Bible Commentary on Luke 17:28
Luke 17:28 states: "Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded;" This verse provides insight into the state of humanity at the time of Lot, paralleling it with the present conditions leading up to the coming judgment.
Contextual Background
In understanding Luke 17:28, it is essential to consider the broader context in which Jesus spoke. This statement is part of a larger discourse on the coming of the Son of Man and the suddenness of divine judgment, drawing from the historical accounts of Genesis concerning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Insights from Matthew Henry
Matthew Henry describes the condition of Sodom as one of moral depravity and spiritual blindness. He notes:
- Everyday Life: The mention of eating, drinking, buying, and selling emphasizes the normalcy of life during Lot's time.
- Complacency and Warning: Despite the natural human activities, there was a significant disregard for the impending judgment, which serves as a warning for present generations against complacency.
- Judgment Unexpected: Just as the flood caught the people of Noah's day by surprise, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah was unexpected for its inhabitants, illustrating the suddenness of God’s judgment.
Reflections by Albert Barnes
Albert Barnes provides a theological interpretation of the verse, emphasizing the spiritual implications of the routines of life:
- Social & Material Preoccupations: The people were absorbed in their daily affairs, illustrating a lack of awareness of God's kingdom and His righteous expectations.
- Divine Mercy vs. Judgment: Barnes notes the patience of God in delaying judgment while people remained engrossed in their material pursuits, yet underscores the certainty of eventual accountability.
- Call to Vigilance: This passage serves as an exhortation for believers to prepare for Christ's return and to remain spiritually vigilant amidst worldly distractions.
Adam Clarke's Exposition
Adam Clarke further elaborates on the significance of life in Sodom, highlighting:
- Cultural Narratives: The activities of eating and drinking reflect a culture that indulges in physical pleasures, suggesting a moral decay similar to contemporary society.
- Historical Parallel: Clarke points out the deliberate incorporation of the Sodom narrative as a lesson that affluence and pleasure can lead to spiritual apathy.
- Warning for Believers: He calls Christians to remain discerning and separate from the societal norms that may lead them away from God's design and judgment.
Thematic Applications
When synthesizing the insights of these esteemed commentators, several thematic applications emerge from Luke 17:28:
The Danger of Complacency
Believers are reminded that everyday life can often lead to a state of spiritual complacency. Just as the people in Lot's time were engaged in their daily routines, they failed to heed the warnings of judgment to come.
The Importance of Vigilance
The verse serves as a powerful call for vigilance. It encourages individuals to reflect on their priorities and values, ensuring that they remain watchful and prepared for Christ’s return amidst distractions.
Judgment Does Not Delay Indefinitely
Furthermore, the apparent delay of judgment does not equate with the absence of judgment. God's patience is not a license for sinners but a call to repentance, signifying the reality of divine accountability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Luke 17:28 encapsulates profound truths that resonate with the present experience of believers. Insights drawn from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke collectively emphasize the significance of recognizing patterns of life that can lead to spiritual indifference. As pastors, theologians, and students of Scripture meditate on this verse, they are called to reconcile their daily lives with an eternal perspective, always mindful of God’s righteous nature and the imminent return of the Lord.
