arrival deviate significantly from popular understanding. His words would have been counter-cultural and challenging to those who expected a visible, external revolution.

* **Key Themes:** The primary theme of [Luke 17:21](/luke/17-21 "Luke 17:21 - The Kingdom Within") is the **nature and location of the Kingdom of God**. Jesus consistently proclaimed the "good news of the Kingdom" ([Luke 4:43](/luke/4-43 "Luke 4:43 - Preaching the Kingdom")) throughout His ministry, but His understanding of it often diverged from popular Jewish expectations. This verse highlights that the Kingdom is not merely a future, external, or geographically bound entity. It is a present reality, active and accessible. This theme is foundational to understanding Jesus' entire ministry, which inaugurated the Kingdom not through political overthrow but through spiritual transformation and the demonstration of God's power over sin, sickness, and death. The Kingdom's presence is intrinsically linked to Jesus' person and the spiritual reign He establishes, as seen in passages like [Luke 11:20](/luke/11-20 "Luke 11:20 - Kingdom of God Has Come Upon You").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **behold (Greek, _idoú'_):** This interjection, used three times in the verse ("Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold,"), serves as an imperative to draw attention. It functions as a dramatic marker, highlighting what is about to be revealed or emphasized. In the context of "Lo here! or, lo there!", it points to the futility of seeking the Kingdom in a physically observable, external manner. When Jesus uses it ("for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you"), it signals a profound and counter-intuitive revelation about the Kingdom's true nature and location.
* **kingdom (Greek, _basileía'_):** This term denotes royalty, rule, or a realm. In the New Testament, "the kingdom of God" refers to God's sovereign reign and the sphere in which His rule is exercised. It is not merely a geographical territory but the dynamic exercise of God's kingly authority. Jesus' teaching consistently redefines this concept, moving beyond a purely nationalistic or earthly political understanding to encompass a spiritual, present, and transformative reality that culminates in a future, visible reign.
* **within (Greek, _entós'_):** This preposition means "inside" or "within." Its precise interpretation in this verse is crucial and has been debated. It can mean "in the midst of" or "among" (referring to the presence of Jesus as the King in their midst, or the community of believers), or "inside" (referring to the spiritual reality of God's rule in the hearts and lives of individuals). Both interpretations carry significant theological weight, emphasizing that the Kingdom is not distant or purely future, but intimately present and accessible.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there!":** This opening clause directly addresses the Pharisees' expectation of a visibly observable and geographically locatable Kingdom. Jesus refutes the idea that the Kingdom's arrival will be heralded by specific, external signs or events that one can point to, like a physical landmark or a public declaration. It dismisses the notion of a Kingdom that can be found by looking around for external manifestations.
* **"for, behold,":** The conjunction "for" (Greek, _gár_) introduces the reason or explanation for the preceding statement. It signals a shift from what the Kingdom is *not* to what it *is*. The "behold" (Greek, _idoú_) serves to draw emphatic attention to the profound truth Jesus is about to reveal, contrasting sharply with the external search.
* **"the kingdom of God is within you.":** This is the pivotal declaration. The phrase "within you" (Greek, _entós hymōn_) is the subject of much discussion. It can mean "among you" (referring to Jesus' presence as the King in their midst, or the community of believers who embody the Kingdom) or "within your hearts" (referring to the spiritual reign of God in the lives of individuals). Both interpretations convey that the Kingdom is not a distant, future event, but a present, active reality that is intimately accessible, either personally experienced or corporately embodied. It signifies that God's rule is already at work, not requiring a grand, external announcement.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 17:21 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Contrast**, setting up a clear dichotomy between the external, observable, and geographically bound expectations of the Kingdom ("Lo here! or, lo there!") and its true, internal or immanent nature ("within you"). This contrast highlights the spiritual and relational essence of God's reign, challenging a purely materialistic or political worldview. There is also a subtle **Irony** present, as the Pharisees, who are looking for the Kingdom, are speaking directly to the King who embodies it, yet they fail to recognize its presence. Jesus' statement functions as a **Paradox**, as it asserts that the most anticipated and grandest of divine realities is not found in grand displays but in an intimate, perhaps even hidden, presence. Finally, the repeated use of "behold" (Greek, _idoú_) acts as a **Rhetorical Device**, drawing the listener's attention to the crucial shift in understanding and emphasizing the surprising truth Jesus reveals.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 17:21 is a cornerstone for understanding the inaugurated eschatology of the New Testament – the concept that the Kingdom of God has already broken into human history through Jesus Christ, even while its full consummation remains future. This verse asserts that God's sovereign rule is not merely a future hope but a present reality that is accessible and active. It shifts the focus from external signs and political manifestations to an internal transformation and the dynamic presence of God's authority. This understanding of the Kingdom being "within" or "among" us highlights God's desire for an intimate relationship with His people, where His will is done and His reign is recognized and submitted to in daily life. It emphasizes that the Kingdom is fundamentally spiritual, impacting individual hearts and the community of believers, rather than being confined to a physical territory or a specific historical event.

