Understanding Luke 21:10
Verse: Luke 21:10 - "Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom."
Overview
In this passage, Jesus is predicting the tumultuous times that the world will encounter, particularly emphasizing the rise of conflict
and strife among nations and kingdoms. The verse serves as a somber backdrop to the eschatological predictions that follow,
revealing the state of the world in the latter days.
Commentary Insights
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Matthew Henry: This commentator highlights that Jesus' warning is directed towards the disciples who are to
prepare themselves for trials. Conflict is a sign of the times; it suggests the discord that will signify the nearing of
God's ultimate plan.
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Albert Barnes: Barnes elucidates that this verse connects to the broader theme of intense unrest that
will characterize the last days. He emphasizes the nature of human conflict as inherent and speaks to the prophetic nature
of Jesus' words.
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Adam Clarke: Clarke interprets “nation against nation” as a warning of impending wars and global tensions.
He draws parallels to both historical and future conflicts that reflect a world in turmoil.
Bible Cross-References
This passage can be connected to various other scriptures that reflect themes of conflict and prophecy:
- Matthew 24:6-7: "And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars..."
- Mark 13:8: "For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom..."
- Revelation 6:4: "And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon
to take peace from the earth..."
- Isaiah 19:2: "And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians: and they shall fight every one against
his brother..."
- James 4:1: "From whence come wars and fightings among you? Come they not hence, even of your lusts
that war in your members?"
- Micah 4:3: "And he shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off..."
- Jeremiah 50:9: "For, lo, I will raise and cause to come up against Babylon an assembly of great nations..."
Thematic Connections
The theme of conflict within Luke 21:10 can be linked to broader biblical teachings:
- Biblical prophecy depicts an ongoing struggle between nations as a prelude to divine intervention.
- Nations rising against nations illustrates the fulfillment of God's forewarnings through the prophets.
- This verse exemplifies the necessity of spiritual readiness amidst worldly instabilities.
Conclusions
Luke 21:10 serves not only as a prediction but also as a call to understand the nature of human conflict in relation to
divine prophecy. The connections established through cross-referencing various scriptures deepen our comprehension of
God's overarching narrative about humanity's struggles and the eventual restoration.
Tools for Further Study
For those interested in deeper exploration, here are some tools and methods for Bible cross-referencing that can enrich
your study:
- Bible Concordance: A useful tool for finding specific verses and their contexts.
- Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Helps in tracing thematic or situational links between verses.
- Cross-Reference Bible Study Methods: Techniques like thematic mapping can illuminate connections.