Luke 21:13

KJV

And it shall turn to you for a testimony.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} it shall turn {G576} to you {G5213} for {G1519} a testimony {G3142}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but it will prove an opportunity for you to bear witness.

Berean Standard Bible

This will be your opportunity to serve as witnesses.

American Standard Version

It shall turn out unto you for a testimony.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 21:13, part of Jesus' Olivet Discourse, delivers a profound reinterpretation of suffering for His disciples. In the midst of prophesied intense persecution, arrests, and trials, Jesus declares that these very adversities will "turn to you for a testimony." This statement transforms potential despair into a divine opportunity, revealing that God sovereignly uses the opposition faced by believers to advance His kingdom and provide a powerful platform for proclaiming the Gospel, even before kings and rulers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Jesus’ eschatological discourse, often referred to as the Olivet Discourse, recorded in [Luke 21](/luke/21 "Luke 21 - The Olivet Discourse"). Immediately preceding [Luke 21:13](/luke/21-13 "Luke 21:13 - Persecution as Testimony"), Jesus warns His disciples about the severe persecutions they will face before the end times. [Luke 21:12](/luke/21-12 "Luke 21:12 - Prophecy of Persecution") explicitly states, "But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake." It is precisely into this grim prophecy of arrest, imprisonment, and trials that Jesus interjects the seemingly paradoxical promise of verse 13. The "And" (G1161, *dé*) at the beginning of the verse links it directly to the preceding warnings, indicating a consequence or a specific outcome of the predicted suffering. Jesus is not just predicting suffering, but assigning a divine purpose to it, making it clear that these trials are not random but part of God's sovereign plan to advance His kingdom. This verse functions as a crucial interpretive lens for understanding Christian suffering, shifting the focus from mere endurance to purposeful witness.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical and cultural backdrop for Jesus' words includes the socio-political realities of first-century Judea under Roman occupation, alongside the established Jewish religious structures. Synagogues served as local community centers, often with judicial functions, where early Christians could be tried or excommunicated. Prisons were common holding places, and being "brought before kings and rulers" implies appearances before Roman governors (like Pilate or Felix) or client kings (like Herod Agrippa). For early Christians, this meant facing accusations of sedition, atheism (for not worshipping Roman gods), or simply being a disruptive new sect. The Roman legal system, while structured, could be brutal, and trials often lacked due process, especially for those deemed politically or religiously inconvenient. Furthermore, Jewish authorities, particularly the Sanhedrin, held significant power in religious matters and could initiate persecution against those they considered heretical. Jesus' prophecy thus speaks to a very real and immediate threat for His followers, who would soon experience these very forms of opposition, as documented extensively in the Book of Acts.
* **Key Themes:** [Luke 21:13](/luke/21-13 "Luke 21:13 - Persecution as Testimony") contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within Luke's Gospel and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it highlights **Persecution as Opportunity**, transforming what appears to be a setback into a strategic platform for witnessing. The very act of being brought before authorities, which seems to be a disadvantage, becomes an unparalleled chance to proclaim the Gospel to those in power who might otherwise never hear it. This aligns with the theme of the Gospel's unstoppable advance, even in the face of opposition, as seen throughout the Book of Acts. Secondly, the verse underscores **Divine Purpose in Adversity**. It reveals God's ability to redeem and repurpose human suffering, demonstrating that what the world intends for harm, God intends for good and for the spread of His truth. This echoes the profound truth expressed by Joseph in [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Genesis 50:20 - Joseph's Words to His Brothers") where he tells his brothers, "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive." Lastly, the verse emphasizes **Witnessing for Christ**. The core message is that believers' endurance through trials serves as a powerful testament to their faith and to the truth of Christ. Their steadfastness, even unto death, speaks volumes, becoming a living, breathing declaration of the power of the resurrected Lord.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **turn (Greek, _apobaínō'_):** From G576, meaning literally "to disembark" or figuratively "to eventuate, become, go out." In this context, it signifies that the persecutions and trials, far from being mere obstacles or ends in themselves, will result in, or eventuate into, something purposeful. It denotes a turning point or an outcome, indicating that God actively works in and through these difficult circumstances to bring about a specific, intended result. The suffering is not random but has a divinely ordained conclusion.
