New Testament
Luke 21:24
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They will be killed by the sword and taken as prisoners to every nation. Jerusalem will be trampled by the Gentiles until the era of the Gentiles comes to an end.
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And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.
What Luke 21:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus predicts a time of great suffering for the people of Jerusalem. He speaks of violence, where many will die by the sword, and others will be taken captive to various nations. This reflects the turmoil and destruction that will come upon Jerusalem, particularly during the Roman siege. The phrase 'Jerusalem will be trampled by the Gentiles' indicates that non-Jewish nations will dominate the city until a specific period, referred to as the 'times of the Gentiles,' comes to an end. This suggests a future restoration for Jerusalem and the Jewish people, highlighting a significant shift in power and spiritual significance. The verse serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of remaining faithful during difficult times. It also emphasizes the sovereignty of God over history, as He has a plan for both Jerusalem and the nations.
How to apply Luke 21:24 to your life
This verse reminds us that difficult times may come, but they are part of a larger plan. We should remain faithful and hopeful, trusting that God has a purpose even in our struggles. It encourages us to support those who are suffering and to seek peace in our communities.
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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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 21:24 mean?
Luke 21:24 describes a time of suffering for Jerusalem, where many will die and others will be taken captive. It indicates that Jerusalem will be under the control of non-Jewish nations until a future time of restoration.
What is the meaning of 'times of the Gentiles' in Luke 21:24?
The 'times of the Gentiles' refers to a period when non-Jewish nations dominate Jerusalem. This period will continue until God's plan for restoration is fulfilled.
How does Luke 21:24 relate to the suffering of Jerusalem?
Luke 21:24 highlights the violence and captivity that will befall Jerusalem, reflecting the historical turmoil during the Roman siege and the broader implications for the Jewish people.
What themes are present in Luke 21:24?
Key themes in Luke 21:24 include prophecy, suffering, the dominance of Gentiles over Jerusalem, captivity, and the eventual restoration of the city and its people.
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