Luke 17:34
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 17:34
34 I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.
Chapter Context
Luke 17 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, salvation, worship. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 17:34
34 I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.
Analysis
I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left (λέγω ὑμῖν, ταύτῃ τῇ νυκτὶ ἔσονται δύο ἐπὶ κλίνης μιᾶς, ὁ εἷς παραλημφθήσεται καὶ ὁ ἕτερος ἀφεθήσεται)—Jesus describes the Second Coming's sudden discrimination. En tautē tē nukti (in that night) emphasizes unexpectedness. Two in klinē (bed)—one paralēmphthēsetai (taken) and the other aphethēsetai (left). The passive verbs indicate divine agency—God makes the separation.
Context suggests 'taken' may mean taken in judgment (like Noah's flood taking the wicked), not rapture. The previous verses (vv.26-30) parallel Noah and Lot—in both cases, the wicked were 'taken' in judgment while the righteous were 'left' or delivered. Jesus emphasizes sudden separation based on internal spiritual state, not external circumstances.
Historical Context
The pairing of two in one bed reflects ancient sleeping arrangements—families often shared sleeping spaces. Jesus's point: physical proximity doesn't guarantee spiritual unity. Two people in identical external circumstances face opposite eternal destinies based on their response to Christ. The Second Coming will expose and finalize this division.
Reflection
- What does this passage teach about the suddenness and finality of Christ's return—are you prepared?
- How does knowing that 'two in one bed' face opposite judgments challenge cultural or nominal Christianity?
- In what relationships are you closest to people who may face opposite eternal destinies—how does this affect your witness?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 24:25, 2 Peter 2:9