* **for (Greek, _eis'_):** From G1519, a primary preposition indicating "to or into," often signifying purpose, result, or direction. Here, "for a testimony" clearly indicates the *purpose* or *result* of the trials. The persecutions are not just something to be endured; they are designed by God to lead to a specific outcome: the giving of a testimony. This preposition highlights the teleological nature of Christian suffering – it serves a divine end.
* **testimony (Greek, _martýrion'_):** From G3142, meaning "something evidential, evidence given, witness." This is a crucial term, closely related to *martys* (witness) from which we derive the English word "martyr." It signifies a declaration of truth, often based on personal experience or observation, that serves as proof or evidence. In this context, the suffering itself, the steadfastness of the persecuted, and the words they speak under duress become a powerful, undeniable declaration of the truth of Christ and the reality of their faith. It is not merely a verbal witness, but a witness demonstrated through life and death.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it shall turn to you":** This initial clause, connected by "And" (G1161, *dé*) to the preceding warnings of persecution, establishes a direct consequence. The trials and sufferings previously described (arrests, imprisonment, appearances before authorities) are not presented as purely negative events. Instead, they are depicted as having a specific, divinely orchestrated outcome *for* the disciples. The verb "turn" (G576, *apobaínō*) implies a transformation or a purposeful result, indicating that God will use these adverse circumstances to bring about something beneficial and meaningful for His followers. It's a promise that their suffering will not be in vain but will serve a higher purpose.
* **"for a testimony":** This phrase, introduced by the preposition "for" (G1519, *eis*) indicating purpose, reveals the ultimate goal of the disciples' trials. Their endurance through persecution, their steadfastness in the face of opposition, and the words they speak when brought before rulers will serve as a powerful "testimony" (G3142, *martýrion*). This testimony is not just *about* them, but *through* them, it is a witness to the truth of Christ and the power of God's kingdom. It is a declaration, often made under duress, that validates their faith and proclaims the Gospel to those in authority, effectively turning a moment of vulnerability into an opportunity for divine proclamation.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 21:13 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Paradox**, as Jesus declares that the very act of persecution, typically seen as a negative and debilitating experience, will paradoxically "turn" into an opportunity for "testimony." This unexpected reversal of fortune highlights God's ability to redeem and repurpose human suffering for His divine ends. Closely related is **Irony**, where the persecutors, intending to silence or destroy the disciples, unwittingly provide them with the greatest platform to proclaim the Gospel. The courtroom, meant for condemnation, becomes a stage for witness. Furthermore, the phrase "for a testimony" functions as a **Purpose Clause**, explicitly stating the divine intention behind the predicted suffering. It is not random or meaningless; it has a clear, God-ordained purpose. Finally, there is an element of **Metonymy** in "testimony" itself, as the word stands not just for a verbal declaration, but for the entire experience of enduring persecution for Christ's sake, where the very life and suffering of the believer become the powerful witness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 21:13 offers a profound theological insight into the nature of Christian suffering and God's sovereignty. It asserts that adversity, particularly persecution for the sake of Christ, is not an arbitrary misfortune but a divinely appointed means for advancing the Gospel. This perspective elevates suffering from a mere trial to an active component of God's redemptive plan, transforming the persecuted into powerful witnesses. It underscores the theme that God is able to use even the most challenging circumstances to bring about His purposes, demonstrating His power and faithfulness through the steadfastness of His people. The witness given in such circumstances is especially potent because it is authenticated by personal sacrifice and unwavering conviction, speaking volumes to a watching world and to those in authority.

