Luke 21:9

KJV

But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end [is] not by and by.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} when {G3752} ye shall hear {G191} of wars {G4171} and {G2532} commotions {G181}, be {G4422} not {G3361} terrified {G4422}: for {G1063} these things {G5023} must {G1163} first {G4412} come to pass {G1096}; but {G235} the end {G5056} is not {G3756} by and by {G2112}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And when you hear of wars and revolutions, don’t panic. For these things must happen first, but the end will not follow immediately.”

Berean Standard Bible

When you hear of wars and rebellions, do not be alarmed. These things must happen first, but the end is not imminent.”

American Standard Version

And when ye shall hear of wars and tumults, be not terrified: for these things must needs come to pass first; but the end is not immediately.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 21:9 is a pivotal verse within Jesus' Olivet Discourse, where He addresses His disciples' questions about the signs preceding the destruction of the temple and His second coming. Here, Jesus foretells a period of global unrest marked by "wars and commotions," instructing His followers not to be terrified by these events. He emphasizes that such occurrences are divinely necessary precursors ("must first come to pass") but clearly states they do not signify the immediate arrival of the ultimate "end," thereby establishing a timeline of unfolding prophecy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Luke 21:9 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 - Signs of the End"). This section immediately follows Jesus' pronouncement of the temple's complete destruction in [Luke 21:5-6](/luke/21-5-6 "Luke 21:5-6 - Prophecy of the Temple's Destruction"), which prompts the disciples' inquiry in [Luke 21:7](/luke/21-7 "Luke 21:7 - Disciples' Question about the End"). Prior to verse 9, Jesus warns against false messiahs and deception in [Luke 21:8](/luke/21-8 "Luke 21:8 - Warning Against Deception"). Verse 9 then introduces the first set of specific signs—wars and commotions—which are distinct from the final "end," setting the stage for further signs like famines, pestilences, and fearful sights ([Luke 21:10-11](/luke/21-10-11 "Luke 21:10-11 - Further Signs of the End")). The discourse continues to describe persecution, heavenly signs, and ultimately, the coming of the Son of Man.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jesus' words were spoken to Jewish disciples in Jerusalem, a city under Roman occupation. The temple, recently expanded by Herod the Great, was the epicenter of Jewish religious and national identity, making Jesus' prophecy of its destruction deeply unsettling. The Roman Empire, while generally maintaining peace (Pax Romana), was prone to internal power struggles, revolts in its provinces, and external conflicts, making "wars and commotions" a familiar concept. The disciples, steeped in Old Testament prophecy, would have understood "the end" (or "the consummation of the age") in terms of a climactic divine intervention, often associated with the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of God's kingdom. Their immediate concern was likely the timing of these events relative to their own lives and the anticipated messianic age.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel and biblical eschatology. It highlights **Divine Sovereignty** over history, as Jesus declares that these tumultuous events "must first come to pass," indicating they are part of God's predetermined plan, not random chaos. It also underscores the theme of **Watchfulness and Discernment**, urging believers to recognize the signs of the times without succumbing to panic. The command "be not terrified" introduces the crucial theme of **Peace and Trust in God** amidst global instability, a recurring motif in Jesus' teaching, exemplified by His promise of [peace that surpasses understanding](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Jesus' Gift of Peace"). Furthermore, the distinction between initial signs and the ultimate "end" emphasizes the **Gradual Unfolding of Prophecy**, countering any expectation of an immediate, abrupt culmination of history. This concept of a period of tribulation preceding the final return is foundational to the broader Olivet Discourse in [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse") and [Mark 13](/mark/13 "Mark 13 - Signs of the End").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **commotions (Greek, _akatastasía'_):** From G181, this term signifies 'instability,' 'disorder,' or 'tumult.' It goes beyond mere external warfare (pólemos) to encompass internal civil unrest, rebellions, revolutions, and general societal upheaval. It suggests a pervasive sense of disarray and lack of fixed order, highlighting a broader scope of global and internal instability that Jesus foresaw, affecting nations and communities from within.
