New Testament
Luke 17:22
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples about a future time when they will yearn to witness the days of the Son of Man, referring to His presence and the fulfillment of God's kingdom.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Then he said to his disciples, "The time is coming when you'll long to see even one of the days of the Son of Man, but you won't see it.
And he said unto the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples about a future time when they will yearn to witness the days of the Son of Man, referring to His presence and the fulfillment of God's kingdom. He indicates that there will be a longing for those days, but they will not be able to see them. This statement highlights the anticipation and hope that believers have for the return of Christ and the establishment of His reign. It also serves as a reminder that there will be times of waiting and longing in the Christian journey. The disciples, and by extension all believers, are encouraged to remain faithful and watchful, even when they cannot see the fulfillment of God's promises. This verse emphasizes the importance of faith and patience in the face of uncertainty, as well as the reality that not all desires will be fulfilled in the present moment. Explore related discipleship.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 17:22 to your life
This verse encourages us to remain faithful during times of waiting and uncertainty. We may long for God's presence and intervention in our lives, but we must trust in His timing. Cultivating patience and hope can strengthen our faith as we await His promises.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 17:22 mean about longing for the Son of Man?
In Luke 17:22, Jesus tells His disciples that there will come a time when they will deeply desire to witness His presence and the fulfillment of God's kingdom. This longing reflects the hope believers have for Christ's return and the establishment of His reign. It serves as a reminder that while we may yearn for God's intervention, there will be periods when we cannot see the fulfillment of His promises, encouraging us to remain faithful and patient.
How can I apply Luke 17:22 in my life?
Luke 17:22 teaches us to maintain faith during times of waiting and uncertainty. When we find ourselves longing for God's presence or answers to our prayers, this verse reminds us to trust in His timing. Practicing patience and cultivating hope can strengthen our faith, helping us to remain steadfast as we await the fulfillment of God's promises in our lives.
What is the significance of the 'days of the Son of Man'?
The 'days of the Son of Man' refers to the time of Jesus' ministry, His presence among His followers, and ultimately His return. In this context, it signifies a period of divine intervention and the establishment of God's kingdom. Jesus' statement highlights the anticipation and hope that believers have for these days, emphasizing the importance of remaining watchful and faithful even when those days seem distant.
Why won't the disciples see the days of the Son of Man?
Jesus indicates that there will be a longing for the days of the Son of Man, but the disciples will not see them, likely referring to the time after His ascension when they will miss His physical presence. This serves as a reminder that while believers may desire to experience God's promises in the present, there are times when they must wait in faith, trusting that God's plan will unfold in His perfect timing.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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