* [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Great Commission to Witness")
* [Philippians 1:12-14](/philippians/1-12-14 "Philippians 1:12-14 - Paul's Imprisonment for the Gospel")
* [Matthew 10:18](/matthew/10-18 "Matthew 10:18 - Testifying Before Rulers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For believers today, Luke 21:13 provides immense encouragement and a vital shift in perspective regarding life's difficulties. While many may not face the severe physical persecution described by Jesus, every Christian will encounter challenges, opposition, or opportunities to stand for their faith in various contexts—whether in the workplace, among friends, or in cultural debates. This verse teaches us to view these difficulties not as mere obstacles or unfortunate events, but as divinely appointed moments to glorify God and share His truth. Our response to adversity—our patience, joy, integrity, and unwavering faith in Christ—can be the most compelling testimony to a watching world, demonstrating the reality and transformative power of Christ within us. It reminds us that God can use every circumstance, even the most painful or seemingly disadvantageous, for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom, calling us to a posture of faithful endurance and courageous witness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does viewing personal trials as opportunities for "testimony" change your perspective on suffering?**
* **In what ways might your current challenges or opposition be used by God as a platform for witness?**
* **What specific aspects of your faith or character might be most powerfully demonstrated through your response to adversity?**

### FAQ

**What kind of "testimony" is meant in Luke 21:13?**

Answer: The "testimony" (Greek: *martýrion*) in [Luke 21:13](/luke/21-13 "Luke 21:13 - Persecution as Testimony") refers to a declaration of truth, evidence, or witness. It encompasses both verbal proclamation and the powerful, non-verbal witness of one's life and steadfastness under duress. When believers are brought before authorities for Christ's sake, their very presence, their calm demeanor, their unwavering faith, and any words they speak in defense of the Gospel serve as a compelling witness to the truth of Christ and the reality of His kingdom. This testimony is given not only *by* them but also *through* them, often against the will of their persecutors, who unwittingly provide the platform for the Gospel's proclamation. It is a powerful demonstration that the power of God is greater than any human opposition.

**Does this verse imply that God *wants* us to suffer?**

Answer: [Luke 21:13](/luke/21-13 "Luke 21:13 - Persecution as Testimony") does not suggest that God *desires* suffering for its own sake, but rather that He *permits* it and, more importantly, *redeems* it for His divine purposes. Jesus is not commanding suffering, but prophesying its inevitability for His followers in a hostile world. The key insight is that God is sovereign over all circumstances, including adversity, and He can transform what is intended for harm into an opportunity for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom. Just as [Joseph told his brothers in Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Genesis 50:20 - Joseph's Words to His Brothers"), "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good." The focus is on God's redemptive power and purpose *in* suffering, not on suffering as an end in itself.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 21:13 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ Himself. Jesus, the quintessential witness (*martys*), perfectly embodied this principle, as His own suffering, trial, and crucifixion became the supreme "testimony" to God's love and redemptive plan. When He stood before Pilate, His silence and His words were a powerful witness, even as He was condemned (cf. [John 18:37](/john/18-37 "John 18:37 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World")). His death on the cross, the ultimate act of suffering, was not a defeat but the triumphant testimony to God's victory over sin and death, culminating in His resurrection. The author of Hebrews reminds us to look to [Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith"). Believers, therefore, are called to participate in this Christ-centered pattern of witness. Our suffering for His name is not merely imitation, but a continuation of His own testimony in the world. As the Apostle Paul understood, his imprisonment served to further the gospel (cf. [Philippians 1:12-14](/philippians/1-12-14 "Philippians 1:12-14 - Paul's Imprisonment for the Gospel")), making his chains a powerful witness to the palace guard. Ultimately, the "testimony" of believers in the face of persecution points back to the Lamb of God, who by His blood and the word of *their* testimony, overcame the accuser (cf. [Revelation 12:11](/revelation/12-11 "Revelation 12:11 - Overcoming by the Blood of the Lamb and the Word of Their Testimony")), thus fulfilling Jesus' promise that their trials would indeed turn to a powerful, Christ-exalting testimony.

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

Philippians 1:12

¶ But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things [which happened] unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;

Philippians 1:28

And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.

2 Thessalonians 1:5

¶ [Which is] a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:

1 Thessalonians 3:3

That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.

1 Thessalonians 3:4

For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.