Luke 21:23

How miserable those days will be for pregnant and nursing mothers! For there will be great distress upon the land and wrath against this people.

Study Bible

How miserable those days will be
This phrase captures the intense suffering and hardship that will characterize the prophesied period. The Greek word for "miserable" (οὐαί, ouai) is an expression of deep lamentation and woe, often used in prophetic literature to denote impending judgment or disaster. Historically, this reflects the severe trials faced during the Roman siege of Jerusalem in 70 AD, a time of unparalleled distress for the Jewish people. The phrase serves as a solemn warning, urging believers to remain vigilant and faithful amidst tribulation.

for pregnant and nursing mothers!
The mention of "pregnant and nursing mothers" highlights the particular vulnerability of these individuals during times of crisis. In the ancient world, pregnancy and nursing were already fraught with challenges, and the added burden of societal upheaval would exacerbate their plight. The Greek term for "pregnant" (ἐν γαστρὶ ἔχουσαι, en gastri echousai) and "nursing" (θηλάζουσαι, thēlazousai) emphasize the natural, nurturing roles of women, which become sources of additional suffering in times of distress. This underscores the compassion of Jesus, who acknowledges the specific hardships faced by different groups during catastrophic events.

For there will be great distress upon the land
The "great distress" (ἀνάγκη μεγάλη, anagkē megalē) refers to the intense suffering and turmoil that will engulf the land. The term "land" (γῆ, gē) can be understood both as the physical territory of Israel and symbolically as the broader realm of human existence under divine judgment. This distress is not merely a result of human conflict but is portrayed as a divinely ordained consequence of the people's actions, reflecting the biblical theme of reaping what one sows. Historically, this aligns with the catastrophic events of the Jewish-Roman War, which brought widespread devastation to Judea.

and wrath against this people
The "wrath" (ὀργή, orgē) signifies divine anger and judgment directed towards "this people," referring specifically to the Jewish nation that rejected Jesus as the Messiah. This phrase echoes the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament, where God's wrath is often depicted as a response to covenant unfaithfulness and idolatry. The historical context of the destruction of Jerusalem serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's covenant. From a theological perspective, this wrath is not arbitrary but is rooted in God's holiness and justice, calling His people to repentance and faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pregnant and Nursing Mothers
This group is highlighted to emphasize vulnerability and the severity of the coming distress. In the context of ancient society, these women would have been particularly at risk during times of upheaval.

2. The Land
Refers to the region of Judea, which is the focal point of the prophecy. This is the geographical area where the predicted events will unfold.

3. This People
Refers to the Jewish people, who are the primary audience of Jesus' prophecy. The phrase indicates a specific group that will experience the foretold wrath.

4. Great Distress
This term describes the intense suffering and turmoil that will occur. It is a period of significant tribulation and hardship.

5. Wrath
Represents divine judgment and anger. In the context of this passage, it signifies God's response to the people's actions and the unfolding of prophetic events.

Teaching Points

Understanding Prophetic Warnings
Recognize the importance of Jesus' warnings about future events. These are not just historical predictions but serve as spiritual lessons for preparedness and faithfulness.

Compassion for the Vulnerable
The mention of pregnant and nursing mothers highlights the need for compassion and support for those who are most vulnerable during times of crisis.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
Acknowledge the reality of God's judgment as a response to sin and rebellion. This should lead to a sober reflection on our own lives and communities.

Urgency of Repentance
The impending distress calls for immediate repentance and turning back to God. It is a reminder that the time to seek God's mercy is now.

Hope Amidst Tribulation
While the passage speaks of distress, it also points to the hope of redemption and deliverance for those who remain faithful.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the mention of pregnant and nursing mothers in Luke 21:23 emphasize the severity of the coming distress?

2. In what ways can we prepare spiritually for times of great distress, as described in Luke 21 and related passages?

3. How do the themes of divine wrath and judgment in Luke 21:23 connect with other biblical passages, such as those in Revelation?

4. What practical steps can we take to support and protect the vulnerable in our communities, especially during times of crisis?

5. How can the urgency of repentance and readiness for Christ's return be applied in our daily lives and spiritual practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 24
This chapter parallels Luke 21 and provides additional details about the end times and the signs of Jesus' return. It emphasizes the urgency and seriousness of the events described.

Revelation 6
The seals in Revelation describe similar themes of distress and divine wrath, offering a broader eschatological context.

Jeremiah 30
Known as the "time of Jacob's trouble," this passage speaks of a period of great distress for Israel, which aligns with the themes in Luke 21.