Luke 17:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 17:20
20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
Chapter Context
Luke 17 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, faith, discipleship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-37: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 17:20
20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
Analysis
Pharisees question about the kingdom: 'And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation.' The Pharisees 'demanded' (ἐπερωτηθεὶς, eperōtētheis, were questioning/interrogating) about 'when the kingdom of God should come' (πότε ἔρχεται ἡ βασιλεία τοῦ θεοῦ, pote erchetai hē basileia tou Theou). They expected a visible, political, military messianic kingdom overthrowing Rome. Jesus' answer contradicts this: 'The kingdom of God cometh not with observation' (οὐκ ἔρχεται μετὰ παρατηρήσεως, ouk erchetai meta paratērēseōs). The term 'observation' means careful watching for visible signs. The kingdom doesn't arrive with trumpet blasts, military conquest, or political revolution but through spiritual transformation invisible to physical eyes.
Historical Context
Jewish messianic expectations focused on visible restoration of Davidic monarchy, Jerusalem's exaltation, and Israel's dominance. These hopes fueled revolutionary movements throughout the first century. Jesus consistently disappointed these expectations, teaching that His kingdom was 'not of this world' (John 18:36). The kingdom came through His death and resurrection, establishing spiritual reign over hearts before eventual visible return in glory. The Pharisees' question reflected political hopes; Jesus' answer redirected to spiritual realities. This teaching prepared disciples for a kingdom that advances through gospel proclamation, not military might; through suffering service, not political power; through death and resurrection, not revolution.
Reflection
- How did Jesus' teaching about the kingdom's nature contradict Jewish expectations?
- What does it mean that the kingdom comes 'not with observation'—without visible signs?
- How should this teaching shape Christian expectations about the church's role in politics and culture?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Luke 10:11, 16:16, 19:11, Daniel 2:44, John 18:36
- Parallel theme: Zechariah 4:6