New Testament

Luke 17:34

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 illustrating the suddenness and unpredictability of His return.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

I tell you, on that night there will be two men in one bed; one will be taken, and the other will be left.

KJVKing James Version

I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus is illustrating the suddenness and unpredictability of His return. The imagery of two men in one bed emphasizes that people can be very close to each other, yet their fates can be drastically different. One man will be taken, symbolizing those who are prepared and will be gathered to Him, while the other will be left behind, representing those who are unprepared or unaware of the impending event. This teaching serves as a reminder that the coming of the Son of Man will occur unexpectedly, and individuals must be vigilant and ready at all times. The context of this verse is part of a larger discourse on the end times, where Jesus encourages His followers to live righteously and remain alert, as the day of His return will come like a thief in the night, catching many off guard. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a faithful and watchful life in anticipation of His return. Explore related preparedness.

How to apply Luke 17:34 to your life

This verse encourages us to live with a sense of urgency and readiness for Christ's return. We should evaluate our lives and relationships, ensuring we are spiritually prepared. It reminds us to share the message of hope with others, as the time is uncertain and we want everyone to be ready.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 17:34 mean?

Luke 17:34 illustrates the suddenness of Jesus' return, showing that even those close to each other can have different fates. One person will be taken, symbolizing readiness for His return, while the other will be left behind, representing unpreparedness.

What is the significance of 'two men in one bed' in Luke 17:34?

The phrase 'two men in one bed' emphasizes the closeness of relationships and the unexpected nature of Christ's return. It highlights that proximity does not guarantee salvation, as one may be taken and the other left.

How does Luke 17:34 relate to preparedness?

Luke 17:34 stresses the need for personal readiness for Christ's return. It encourages individuals to evaluate their spiritual lives and relationships to ensure they are prepared for the unexpected event.

What themes are present in Luke 17:34?

Key themes in Luke 17:34 include preparedness, the suddenness of Christ's return, judgment, and the separation of fates. It highlights the importance of living a vigilant and faithful life.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

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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