* **be not terrified (Greek, _mḗ ptoéō'_):** Derived from G3361 (mḗ, a particle of qualified negation) and G4422 (ptoéō), this phrase is a strong imperative meaning 'do not be frightened,' 'do not be scared,' or 'do not be alarmed.' The verb _ptoéō_ implies a sudden, overwhelming fear that causes one to be startled or thrown into confusion. Jesus' command here is a direct pastoral instruction for His disciples to maintain composure and trust, rather than succumbing to panic in the face of alarming global events.
* **must (Greek, _deî'_):** From G1163, this impersonal verb signifies 'it is necessary' or 'it is binding.' It conveys a divine imperative or a moral and logical necessity. When Jesus says these things "must first come to pass," He is not merely predicting, but asserting that these events are part of God's predetermined, sovereign plan. They are not accidental or random occurrences, but essential components of the eschatological timeline, serving a specific purpose in the divine economy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions,"**: This opening clause, introduced by "But" (G1161 dé), signals a transition from the warning against deception to the first set of concrete signs. "Wars" (G4171 pólemos) refers to armed conflicts between nations or groups, while "commotions" (G181 akatastasía) broadens the scope to include internal societal instability, disorder, and rebellion. The phrase "when ye shall hear" implies that these events will be widely known and reported, impacting the consciousness of believers.
* **"be not terrified:"**: This is a direct, imperative command from Jesus. Despite the alarming nature of wars and commotions, His followers are explicitly instructed not to succumb to fear or panic (G4422 ptoéō). This instruction underscores the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, even when faced with overwhelming global unrest. It sets a posture of peace and confidence for believers.
* **"for these things must first come to pass;"**: This explanatory clause provides the reason for the command not to be terrified. The conjunction "for" (G1063 gár) introduces the divine necessity (G1163 deî) of these events. They are not random but are part of God's ordained plan, serving as necessary precursors (G4412 prōton) to the ultimate "end." The verb "come to pass" (G1096 gínomai) emphasizes their inevitable occurrence within history.
* **"but the end [is] not by and by."**: This final clause, introduced by the adversative "but" (G235 allá), clarifies the timeline. The "end" (G5056 télos), referring to the ultimate culmination of history and Christ's return, will not occur "by and by" (G2112 euthéōs), meaning 'immediately' or 'at once.' This indicates that while wars and commotions are signs, they are initial signs, signaling a period of time that will elapse before the final, ultimate conclusion.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 21:9 powerfully employs several literary devices. **Prophecy** is central, as Jesus foretells future global events with specific detail, validating His divine authority and knowledge. The phrase "be not terrified" functions as a direct **Imperative**, a command that calls for a specific response from the audience, highlighting the pastoral and practical nature of Jesus' teaching. There is a clear **Contrast** established between the alarming nature of the signs ("wars and commotions") and the prescribed response of the disciples ("be not terrified"). This contrast emphasizes the unique peace and perspective offered by faith. Furthermore, the verse uses **Foreshadowing**, indicating that these events are not the final "end" but rather preliminary indicators, setting the stage for greater events to unfold in the eschatological drama. The use of "must" (G1163 deî) also hints at **Divine Necessity**, underscoring that these events are part of a predetermined, sovereign plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 21:9 is foundational for understanding the biblical perspective on eschatology and the Christian response to world events. It teaches that God is sovereign over history, orchestrating even chaotic events to fulfill His purposes. The "wars and commotions" are not random but are divinely necessary signs that precede the ultimate "end." This understanding should cultivate a deep trust in God's control, rather than fear, in the hearts of believers. It also clarifies that the "end" is not an immediate, sudden event following the first signs, but rather the culmination of a process, requiring patience and endurance from those who await Christ's return. This perspective encourages a balanced approach: awareness of prophetic signs without alarmism, and steadfast faith in the midst of global turmoil.

* [Matthew 24:6](/matthew/24-6 "Matthew 24:6 - Parallel Account of Wars and Rumors")
* [Mark 13:7](/mark/13-7 "Mark 13:7 - Parallel Account of Wars and Troubles")
* [2 Thessalonians 2:3](/2_thessalonians/2-3 "2 Thessalonians 2:3 - The Apostasy Before the Day of the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In an age characterized by constant news cycles and pervasive global instability, Luke 21:9 serves as a timeless anchor for believers. The presence of wars, civil unrest, and societal commotions can easily incite fear, anxiety, and despair. However, Jesus' direct command, "be not terrified," calls us to a radically different posture. It's a call to remember God's sovereignty, to trust that He is working His purposes even through what appears to be chaos. This verse encourages us to cultivate an inner peace rooted in our understanding that these events, though difficult, are part of a larger divine narrative leading to Christ's ultimate triumph. Instead of succumbing to panic, we are to be discerning, recognizing the signs of the times, yet remaining steadfast in our faith and committed to our mission. Our hope is not in the absence of trouble, but in the presence and ultimate return of our Lord. This prophetic insight should motivate us to live with urgency, sharing the Gospel and demonstrating God's love, knowing that our redemption draws nearer with each passing sign, as Jesus later encourages in [Luke 21:28](/luke/21-28 "Luke 21:28 - Look Up for Your Redemption").

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' command "be not terrified" challenge my natural reactions to global crises and instability?**
* **In what ways can understanding the "divine necessity" of these events deepen my trust in God's sovereign plan?**
* **How does the distinction between initial signs and the ultimate "end" shape my expectations and patience regarding Christ's return?**

### FAQ
**Does "wars and commotions" refer only to events in the distant future, or does it apply to all ages?**

Answer: While Jesus' Olivet Discourse has an ultimate eschatological fulfillment, the signs He describes, including "wars and commotions," have a recurring nature throughout history. The destruction of the Jerusalem temple in AD 70 was a significant fulfillment of some aspects of this prophecy, but the continuous presence of wars and societal unrest across centuries suggests that these are ongoing signs that intensify as the "end" draws nearer. Jesus indicates that these are initial, recurring indicators, not the final, singular event. Therefore, believers in every generation have heard of and experienced "wars and commotions," serving as a constant reminder that the world is groaning and that the ultimate redemption is yet to come.

**What does "the end is not by and by" mean in modern English?**

Answer: The King James Version phrase "by and by" means "immediately" or "at once" in older English. So, "the end is not by and by" means "the end is not immediately" or "the end will not happen at once." Jesus is clarifying that the occurrence of wars and commotions, while significant signs, do not signal His instant return or the immediate culmination of all things. There will be a period of time, and other events, that must unfold before the ultimate "end" arrives. This helps to prevent alarmism and encourages patience among believers.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 21:9, while detailing signs of the end times, ultimately points to Christ as the central figure of history and the ultimate fulfillment of all prophecy. The "wars and commotions" that "must first come to pass" are not random acts of chaos but are part of a divinely ordained process leading to the establishment of Christ's eternal kingdom. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, commands His followers not to be terrified, because He has already overcome the world ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")). His peace, not the world's fleeting tranquility, is the true anchor in times of distress ([John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Jesus' Gift of Peace")). The "end" that is "not by and by" is not merely a chronological marker, but the glorious return of Christ Himself, when He will judge the living and the dead and usher in the new heavens and new earth ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - New Heavens and New Earth")). Thus, these unsettling signs serve to heighten our longing for the King, whose coming will bring an end to all wars and commotions, establishing a reign of perfect justice and peace ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace")). The very necessity of these events underscores God's unwavering plan, culminating in the full revelation of His Son, Jesus Christ, as the Lord of all creation.

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

Luke 21:28

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

Matthew 24:6

And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all [these things] must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

Matthew 24:8

All these [are] the beginning of sorrows.

Mark 13:7

And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for [such things] must needs be; but the end [shall] not [be] yet.

Mark 13:8

For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these [are] the beginnings of sorrows.

Isaiah 51:12

I, [even] I, [am] he that comforteth you: who [art] thou, that thou shouldest be afraid of a man [that] shall die, and of the son of man [which] shall be made [as] grass;

Isaiah 51:13

And forgettest the LORD thy maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth; and hast feared continually every day because of the fury of the oppressor, as if he were ready to destroy? and where [is] the fury of the oppressor?