New Testament
Luke 21:12
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But before any of that happens, people will seize you and persecute you. They'll drag you into synagogues and throw you in prison. You'll be brought before kings and governors because of my name.
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But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake.
What Luke 21:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus warns his followers that before the end times come, they will face significant persecution. People will actively seek to harm them, dragging them into places of worship and imprisoning them. This suffering will not be random; it will happen because they are associated with Jesus and his teachings. They will even be brought before powerful leaders, such as kings and governors, to answer for their faith. This passage highlights the challenges that believers may face for their commitment to Christ, emphasizing that their faith may lead to trials and tribulations. However, it also serves as a reminder that such experiences are part of the Christian journey and that they should remain steadfast in their beliefs despite the opposition they encounter.
How to apply Luke 21:12 to your life
When facing challenges for your beliefs, remember that persecution can be a part of the Christian experience. Stay strong in your faith and seek support from your community. Use these moments to witness to others about your commitment to Christ, even in difficult circumstances.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Teaching on the Mount of Olives (Luke 21:5–36)
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Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Luke 21:12
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 21:12 teach about persecution?
Luke 21:12 teaches that persecution is a reality for followers of Christ. Jesus warns that believers will face hostility and be dragged into synagogues and prisons because of their faith. This verse emphasizes that such suffering is expected and part of the Christian journey, highlighting the importance of remaining steadfast in belief despite challenges.
How should Christians respond to persecution according to Luke 21:12?
According to Luke 21:12, Christians should respond to persecution with courage and faith. Jesus encourages believers to remain strong in their convictions and to view their suffering as a testimony to their commitment to Him. It’s important to seek support from fellow believers and use these experiences as opportunities to witness to others about their faith.
What is the significance of being brought before kings and governors?
Being brought before kings and governors, as mentioned in Luke 21:12, signifies that the faith of believers will be tested in front of powerful authorities. This highlights the seriousness of their commitment to Christ and serves as an opportunity to witness to influential figures. It underscores the idea that faith can lead to significant encounters and that believers should be prepared to defend their beliefs.
Does Luke 21:12 relate to the end times?
Yes, Luke 21:12 is part of a larger discourse where Jesus speaks about the signs of the end times. He indicates that before these events unfold, believers will face persecution. This connection emphasizes that trials and tribulations are part of the Christian experience leading up to the fulfillment of God's promises in the end times.
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