Luke 21:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 21:35
35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.
Chapter Context
Luke 21 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, sacrifice, hope. 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 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 21:35
35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.
Analysis
For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth (ὡς παγὶς γὰρ ἐπεισελεύσεται ἐπὶ πάντας τοὺς καθημένους ἐπὶ πρόσωπον πάσης τῆς γῆς, hōs pagis gar epeiseleusetai epi pantas tous kathēmenous epi prosōpon pasēs tēs gēs)—Pagis (snare, trap) describes sudden, inescapable capture. The verb epeiserchomai (to come upon, rush in) in future tense guarantees certainty. The scope is universal: pantas tous kathēmenous epi prosōpon pasēs tēs gēs (all those dwelling on the face of the whole earth).
This echoes Old Testament prophetic warnings about the Day of the LORD (Joel 2:1-2, Zephaniah 1:14-18)—a day of reckoning for all humanity, not just Israel. The kathēmenous (dwelling, settling) implies those comfortably established in earthly life, unaware of impending judgment. A snare works through deception—the victim doesn't see it coming. Similarly, those absorbed in earthly concerns won't recognize eschatological signs until too late.
Historical Context
First-century Christians anticipated Christ's imminent return, but Jesus warns that 'that day' will affect all earth-dwellers regardless of expectation. The global scope challenges parochial views of judgment limited to Israel or Jerusalem. Revelation 3:10 promises believers will be kept 'from the hour of trial coming on the whole world.'
Reflection
- How does the imagery of a snare emphasize the suddenness and inescapability of judgment for the unprepared?
- What does the universal scope ('whole earth') teach about God's sovereignty and the gospel's global implications?
- How can you avoid becoming so 'settled' in earthly dwelling that you lose awareness of eternal realities?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Revelation 16:15