Luke 21:28

KJV

And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

When these things start to happen, stand up and hold your heads high; because you are about to be liberated!”

Berean Standard Bible

When these things begin to happen, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

American Standard Version

But when these things begin to come to pass, look up, and lift up your heads; because your redemption draweth nigh.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 21:28, part of Jesus' Olivet Discourse, offers a profound message of hope and assurance to believers amidst the terrifying signs of the end times. While the world is consumed by fear and distress as cataclysmic events unfold, Jesus instructs His followers to adopt a posture of confident anticipation, for these very signs indicate the imminent culmination of God's redemptive plan and the glorious return of Christ. This verse transforms what might be seen as portents of doom into harbingers of ultimate liberation for the faithful.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Luke 21:28 is situated within Jesus' extensive eschatological discourse, often paralleled in [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse") and [Mark 13](/mark/13 "Mark 13 - The Little Apocalypse"). This discourse begins with Jesus prophesying the [destruction of the Jerusalem temple](/luke/21-6 "Luke 21:6 - Prophecy of the Temple's Destruction") (Luke 21:5-7), a monumental event for His Jewish audience. He then describes a series of escalating signs: initial tribulations like [wars, famines, and pestilences](/luke/21-10-11 "Luke 21:10-11 - Signs of the End"), followed by intense persecution of His disciples (Luke 21:12-19). The narrative then shifts to the "times of the Gentiles" (Luke 21:20-24), culminating in dramatic cosmic disturbances—signs in the sun, moon, and stars, and roaring of the sea—which cause [nations to be in anguish and men's hearts to fail them for fear](/luke/21-25-26 "Luke 21:25-26 - Cosmic Signs and Human Fear"). Immediately preceding verse 28, Jesus speaks of the [Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory](/luke/21-27 "Luke 21:27 - The Coming of the Son of Man"), setting the stage for the believer's contrasting response to these events.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jesus delivers this discourse on the Mount of Olives, overlooking Jerusalem and its magnificent temple, a site laden with prophetic significance. The disciples' initial question about the temple's destruction and the "end of these things" (Luke 21:7) reflects a common Jewish expectation of an apocalyptic age that would precede the Messiah's kingdom. While the immediate audience would have understood the temple's destruction as a cataclysmic event (which occurred in A.D. 70), Jesus' prophecy extends far beyond this, encompassing the broader signs of the end of the age and His Second Coming. The cultural backdrop includes the Roman occupation, which often fueled messianic expectations and apocalyptic fervor, though Jesus' message reorients these expectations towards a spiritual and cosmic redemption, not merely political liberation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Luke's Gospel and biblical eschatology. It underscores the theme of **Hope Amidst Tribulation**, contrasting the world's despair with the believer's confident anticipation of Christ's return. The command to "look up, and lift up your heads" is a call to maintain a posture of joyful expectation, even when surrounded by global turmoil and distress, as described in [Luke 21:25-26](/luke/21-25-26 "Luke 21:25-26 - Cosmic Signs and Human Fear"). It highlights the **Certainty of Redemption**, assuring believers that the unfolding of these difficult events is not random chaos but a divinely orchestrated process leading to their ultimate liberation from sin, death, and suffering. This redemption is the full and final salvation that culminates in glorification. Furthermore, the verse points to the **Imminence of Christ's Return**, presenting the signs of the end times not as mere harbingers of destruction but as clear indicators that the King is about to return to establish His eternal kingdom and gather His own, a concept further elaborated in the [parable of the fig tree](/luke/21-29-33 "Luke 21:29-33 - The Parable of the Fig Tree") immediately following this passage.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **begin (Greek, _árchomai'_):** From G756, meaning "to commence (in order of time)." This word emphasizes the initiation of the prophetic events. It suggests that once these "things" (the signs Jesus described) start to occur, they are not isolated incidents but the beginning of a larger, unfolding sequence that signals the approach of the end. It denotes a definite starting point for the eschatological timeline.
* **look up (Greek, _anakýptō'_):** From G352, meaning "to unbend, i.e. rise; figuratively, be elated." This is a powerful imperative, urging a change in posture from one of dejection, fear, or bowing down (as in despair) to one of standing erect, looking upward with boldness and confidence. It signifies a spiritual and emotional uplift, a posture of hope and expectation rather than dread.
* **redemption (Greek, _apolýtrōsis'_):** From G629, meaning "(the act) ransom in full, i.e. (figuratively) riddance, or (specially) Christian salvation; deliverance." This term is crucial, denoting a liberation secured by the payment of a price. In this context, it refers to the ultimate, complete deliverance of believers from the bondage of sin, death, and the present evil age, culminating in their glorification and full entrance into God's eternal kingdom. It is the final, glorious aspect of salvation.
* **draweth nigh (Greek, _engízō'_):** From G1448, meaning "to make near, i.e. (reflexively) approach." This verb conveys a sense of imminence and proximity. The redemption is not a distant, abstract concept but something actively approaching, becoming nearer with each unfolding prophetic sign. It underscores the urgency and certainty of the promised deliverance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when these things begin to come to pass":** This initial clause sets the condition for the divine command that follows. "These things" refers directly to the preceding descriptions of global distress, cosmic disturbances, and the coming of the Son of Man (Luke 21:25-27). The phrase "begin to come to pass" (Greek: _ginomai_) emphasizes that the onset of these signs is the trigger for the believer's specific response, indicating that the prophetic timeline has been initiated and is actively unfolding.
* **"then look up, and lift up your heads":** This is a twofold imperative directed specifically at believers, contrasting sharply with the fear and fainting of the unbelieving world (Luke 21:26). "Look up" (_anakýptō_) implies straightening from a bowed or fearful posture, while "lift up your heads" (_epaírō tas kephalas_) signifies a posture of confidence, boldness, and exultation. Instead of succumbing to despair, believers are called to stand tall, with eyes fixed on the heavens, anticipating the Lord's return with joy and courage.
* **"for your redemption draweth nigh":** This final clause provides the profound reason and motivation for the commanded posture of hope. The conjunction "for" (_dióti_) introduces the theological basis. The "redemption" (_apolýtrōsis_) refers to the complete and final liberation of God's people from all the effects of sin and death, culminating in their glorification at Christ's return. The phrase "draweth nigh" (_engízō_) emphasizes the proximity and certainty of this ultimate deliverance, transforming the terrifying signs of the end into welcome harbingers of salvation for the faithful.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 21:28 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its urgent and hopeful message. The most prominent is the **Imperative Mood**, seen in "look up, and lift up your heads," which functions as a direct command from Jesus, demanding an active and intentional response from His followers. This command creates a strong **Contrast** with the preceding description of the world's terror and despair (Luke 21:26), highlighting the distinct experience and perspective of the believer. The act of "looking up" and "lifting heads" serves as **Symbolism**, representing not merely a physical action but a spiritual posture of hope, confidence, and anticipation in the face of overwhelming global distress. It symbolizes a shift from earthly focus and fear to heavenly expectation. The entire verse is steeped in **Eschatological Language**, using terms like "these things" (referring to end-time signs) and "redemption draweth nigh" to frame the discourse within the context of final events and the culmination of God's plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 21:28 stands as a beacon of hope, deeply rooted in the broader biblical narrative of God's faithfulness and ultimate triumph. The "redemption" spoken of here is the final, glorious consummation of the salvation initiated by Christ's first coming. It is the complete deliverance from the presence and power of sin, death, and all suffering, culminating in the glorification of believers and their full inheritance in God's eternal kingdom. This verse asserts that the very signs that bring terror to the world are, for the redeemed, indicators of their approaching liberation. It underscores the sovereignty of God over history, demonstrating that even in chaos, His divine plan is unfolding precisely as prophesied, leading to the ultimate vindication of His people and the establishment of His righteous rule. This eschatological hope is not passive but calls for an active, expectant posture, transforming fear into joyful anticipation.

