And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
And {G1161} when these things {G5130} begin {G756} to come to pass {G1096}, then look up {G352}, and {G2532} lift up {G1869} your {G5216} heads {G2776}; for {G1360} your {G5216} redemption {G629} draweth nigh {G1448}.
When these things start to happen, stand up and hold your heads high; because you are about to be liberated!”
When these things begin to happen, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
But when these things begin to come to pass, look up, and lift up your heads; because your redemption draweth nigh.
-
Romans 8:23
And not only [they], but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, [to wit], the redemption of our body. -
Isaiah 60:1
¶ Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. -
Isaiah 60:2
For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. -
Ephesians 4:30
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. -
Romans 8:19
For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. -
Isaiah 12:1
¶ And in that day thou shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me. -
Isaiah 12:3
Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.
Context
Luke 21:28 is part of Jesus' extensive discourse on the end times, often referred to as the Olivet Discourse, delivered on the Mount of Olives. In this chapter, Jesus prophecies the destruction of the Jerusalem temple, followed by signs of global turmoil, including wars, famines, pestilences, and persecutions against His followers. Leading up to this verse, Jesus describes cosmic disturbances and great distress among nations, causing people to faint from fear and apprehension (Luke 21:25-26). Amidst these terrifying predictions, verse 28 offers a stark contrast and a profound message of hope specifically for believers.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The KJV phrase "look up, and lift up your heads" translates two Greek verbs: anakypsate and eparate tas kephalas hymōn. Anakypsate means "to lift oneself up, to stand erect," suggesting a change from a bowed or defeated posture to one of boldness and confidence. Eparate tas kephalas hymōn literally means "raise your heads." Combined, these phrases convey an active, expectant posture, contrasting sharply with the fear and faintness of heart described for unbelievers in Luke 21:26. It is a call to courageously anticipate the glorious future.
The word "redemption" is from the Greek apolytrōsis, which signifies deliverance secured by the payment of a ransom. It speaks of a liberation from bondage or captivity. In this context, it refers to the final, complete liberation of believers from the curse of sin, the power of death, and all earthly suffering, culminating in their glorification and full entrance into God's eternal kingdom. This is the ultimate hope for those who have put their faith in Jesus, as also referenced in Romans 8:23.
Practical Application
Luke 21:28 provides a profound message of hope and encouragement for believers in every generation, especially when facing global instability or personal trials. It reminds us: