Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes.
{G2532} Neither {G3361} let him which is in {G1722} the field {G68} return {G1994} back {G3694} to take {G142} his {G846} clothes {G2440}.
if someone is in the field, he must not turn back to get his coat.
And let no one in the field return for his cloak.
and let him that is in the field not return back to take his cloak.
No cross-references found for this verse.
Context of Matthew 24:18
Matthew 24:18 is a powerful and urgent warning delivered by Jesus Christ as part of His prophetic discourse, commonly known as the Olivet Discourse. Spoken on the Mount of Olives, this passage addresses two primary but interconnected events: the impending destruction of Jerusalem and its temple in A.D. 70, and the broader signs leading to the end of the age and Christ's second coming. This specific verse emphasizes the extreme immediacy required during a time of unparalleled tribulation. It follows Jesus' instruction for those in Judea to flee to the mountains without delay, underscoring that any hesitation, even for basic necessities, would be perilous.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The KJV phrase "return back" translates the Greek anastrepsatō opisō (ἀναστρέψατω ὀπίσω), which literally means "let him turn back" or "let him go back." This powerfully conveys a strong prohibition against any backward movement or delay. The instruction to not "take his clothes" (τὰ ἱμάτια αὐτοῦ - ta himatia autou) refers to outer garments, which in that culture could be valuable and essential for warmth or even used as collateral for loans. Yet, Jesus declares them insignificant in the face of imminent danger. The urgency is absolute; there is no leisure for retrieving even basic necessities.
Practical Application
While the immediate context of Matthew 24:18 pointed to specific historical events, its principles hold profound spiritual applications for believers today: