Luke 21:31

So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.

So {G3779} likewise {G2532} ye {G5210}, when {G3752} ye see {G1492} these things {G5023} come to pass {G1096}, know ye {G1097} that {G3754} the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316} is {G2076} nigh at hand {G1451}.

In the same way, when you see these things taking place, you are to know that the Kingdom of God is near!

So also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near.

Even so ye also, when ye see these things coming to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh.

Commentary

Luke 21:31 KJV is a pivotal verse within Jesus' Olivet Discourse, offering a clear interpretive key to the preceding prophetic signs.

Context

This verse concludes a section where Jesus describes various signs that will precede His glorious return and the establishment of God's eternal reign. These signs include the destruction of the Temple (Luke 21:6), wars and commotions, famines, pestilences, fearful sights, and great signs from heaven (Luke 21:10-11). He also speaks of persecution against believers and cosmic disturbances like the sun being darkened and the powers of heaven being shaken (Luke 21:25-26). Following the parable of the fig tree in Luke 21:29-30, which illustrates how nature signals the change of seasons, Jesus applies this natural principle to prophetic events.

Key Themes

  • Prophetic Interpretation: Jesus provides a direct instruction to His disciples: when these signs occur, they are not random events but indicators of a significant divine timeline.
  • The Kingdom of God: The central message is the imminent arrival of the Kingdom of God. This refers not just to a spiritual reality but to the full, tangible reign of God, culminating in Christ's second coming and the new heavens and new earth (Revelation 21:1).
  • Watchfulness and Discernment: Believers are called to be vigilant and discerning, recognizing the spiritual significance of world events rather than being overwhelmed by fear (Luke 21:34-36).

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "nigh at hand" translates the Greek engys (ἐγγύς), meaning "near," "close," or "at hand." It conveys a sense of immediacy and proximity, emphasizing that these signs are direct harbingers of the Kingdom's full manifestation. It's not about setting dates but recognizing the signs that indicate God's redemptive plan is progressing towards its climax.

Practical Application

For believers today, Luke 21:31 serves as both a warning and an encouragement. It calls for:

  • Hope Amidst Chaos: In a world filled with turmoil, these prophecies remind us that God is sovereign and in control, bringing His purposes to fruition. The signs are not a cause for despair but a signal of the coming King.
  • Urgency and Readiness: Knowing that the Kingdom is near should motivate us to live lives of holiness, share the Gospel, and be found faithful when Christ returns (Matthew 24:44).
  • Discernment: We are to observe world events through a biblical lens, understanding that they align with prophetic scripture and affirm the truth of God's Word.

This verse assures us that the signs of the times ultimately point to the glorious future of God's complete and eternal reign.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • James 5:9

    Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.

  • Hebrews 10:37

    For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

  • 1 Peter 4:7

    ΒΆ But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

  • Luke 12:51

    Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:

  • Luke 12:57

    Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?

  • Matthew 3:2

    And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

  • Matthew 16:1

    ΒΆ The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven.
← Back