New Testament
Luke 17:36
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 of His return and the division that will occur among people.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Two men will be in the field; one will be taken, and the other left.
Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is illustrating the suddenness of His return and the division that will occur among people. The imagery of two men working in a field signifies the normalcy of life when the unexpected happens. One man is taken, which suggests he is chosen or saved, while the other is left behind, indicating a separation based on readiness and faith. This reflects the broader theme of being prepared for the coming of the Lord, as it can happen at any moment. The context of this verse is about the end times and the importance of vigilance and faithfulness in one’s life. It serves as a reminder that not everyone will be taken; some will be left, emphasizing the need for personal accountability and spiritual readiness. The verse encourages believers to live in a way that reflects their faith, as the return of Christ will be sudden and without warning, making it crucial to be always prepared. Explore related preparedness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 17:36 to your life
This verse challenges us to evaluate our spiritual readiness. We should live each day with the awareness that Christ could return at any moment. Engaging in regular self-reflection, prayer, and community can help us stay prepared and aligned with our faith, ensuring we are among those who are taken.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 17:36 mean?
Luke 17:36 illustrates the suddenness of Jesus' return and the division among people at that time. It emphasizes that while some will be taken, others will be left behind, highlighting the importance of being spiritually prepared.
What is the meaning of 'one will be taken, and the other left' in Luke 17:36?
The phrase 'one will be taken, and the other left' signifies a separation based on readiness and faith. It suggests that those who are prepared and faithful will be chosen, while those who are not will remain.
How does Luke 17:36 relate to being prepared for Christ's return?
Luke 17:36 emphasizes the need for personal accountability and spiritual readiness. It encourages believers to live each day with the awareness that Christ could return suddenly, urging them to reflect on their faith.
What themes are present in Luke 17:36?
Key themes in Luke 17:36 include readiness, separation, faithfulness, end times, and vigilance. These themes highlight the importance of being spiritually prepared for the unexpected return of Christ.

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.
Unlock the full Luke summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Luke — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Luke summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.