Luke 21:28
And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Early church faced persecution, marginalization, and mockery. Paul encouraged Thessalonians awaiting Christ's return (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18), urging them to "comfort one another with these words." Throughout church history, persecuted believers have clung to Jesus' promise—present suffering is temporary; redemption approaches. The phrase "lift up your heads" echoes Psalm 24:7-9 ("Lift up your heads, O ye gates"), celebrating the King of glory's entrance. Christ's return is coronation day for believers—they inherit the kingdom prepared from the world's foundation (Matthew 25:34). This hope sustained martyrs, comforted the afflicted, and motivated holy living throughout two millennia.
Questions for Reflection
- How can the same eschatological events cause terror in unbelievers but joyful anticipation in believers?
- What does the command to 'lift up your heads' reveal about the dignity and confidence appropriate for those awaiting Christ's return?
- How should the nearness of 'redemption' affect Christian endurance through present trials and persecution?
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Analysis & Commentary
And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. While unbelievers' hearts fail (v. 26), believers receive opposite commands—anakyptate kai eparate tas kephalas hymōn (ἀνακύψατε καὶ ἐπάρατε τὰς κεφαλὰς ὑμῶν, "straighten up and lift up your heads"). Both verbs are aorist imperatives—decisive commands. Anakyptō (ἀνακύπτω) means to straighten up from a stooped position, to look up; epairō (ἐπαίρω) means to lift up, raise. The posture contrasts despair's bowed head with hope's uplifted gaze.
The timing is archomenōn de toutōn ginesthai (ἀρχομένων δὲ τούτων γίνεσθαι, "when these things begin to happen")—not at completion but at commencement. When cosmic signs start, believers should respond with eager anticipation, not terror. The reason: dioti engizei hē apolytrōsis hymōn (διότι ἐγγίζει ἡ ἀπολύτρωσις ὑμῶν, "because your redemption draws near"). The noun apolytrōsis (ἀπολύτρωσις) means release, deliverance, ransom—full salvation including bodily resurrection (Romans 8:23, Ephesians 4:30).
This verse reveals believers' radically different perspective on eschatological events. What terrifies unbelievers thrills believers—the same events signal judgment for some, redemption for others. The command to "lift up your heads" suggests confidence, dignity, joy—posture befitting those approaching liberation, not condemnation.