* [Romans 8:23](/romans/8-23 "Romans 8:23 - The Groaning for Redemption")
* [1 Thessalonians 4:16-17](/1_thessalonians/4-16-17 "1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 - The Lord's Return and Resurrection")
* [Titus 2:13](/titus/2-13 "Titus 2:13 - The Blessed Hope")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 21:28 provides an enduring and vital message for believers across all generations, particularly in times of global uncertainty, societal upheaval, or personal tribulation. It challenges us to reorient our perspective from earthly anxieties to heavenly hope. Instead of being consumed by fear or despair when we witness the signs of a fallen world, we are called to actively "look up" and "lift up our heads," adopting a posture of confident anticipation. This means cultivating an eternal mindset, understanding that present sufferings are temporary and that our ultimate and complete liberation is drawing near. This hope should not lead to passivity but to a renewed sense of purpose: to live holy lives, to persevere in faith, and to share the good news of Christ's saving work with a world desperately in need of true redemption. Our expectation of Christ's return should fuel our evangelism, reminding us that there is a pressing need for others to find the hope that allows them to also "look up" amidst the chaos.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "things" in the world today cause you to feel anxious or fearful, and how does the command to "look up" challenge that response?**
* **How does understanding that "your redemption draweth nigh" change your perspective on current suffering or global events?**
* **In what practical ways can you "lift up your head" and live with greater confidence and hope in your daily life?**
* **How does the expectation of Christ's return motivate your spiritual disciplines, your service, and your witness to others?**

### FAQ
**What are "these things" that begin to come to pass?**

Answer: "These things" refer to the series of prophetic events Jesus describes earlier in [Luke 21](/luke/21 "Luke 21 - The Olivet Discourse"), particularly the cosmic disturbances and global distress mentioned in [Luke 21:25-26](/luke/21-25-26 "Luke 21:25-26 - Cosmic Signs and Human Fear"). These include signs in the sun, moon, and stars, the roaring of the sea and waves, and the anguish of nations. They are the escalating signs that precede the glorious return of the Son of Man.

**What does "your redemption draweth nigh" mean for believers?**

Answer: For believers, "your redemption draweth nigh" signifies the approaching culmination of God's plan of salvation. It refers to the final, complete liberation from the presence and power of sin, death, and all earthly suffering. This is the ultimate glorification of the believer, when they will receive their resurrected bodies and fully enter into God's eternal kingdom, in the presence of Christ. It is the blessed hope that the trials of this present age are temporary and that ultimate deliverance is at hand.

**How does this verse apply to Christians living today, thousands of years after Jesus spoke it?**

Answer: Luke 21:28 remains profoundly relevant for Christians today. It teaches us how to respond to the signs of a fallen world—whether global crises, natural disasters, or societal unrest. Instead of succumbing to fear or despair, believers are called to maintain a posture of hope and confident expectation, knowing that these very signs indicate the progressive unfolding of God's sovereign plan and the approaching return of Jesus Christ. It reminds us that our ultimate hope is not in earthly solutions but in the divine redemption that Christ will bring at His Second Coming.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 21:28 finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the very "Son of Man" whose glorious return is heralded by these terrifying signs (Luke 21:27). The "redemption" that "draweth nigh" is not an abstract concept but a salvation secured *by* Christ and completed *in* Christ. His first coming, His sacrificial death on the cross, and His resurrection provided the ransom for our sin, initiating our redemption (as seen in [Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through His Blood")). However, the full, final, and complete "redemption" spoken of in Luke 21:28 refers to the consummation of that salvation—the liberation of our bodies and the full establishment of God's kingdom at Christ's Second Coming. Therefore, when believers "look up, and lift up their heads," they are not merely looking to a future event, but to the returning King, Jesus Christ, who is the author and finisher of their faith, the one who will bring their salvation to its glorious completion (as affirmed in [Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking Unto Jesus")). He is the blessed hope for whom we eagerly wait (Titus 2:13), the one who transforms the signs of the end from portents of doom into harbingers of eternal joy for His redeemed.

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

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.