New Testament

Luke 21:23

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 expresses deep concern for pregnant women and nursing mothers during a time of great suffering and turmoil.

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

How terrible it will be for pregnant women and nursing mothers in those days! There will be great distress in the land and wrath upon this people.

KJVKing James Version

But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus expresses deep concern for pregnant women and nursing mothers during a time of great suffering and turmoil. He warns that the days ahead will be filled with immense distress and divine judgment upon the people. The mention of pregnant and nursing women highlights the vulnerability of those who are caring for young children, emphasizing the severity of the situation. This warning serves as a reminder of the challenges that families will face in times of crisis, where the innocent and helpless often bear the brunt of societal upheaval. The phrase 'great distress' indicates not just physical suffering but also emotional and spiritual turmoil. Jesus' words reflect the compassion He has for those who will endure hardship, urging listeners to recognize the gravity of the impending events and to prepare themselves spiritually and practically for the challenges ahead.

How to apply Luke 21:23 to your life

This verse encourages us to be mindful of those who are vulnerable during difficult times, especially families with young children. It reminds us to offer support and compassion to those in distress and to prepare ourselves spiritually for challenges that may arise in our lives.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 21:23 mean for pregnant women?

In Luke 21:23, Jesus expresses a warning about the difficult times ahead, particularly highlighting the plight of pregnant women and nursing mothers. This emphasizes their vulnerability during crises, as they bear the additional burden of caring for young children. The verse serves as a reminder of the unique challenges faced by families in distressing situations, urging us to consider their needs and offer support.

Why does Jesus mention nursing mothers in this verse?

Jesus mentions nursing mothers in Luke 21:23 to illustrate the heightened vulnerability of those caring for infants during times of great distress. This highlights the emotional and physical challenges that families face in crises, as the innocent often suffer the most. It serves as a call for compassion and awareness towards those who are in particularly difficult situations.

How can we apply Luke 21:23 in our lives today?

Luke 21:23 encourages us to be aware of and support vulnerable individuals, especially families with young children, during challenging times. It reminds us to extend compassion and assistance to those in distress, whether through practical help or emotional support. Additionally, it prompts us to prepare ourselves spiritually for potential hardships, fostering resilience and community care.

What is the significance of 'great distress' in this verse?

The phrase 'great distress' in Luke 21:23 signifies not only physical suffering but also emotional and spiritual turmoil that will affect the people during tumultuous times. It underscores the severity of the impending events and serves as a warning to be vigilant and prepared. This distress is a call to recognize the gravity of the situation and the need for compassion towards those who will be most affected.

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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