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Luke 17:21
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Lo here! or, lo there! - Perhaps those Pharisees thought that the Messiah was kept secret, in some private place, known only to some of their rulers; and that by and by he should be proclaimed in a similar way to that in which Joash was by Jehoiada the priest. See the account, Ch2 23:1-11.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Lo here! . . . lo there!--shut up within this or that sharply defined and visible geographical or ecclesiastical limit. within you--is of an internal and spiritual character (as contrasted with their outside views of it). But it has its external side too.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he said unto his disciples,.... Who also were expecting a worldly kingdom, and external honours, and temporal emoluments, and riches; and therefore to take off their minds from these things, and that they might not have their expectations raised this way, but, on the other hand, look for afflictions and persecutions, he observes to them, the days will come when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the son of man; , "the days of the Messiah", a phrase frequently used in Jewish writings; that is, when they should be glad to enjoy one such a day in the personal presence of Christ, as they now did; and instead of looking forward for happy days, in a temporal sense, they would look back upon the days they have enjoyed with Christ, when he was in person among them, and wish they had one of those days again; when besides his corporeal presence, and spiritual communion with him, and the advantage of his ministry and miracles, they bad much outward peace and comfort: whereas in those days nothing but afflictions and persecutions abode them, wherever they went; so that by these words Christ would have them to understand, that they were not to expect better times, but worse, and that they would be glad of one of the days they now had, and in vain wish for it: and ye shall not see it, or enjoy it. Moreover, days and opportunities of public worship, of praying to the Lord, of singing his praise, of hearing his word, and of attending on his ordinances, may be called days of the son of man, or Lord's days; see Rev 1:10 even the first days of weeks, on which days the apostles, and primitive churches, met together for religious worship: and these may very well be called days of the son of man, since, on those days, he first appeared to his disciples, after his resurrection, Joh 20:19 and on the same days his disciples and followers met together to preach in his name, to hear his Gospel, and to commemorate his sufferings and death, Act 20:7 and still continue to do so; and seeing he often meets with his people at such seasons and opportunities, fills them with his Spirit, communicates his grace, and indulges them with fellowship with himself, which make those days desirable ones: but sometimes so violent has been the persecution of the saints, that they have not been able, for a long time, to enjoy one of those days openly, and with freedom, though greatly desired by them; which may be considered as a fulfilment, at least in part, of this prediction of our Lord's: and therefore, whenever this is the case, it should not be thought strange; it is no other than what Christ has foretold should be: and it may teach us to prize, make use of, and improve such days and opportunities, whilst we have them, we know not how soon our teachers may be removed into corners, when we shall wish in vain for them; and seasons of hearing them, as is here suggested: sad it is to know the worth of Gospel opportunities, by the want of them!
Luke 17:21
The Coming of the Kingdom
20When asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The kingdom of God will not come with observable signs. 21Nor will people say, ‘Look, here it is,’ or ‘There it is.’ For you see, the kingdom of God is in your midst. ”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Kingdom of Heaven Is at Hand
By Basilea Schlink56804:30Radio ShowMAT 4:17MAT 5:3MAT 18:3LUK 17:21ACT 3:19ROM 14:171JN 1:9In this sermon, Basilia Schlink discusses the concept of heaven and how each individual can become a part of the kingdom of heaven. She emphasizes that repentance is the key to experiencing the joy and peace of the kingdom. Repentance is the act of turning away from sin and returning to God, and it is through repentance that forgiveness and grace are received. Schlink encourages listeners to seek repentance as their main concern and to create an atmosphere of adoration and love that radiates heaven.
