Luke 11:29

As the crowds were increasing, Jesus said, "This is a wicked generation. It demands a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah.

Study Bible

As the crowds were increasing
This phrase sets the scene, indicating that Jesus was gaining popularity and attention. The Greek word for "crowds" is "ὄχλοι" (ochloi), suggesting a large, diverse group of people. Historically, this reflects the growing interest in Jesus' ministry, as people were drawn to His teachings and miracles. The increasing crowds symbolize the widespread curiosity and the varied motivations of those who followed Him, ranging from genuine seekers to skeptics.

Jesus said
The authority of Jesus is emphasized here. In the Greek, "εἶπεν" (eipen) is used, which is a simple past tense verb meaning "said." This highlights the direct and authoritative nature of Jesus' teaching. In the context of the Gospels, whenever Jesus speaks, it is with divine authority, offering insights into the kingdom of God and the nature of true righteousness.

This is a wicked generation
The term "wicked" comes from the Greek "πονηρά" (ponera), which can mean evil, morally corrupt, or spiritually adulterous. Jesus is addressing the moral and spiritual state of the people. Historically, this reflects the Jewish leaders' and many people's rejection of Jesus despite witnessing His miracles and hearing His teachings. The term "generation" (γενεά, genea) refers not just to a specific age group but to the collective mindset and spiritual condition of the people at that time.

It demands a sign
The Greek word for "demands" is "ζητεῖ" (zētei), meaning to seek or require. This reflects a persistent and insistent request for proof of Jesus' divine authority. The demand for a sign indicates a lack of faith and a desire for spectacle rather than a genuine pursuit of truth. Biblically, this echoes the Israelites' repeated demands for signs during their wilderness journey, revealing a heart condition that struggles with trust and obedience.

but none will be given it
This phrase underscores the futility of their demand. The Greek "οὐ δοθήσεται" (ou dothēsetai) is a strong negation, emphasizing that no sign will be provided on their terms. Jesus is not a performer of miracles for entertainment or to satisfy skepticism. This statement challenges the listeners to seek faith and understanding beyond mere signs and wonders.

except the sign of Jonah
The "sign of Jonah" is a profound reference to the prophet Jonah's experience in the belly of the great fish for three days and nights, as recorded in the Old Testament. In Greek, "σημεῖον Ἰωνᾶ" (sēmeion Iōna) connects Jonah's account to Jesus' own death and resurrection. Historically and theologically, this points to the ultimate sign of Jesus' authority and divinity: His resurrection. Just as Jonah's deliverance was a sign to the Ninevites, Jesus' resurrection would be the definitive sign to His generation, affirming His identity as the Messiah and the Son of God. This calls the audience to recognize the deeper spiritual truths and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is addressing the crowd and responding to their demand for a sign. He is the Son of God, the Messiah, and the ultimate revelation of God's will.

2. The Crowds
These are the people gathered around Jesus, seeking a sign from Him. They represent a generation that is skeptical and demanding proof of Jesus' divine authority.

3. The Sign of Jonah
Jesus refers to the prophet Jonah as a sign to the Ninevites, drawing a parallel to His own mission and the sign He will provide through His death and resurrection.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Seeking Signs
Jesus warns against a faith that relies solely on miraculous signs. True faith trusts in God's word and promises, even when evidence is not immediately visible.

The Sign of Jonah as a Call to Repentance
Just as Jonah's message led the Ninevites to repentance, Jesus' life, death, and resurrection call us to turn from sin and embrace the gospel.

Recognizing Jesus as the Ultimate Revelation
Jesus is the ultimate sign from God. His life and works fulfill the prophecies and reveal God's plan of salvation. Believers are called to recognize and respond to this truth.

Faith Beyond Sight
Believers are encouraged to cultivate a faith that does not depend on physical signs but trusts in the spiritual truths revealed in Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the demand for a sign reflect the spiritual condition of the crowd in Luke 11:29, and how can this be seen in today's society?

2. In what ways does the account of Jonah serve as a foreshadowing of Jesus' mission and message?

3. How can we apply the lesson of faith without signs in our daily walk with Christ, especially when facing doubts or challenges?

4. What are some modern-day "signs" that people might seek, and how can we redirect our focus to the truth of the gospel?

5. How does understanding Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God impact our approach to reading and interpreting Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 12:38-42
This passage parallels Luke 11:29, where Jesus also speaks of the sign of Jonah, emphasizing the need for faith and repentance.

Jonah 1:17 and 3:1-10
These verses recount Jonah's time in the belly of the fish and his subsequent preaching to Nineveh, which led to their repentance. This serves as a foreshadowing of Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection.

John 20:29
Jesus speaks to Thomas about the blessedness of those who believe without seeing, which ties into the theme of faith without demanding signs.