New Testament
Luke 17:31
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On that day, if you're on the rooftop, don't go back inside to grab your belongings. If you're out in the field, don't turn back for anything.
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In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back.
What Luke 17:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the urgency of being prepared for the coming of the Kingdom of God. He uses the imagery of people on rooftops and in fields to illustrate that when the time comes, there will be no opportunity to gather possessions or make last-minute preparations. The message is clear: when the call comes, one must prioritize spiritual readiness over material concerns. This reflects the idea that the Kingdom of God requires immediate action and commitment, urging believers to focus on their relationship with God rather than being distracted by earthly possessions. The verse serves as a reminder that the things of this world are temporary, and when the time comes for divine judgment or the return of Christ, the focus should be on faith and readiness, not on material belongings.
How to apply Luke 17:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate our priorities. We should focus on our spiritual lives and be ready for God's call at any moment. It reminds us that material possessions are not as important as our relationship with God and our readiness for His return.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Luke 17:31
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 17:31 mean?
Luke 17:31 emphasizes the urgency of being spiritually prepared for the coming of God's Kingdom. It illustrates that when the time comes, people should not be distracted by material possessions but focus on their relationship with God.
What is the meaning of 'rooftop' in Luke 17:31?
In Luke 17:31, 'rooftop' symbolizes a place of safety and comfort, suggesting that even in secure situations, one must be ready to act without hesitation when called by God.
How can I apply Luke 17:31 to my life?
You can apply Luke 17:31 by evaluating your priorities and focusing on your spiritual life. It encourages you to be ready for God's call at any moment, placing faith above material possessions.
What themes are present in Luke 17:31?
The themes in Luke 17:31 include urgency, preparedness, and the contrast between spiritual readiness and materialism. It highlights the need to prioritize faith over earthly belongings.
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