The Gospel of the Kingdom (Mt. 24:14)
By Mike Bickle2046:16Identity in ChristGospel of the KingdomISA 4:2MAT 4:23MAT 12:28MAT 24:14LUK 17:21ACT 17:7ROM 6:14ROM 14:17HEB 13:17REV 22:17Mike Bickle emphasizes the urgency of proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom amidst escalating hostility and chaos in society, as described in Matthew 24. He highlights that the Gospel is not merely about personal salvation but encompasses a comprehensive understanding of God's Kingdom, which includes community, societal impact, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Bickle calls for believers to recognize their identity as the Bride of Christ, actively participating in the proclamation and demonstration of the Kingdom in every nation. He stresses the importance of unity and the role of the church in showcasing God's leadership during these tumultuous times. Ultimately, he encourages the church to prepare for the return of the King by embodying all facets of the Gospel of the Kingdom.
Prayer for the Advancement of Christ's Kingdom
By Edward Payson1PSA 22:27ISA 2:4MAT 6:10MAT 12:30LUK 17:21JHN 3:3ROM 14:172CO 5:17PHP 2:9REV 11:15Edward Payson preaches on the importance of praying for the advancement of Christ's kingdom, emphasizing the divine command to prefer God's glory and the benefits that will result for mankind. He explains that the kingdom of God is spiritual, consisting of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost, and encourages fervent prayers for its universal prevalence. Payson highlights the promises of God for the fulfillment of Christ's kingdom and urges believers to align their actions and hearts with the principles of the kingdom to make their prayers acceptable.
The People Who Receive the Saints' Rest
By Richard Baxter0MRK 2:17LUK 12:32LUK 17:21JHN 3:3ACT 7:59EPH 1:4PHP 1:232TH 1:7HEB 4:9REV 5:9Richard Baxter preaches about the heavenly rest designed for the people of God, who are chosen by God before the foundation of the world and are born again spiritually. These individuals experience conviction of sin, their own insufficiency, and are convinced of the full sufficiency of Jesus Christ. The will of the people of God is changed by their conviction, leading them to accept Christ as Savior and Lord with their whole soul. Baxter urges self-examination to see if one truly belongs to the people of God and emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ and enduring to the end.
The Kingdom Prophesied
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0DEU 30:3PSA 72:11ISA 2:1ISA 7:14ISA 11:1JER 23:5ZEC 14:9MAL 3:1MAT 1:22LUK 17:21Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the significance of the Old Testament prophets speaking during Israel's national dispersion, highlighting the contrast between the nation's dark hour and the prophesied coming glory. The prophets, though speaking at different times, were united in condemning sin, predicting judgment, and envisioning future blessings for Israel under the reign of David's Son. The prophecies point to Immanuel's kingdom being theocratic, heavenly, earthly, centered at Jerusalem, over regathered Israel, and extending to the nations, all to be established by the power of the returning King in a spiritual manner.
The Kingdom of God
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Kingdom of GodSpiritual WarfarePSA 144:15MAT 6:33LUK 17:21ACT 16:31ROM 14:171CO 15:24EPH 6:12COL 1:131TI 1:11REV 21:24T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical state of the spiritual history of the universe, highlighting the increasing opposition to God and the pressing question of which kingdom will prevail. He explains that the Kingdom of God is God's domain, characterized by His nature and filled with His blessedness, and that it is essential for believers to recognize their role in this spiritual battle. The sermon discusses the historical betrayal of God's kingdom by humanity and Israel, and how Christ, as the Last Adam, secures the Kingdom spiritually through His Church. Sparks calls for believers to understand their value in the spiritual realm and to actively engage in the battle against the forces of darkness, asserting that the Kingdom of God is a present reality that requires personal commitment and action.
Conversation With Nicholas Motovilov. - Part 2
By St. Seraphim of Sarov0PSA 145:3MAT 25:40MRK 9:23LUK 17:21JHN 14:16JHN 16:23JHN 16:33EPH 6:9PHP 4:7St. Seraphim of Sarov explains the historical presence and manifestations of the Spirit of God in the world, from Adam to the Old Testament prophets, saints, and even pagans who sought truth. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the actions of the Holy Spirit within us, leading to a clear comprehension of God's work and the need for inner and outer signs of His presence. St. Seraphim recounts the foretelling of Christ's birth, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, and the significance of Baptism and Chrismation in receiving the grace of the Spirit. He describes a profound encounter with the Holy Spirit, demonstrating the warmth, fragrance, peace, joy, and light that accompany His presence, urging believers to seek God's Kingdom within and share His mercy with others.
