Commentary on Luke 17:36
In Luke 17:36, we read: "Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left." This verse is part of Jesus' teaching about the coming of the Kingdom and the suddenness of the Day of the Lord. Various public domain commentaries provide valuable insights into its meaning which we will summarize and explore.
Contextual Analysis
This verse appears in a section where Jesus discusses the distinctions between the righteous and the wicked at the time of His return. It's important to understand it in the context of the surrounding verses, particularly Luke 17:20-37, where He teaches about the nature of His coming and the criteria for salvation.
The Nature of the Kingdom
Matthew Henry emphasizes that the Kingdom of God does not come with outward signs, but rather it is within the hearts of believers (Luke 17:20-21). When Jesus mentions the two men in the field, it reflects the unpredictability and suddenness of His return. The distinctions here are crucial—the one taken signifies being chosen or accepted by God, while the one left symbolizes judgment.
The Suddenness of Christ's Coming
A prevalent theme among commentators is the unexpected nature of Jesus' return. Adam Clarke notes that just as it was in the days of Noah and Lot, many will be engaged in life’s daily activities unaware of the impending judgment. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the necessity for constant vigilance and preparedness for believers, echoing the exhortation in Matthew 24:42 to "watch therefore."
Theological Implications
The implications of this verse extend beyond a mere description of events; they invite deep theological reflection:
- Election and Reprobation: The idea of one taken and one left can be interpreted as an illustration of God's sovereign choice. Albert Barnes emphasizes the concept of divine election, which indicates a predetermined selection of those who will be saved.
- Judgment: The disparity between the two men points to the reality of judgment day. Those left are indicative of those who rejected Christ. This concept of judgment is consistent with the theme found throughout the New Testament, where separation occurs at the second coming.
- Readiness: To be ready for the Lord's return is a critical takeaway. Matthew Henry points out that believers must remain spiritually alert and engaged since no one knows the hour (Matthew 25:13).
Pastoral Application
For pastors and church leaders, Luke 17:36 serves as a profound call to shepherd their congregations towards readiness and holiness. It encourages:
- Teaching on Eschatology: Pastors should integrate teachings on the second coming of Christ, emphasizing its sudden nature and the reality of eternal consequences.
- Vigilance in Ministry: Inspire congregations to live out their faith daily, being mindful of how they live, as every day is an opportunity to reflect Christ and share the Gospel.
- Encouragement in Trials: In a world that often distracts from spiritual priorities, this verse provides hope and encouragement to believe that God’s timing is perfect and that He is in control.
Conclusion
In summary, Luke 17:36 is a gripping reminder of the tension that exists between the everyday lives of believers and the impending return of Christ. It encourages spiritual vigilance, highlights the certainty of judgment, and emphasizes the importance of being in a right relationship with God. By synthesizing the insights from various commentaries, we see a multifaceted understanding of the text that challenges, informs, and inspires faith practices today.