* [Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God Is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy")
* [Colossians 1:13](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13 - Delivered from Darkness into the Kingdom")
* [Luke 10:9](/luke/10-9 "Luke 10:9 - Heal the Sick and Say, 'The Kingdom of God Has Come Near'")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 17:21 profoundly challenges our human tendency to seek God's presence and work in grand, observable, or external ways. We often look for the "lo here!" or "lo there!" – in spectacular revivals, impressive church buildings, or political movements. Yet, Jesus reminds us that the Kingdom of God, His active reign and authority, is not found in such outward displays alone. It is a present reality that manifests in the quiet submission of a heart to God's will, in the transformation of character by the Holy Spirit, and in the community of believers living out God's values. This verse calls us to cultivate an inner spiritual life where God's rule is paramount, recognizing that true spiritual power and presence reside not in external show, but in the heart yielded to Christ and in the humble, loving fellowship of His followers. It encourages us to live out the Kingdom's values of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, making God's invisible reign visible through our transformed lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I tend to look for God's Kingdom in external signs or events, rather than in its internal and present reality?**
* **If the Kingdom of God is "within" or "among" us, how should this understanding shape my daily priorities and interactions?**
* **What does it mean practically for God's "kingdom" to be established in my own heart and life?**
* **How can our local church community better embody the "kingdom of God among us" in a way that is distinct from the world's systems?**

### FAQ

**Does "within you" mean inside individual believers, or among the people present?**

Answer: The Greek phrase "entós hymōn" (ἐντὸς ὑμῶν) can legitimately be translated as both "within you" (referring to the internal spiritual reality in individuals) and "among you" (referring to the presence of Jesus, the King, in their midst, or the community of believers). Given that Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees, who were generally hostile to Him, the "among you" interpretation (meaning the Kingdom was present because Jesus, its embodiment, was there) is highly plausible. However, the spiritual nature of the Kingdom, as described elsewhere (e.g., [Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God Is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy")), also strongly supports the "within you" interpretation, especially when applied to believers. Many scholars believe both truths are intended: the Kingdom was present in Jesus, and it is also established in the hearts of those who receive Him.

**Is the Kingdom of God a present reality or a future hope?**

Answer: The New Testament teaches an "already and not yet" understanding of the Kingdom of God. Luke 17:21 strongly emphasizes its *present* reality, asserting that God's reign is active and accessible now, not merely a distant future event. Jesus' miracles, teachings, and the very presence of the Holy Spirit are all manifestations of the Kingdom breaking into the present age. However, the Kingdom also has a *future* dimension, a full and glorious consummation that will occur when Christ returns to establish His visible, earthly reign ([Matthew 25:31-34](/matthew/25-31-34 "Matthew 25:31-34 - The Judgment of the Nations")). So, it is both a present spiritual reality to be lived out and a future hope to be anticipated.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 17:21 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Himself. He is not merely the herald of the Kingdom but its very embodiment. When Jesus declares, "the kingdom of God is within you" or "among you," He is subtly, yet profoundly, asserting His own divine authority and presence as the King. The Pharisees were looking for an external, observable sign of the Kingdom, but the King was standing right before them, inaugurating His reign not with political might but with spiritual power, healing, and teaching. Jesus' entire ministry, from His exorcisms demonstrating His power over evil ([Luke 11:20](/luke/11-20 "Luke 11:20 - Kingdom of God Has Come Upon You")) to His sacrificial death and resurrection, was the breaking in of God's sovereign rule. Through His atoning work, He made it possible for God's Kingdom to truly be "within" us, as He sends the Holy Spirit to indwell believers, making their hearts a realm where God reigns ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16-17 "John 14:16-17 - The Promise of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, the Kingdom is not found in a geographical location, but in a relationship with the King, Jesus Christ, who has conquered sin and death and established His eternal dominion ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from Darkness into the Kingdom of His Beloved Son")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 12:28

But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.

Romans 14:17

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

Mark 13:21

And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here [is] Christ; or, lo, [he is] there; believe [him] not:

Luke 10:9

And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.

Luke 10:11

Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.

Colossians 1:27

To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Matthew 24:23

Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here [is] Christ, or there; believe [it] not.