On Being Inwardly Christian
By A.W. Tozer0Spiritual RenewalInward FaithPSA 51:10MAT 5:8LUK 17:21JHN 14:17ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 3:16COL 1:271JN 4:4A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true Christian faith is an inward experience rather than an outward expression, highlighting that the essence of Christianity lies within the spirit and heart of the believer. He argues that many misunderstand the nature of faith by focusing on external solutions to internal problems, which only perpetuates the rut of the inner person. Tozer asserts that Christ dwells within us, making the inward transformation essential for genuine faith. He calls for believers to recognize that the kingdom of God is within and to seek spiritual renewal from the inside out.
Governed by the Word of God
By David Wilkerson0Authority of ChristGovernance by the Word of GodPSA 66:7PSA 103:19PSA 119:11PSA 119:105PSA 119:162ISA 9:7ISA 14:5ISA 14:12ISA 14:15LUK 17:21HEB 1:1David Wilkerson emphasizes that if Christ is the supreme authority over His kingdom, then our lives must be governed by Him in every aspect. He explains that to be governed by Jesus means allowing Him to control our thoughts, words, and actions, as He rules not only our hearts but also the nations. Despite the moral decay and challenges in society, Wilkerson reassures that God remains in control, and His kingdom is established within us. He encourages believers to increase their submission to Christ's rule and highlights the importance of the Word of God as the means by which Jesus governs us. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper commitment to living under the authority of Christ and His teachings.
Mark 9:1
By Chuck Smith0Living as Citizens of HeavenThe Kingdom of GodMAT 6:10LUK 17:21COL 1:13REV 1:13Chuck Smith discusses the Kingdom of God, explaining that it is where God reigns, both in heaven and within believers' hearts. He emphasizes the contrast between the Kingdom of God and the current kingdom of Satan, highlighting the moral decline in society as a result of moving away from God's laws. Smith also reflects on the future glory of the Kingdom when Jesus returns, describing it as a time of righteousness, peace, and joy, free from suffering and sin. He encourages believers to live as citizens of heaven while navigating a world governed by darkness, urging a commitment to God's values. Ultimately, the Kingdom of God is characterized by love for God and for one another.
On Pilgrimages
By Gregory of Nyssa0PSA 139:23MAT 6:33LUK 17:21JHN 4:23ACT 17:24ROM 8:91CO 3:161CO 6:19COL 3:2Gregory of Nyssa addresses the question of pilgrimage to Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the Gospel and living by its rule. He highlights that true blessedness and the path to the kingdom of heaven do not require physical pilgrimages but rather a life of modesty and devotion to God. Gregory warns against the moral dangers and distractions that can arise from such journeys, pointing out that true holiness is found in the heart and not in external locations. He encourages believers to seek God wherever they are and to cultivate a spirit that welcomes His presence.
The Kingdom and the Cross
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Kingdom of GodThe CrossMAT 3:14MAT 6:10MRK 1:14LUK 10:9LUK 11:20LUK 17:21JHN 14:30ACT 10:38ROM 12:1REV 12:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the Kingdom of God represents God's sovereign rule, which has existed in three phases: past, present, and future. He explains that while the Old Testament showcased God's rule over nations, it foreshadowed the coming of Christ, who brought the Kingdom into the present through His life and ministry. The future aspect of the Kingdom will be fully realized with Christ's return, culminating in a new heaven and earth. Central to all these phases is the Cross of Jesus Christ, which signifies the foundation for God's movement and the necessity of personal commitment to God's will. Sparks urges believers to understand that true progress in the Kingdom is only possible through a deeper understanding and application of the Cross in their lives.
Astrology Theologized
By Valentin Weigel0GEN 1:16LUK 17:21JHN 3:6JHN 17:16ROM 6:6ROM 12:2Valentin Weigel preaches about the deep connection between Astrology and Theology, emphasizing that Astrology, as the study of natural wisdom, must be governed and guided by Theology, which is the saving knowledge of divine and supernatural things. He highlights the importance of surrendering to God and allowing the Spirit of God to lead and transform one's nature, overcoming the influence of the stars and the sinful inclinations of the flesh. Weigel teaches that through the exercise of sanctifying the Sabbath, one can transmute from a worse nature to a better one, by aligning with the Spirit of God within, ruling over the internal stars of concupiscences, and walking in the light of grace.
The Presence of the Holy Spirit in History
By St. Seraphim of Sarov0GEN 3:10JOB 27:3ISA 1:18MAT 11:12LUK 17:21JHN 1:16JHN 7:39REV 7:9St. Seraphim of Sarov explains the importance of recognizing the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, emphasizing the need to return to the simplicity of original Christian knowledge and seek communion with God. He delves into the significance of the Holy Spirit's role in the creation of Adam and Eve, highlighting how their disobedience led to the loss of divine grace. St. Seraphim also discusses the restoration of grace through Jesus Christ, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, and the ongoing struggle to maintain and grow in grace through repentance and virtuous living.
Meditation
By Thomas a Kempis0PSA 73:25MAT 6:19LUK 17:21JHN 14:23ROM 8:172CO 4:18PHP 3:20COL 3:1JAS 4:41JN 2:15Thomas a Kempis preaches about turning to God with all your heart, forsaking the world to find rest in the kingdom of God within you. He emphasizes preparing your heart as a dwelling place for Christ, who offers consolation, peace, and intimacy to those who love Him. Kempis urges believers to place their trust in God alone, as earthly things and relationships are fleeting and unreliable. He encourages focusing on heavenly things, meditating on Christ's passion, and being willing to suffer with and for Christ in order to reign with Him.
The Holiness of Zion's Hill
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual AscendencyHolinessNUM 23:21JOB 42:5PSA 24:3DAN 7:27LUK 17:21JHN 3:3ACT 1:8EPH 3:20HEB 12:28REV 14:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the concept of spiritual ascendency, exploring the necessity for God's people to rise above spiritual challenges and the forces that seek to bring them down. He identifies three realms of ascendency: over the enemy, over our own souls, and with God, highlighting that true power comes from holiness and a pure heart. Sparks illustrates that spiritual power is rooted in holiness, and that the introduction of unholy elements can lead to defeat and corruption. He encourages believers to persevere on their journey to Zion, reminding them that spiritual growth is progressive and requires overcoming obstacles. Ultimately, he reassures that while the path may be difficult, God's power sustains those who seek Him earnestly.
The Church of Our Lord
By Olin Alfred Curtis0MAT 5:14LUK 17:21ROM 14:171CO 15:24EPH 5:27Olin Alfred Curtis preaches about the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that it is the highest good granted by God to the community established through Christ's revelation. While the church represents the visible aspect of His kingdom, they are not interchangeable entities. The Kingdom of God is both a present reality and a future ideal, where God reigns over loyal subjects. The church, as the concrete expression of the Kingdom of Christ, serves as a means to advance towards the ideal Kingdom of God.
The Word Must Precede the Work
By Oswald Chambers0MAT 6:6LUK 17:21JHN 18:361CO 3:6COL 2:7Oswald Chambers preaches about the danger of being consumed by worldly systems that prioritize endless activities over cultivating a private life with God. He emphasizes the importance of the hidden, inner relationship with God, rather than public displays of busyness. Chambers urges Christians to rid themselves of the spirit of the religious age and focus on soaking in the fundamental truths of God's Redemption to remain steadfast in faith when faced with unexpected challenges.
The First Crisis of Redemption
By Charles Ewing Brown0JER 31:33EZK 36:26LUK 17:21JHN 5:10ROM 5:1ROM 8:1ROM 8:15GAL 4:6EPH 2:5Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the historical shift in the understanding of salvation from sin within Christianity, highlighting the apostolic belief in salvation from sin and sinning in the present world. The sermon discusses the gradual lowering of standards over time, leading to the belief that salvation is a future hope rather than a present reality. It emphasizes the importance of returning to the apostolic teaching that salvation is freedom from sin experienced in the current life, as advocated by scholars like Arminius and Wesley.
Members of the Kingdom
By Mary Wilder Tileston0MAT 6:33LUK 17:211CO 3:9PHP 3:20COL 1:13Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the Kingdom of God within us, emphasizing the importance of being conscious workers in God's Kingdom with our unique individuality and surroundings. She highlights how our work, no matter how small, can contribute to the advancement of God's Kingdom, giving even the humblest tasks a sense of consecration. Tileston encourages the idea that being part of God's Kingdom provides a source of comfort and consolation, surpassing any worldly success or failure.
Two Kingdoms - 1
By Anton Bosch0GEN 10:10DAN 2:44LUK 4:5LUK 17:21JHN 18:36HEB 11:26REV 17:17Anton Bosch addresses the misconception among Christians that they can convert the kingdoms of this world into the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that the kingdoms of this world, ruled by Satan, will never transform into God's Kingdom. He highlights the distinction between the two kingdoms, with the world's kingdoms being man-made and anti-God, while God's Kingdom is eternal and spiritual. Through biblical references, he clarifies that God's Kingdom will never be left to other people and will ultimately prevail over the kingdoms of this world.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Lo here! or, lo there! - Perhaps those Pharisees thought that the Messiah was kept secret, in some private place, known only to some of their rulers; and that by and by he should be proclaimed in a similar way to that in which Joash was by Jehoiada the priest. See the account, Ch2 23:1-11.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Lo here! . . . lo there!--shut up within this or that sharply defined and visible geographical or ecclesiastical limit. within you--is of an internal and spiritual character (as contrasted with their outside views of it). But it has its external side too.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he said unto his disciples,.... Who also were expecting a worldly kingdom, and external honours, and temporal emoluments, and riches; and therefore to take off their minds from these things, and that they might not have their expectations raised this way, but, on the other hand, look for afflictions and persecutions, he observes to them, the days will come when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the son of man; , "the days of the Messiah", a phrase frequently used in Jewish writings; that is, when they should be glad to enjoy one such a day in the personal presence of Christ, as they now did; and instead of looking forward for happy days, in a temporal sense, they would look back upon the days they have enjoyed with Christ, when he was in person among them, and wish they had one of those days again; when besides his corporeal presence, and spiritual communion with him, and the advantage of his ministry and miracles, they bad much outward peace and comfort: whereas in those days nothing but afflictions and persecutions abode them, wherever they went; so that by these words Christ would have them to understand, that they were not to expect better times, but worse, and that they would be glad of one of the days they now had, and in vain wish for it: and ye shall not see it, or enjoy it. Moreover, days and opportunities of public worship, of praying to the Lord, of singing his praise, of hearing his word, and of attending on his ordinances, may be called days of the son of man, or Lord's days; see Rev 1:10 even the first days of weeks, on which days the apostles, and primitive churches, met together for religious worship: and these may very well be called days of the son of man, since, on those days, he first appeared to his disciples, after his resurrection, Joh 20:19 and on the same days his disciples and followers met together to preach in his name, to hear his Gospel, and to commemorate his sufferings and death, Act 20:7 and still continue to do so; and seeing he often meets with his people at such seasons and opportunities, fills them with his Spirit, communicates his grace, and indulges them with fellowship with himself, which make those days desirable ones: but sometimes so violent has been the persecution of the saints, that they have not been able, for a long time, to enjoy one of those days openly, and with freedom, though greatly desired by them; which may be considered as a fulfilment, at least in part, of this prediction of our Lord's: and therefore, whenever this is the case, it should not be thought strange; it is no other than what Christ has foretold should be: and it may teach us to prize, make use of, and improve such days and opportunities, whilst we have them, we know not how soon our teachers may be removed into corners, when we shall wish in vain for them; and seasons of hearing them, as is here suggested: sad it is to know the worth of Gospel opportunities, by the want of them!