Luke 21:15

For I will give you speech and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.

Study Bible

For I will give you
This phrase emphasizes the divine source of the promise. The Greek word for "give" is "δίδωμι" (didōmi), which implies a gift or bestowal. In the context of the New Testament, this often refers to spiritual gifts or divine enablement. Here, Jesus assures His followers that He Himself will provide what is necessary for their defense. This promise is a reminder of God's sovereignty and His active role in equipping believers for the challenges they face.

speech and wisdom
The Greek words used here are "στόμα" (stoma) for "speech" and "σοφία" (sophia) for "wisdom." "Stoma" literally means "mouth," indicating the ability to articulate thoughts clearly and effectively. "Sophia" refers to a higher wisdom, often associated with divine insight and understanding. In the biblical context, wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but a deep, God-given understanding that guides one's actions and words. This combination of speech and wisdom suggests that believers will be empowered to communicate truth with clarity and divine insight.

that none of your adversaries
The term "adversaries" comes from the Greek "ἀντικείμενοι" (antikeimenoi), meaning those who oppose or stand against. In the early Christian context, adversaries could be religious leaders, political authorities, or anyone opposing the message of the Gospel. This phrase acknowledges the reality of opposition but also implies that such opposition is powerless against the divine provision given to believers.

will be able to resist
The Greek word "ἀντιστῆναι" (antistēnai) means to stand against or oppose. This implies a confrontation or challenge. The promise here is that the adversaries will not have the strength or ability to withstand the divinely inspired speech and wisdom given to the believers. This assurance is a source of encouragement, emphasizing that God's power is greater than any human opposition.

or contradict
The word "ἀντειπεῖν" (anteipein) means to speak against or refute. This suggests that the arguments or accusations of the adversaries will be rendered ineffective. The divine wisdom and speech given to believers will be so compelling and truthful that it cannot be successfully challenged or disproven. This highlights the ultimate triumph of truth over falsehood and the assurance that God's word will prevail.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, providing assurance to His disciples about the divine assistance they will receive.

2. Disciples
The immediate audience of Jesus' teaching, who are being prepared for future persecution and trials.

3. Adversaries
Those who oppose the disciples and the message of the Gospel, representing both spiritual and earthly opposition.

4. Jerusalem
The broader context of Luke 21 includes Jesus' prophecy about the destruction of Jerusalem, a significant event for the early Christian community.

5. The Early Church
The community of believers who would face persecution and need the promised wisdom and speech.

Teaching Points

Divine Empowerment
Believers can trust that God will provide the necessary wisdom and words in times of trial and persecution.

Reliance on the Holy Spirit
The promise of wisdom is a reminder to depend on the Holy Spirit rather than our own understanding or eloquence.

Courage in Witnessing
Knowing that God equips us with wisdom should embolden us to share the Gospel, even in the face of opposition.

Preparation for Persecution
This verse prepares believers for the reality of opposition, encouraging them to stand firm in faith.

God's Faithfulness
The assurance of divine assistance underscores God's faithfulness to His promises and His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of divine wisdom in Luke 21:15 encourage you in your personal witness for Christ?

2. In what ways can you cultivate a greater reliance on the Holy Spirit for wisdom in your daily life?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt God gave you the right words to say. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

4. How can the example of Stephen in Acts 6:10 inspire you to stand firm in your faith amidst opposition?

5. What practical steps can you take to prepare for potential persecution or challenges to your faith, based on the teachings of Luke 21:15 and related scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 6:10
This verse describes how Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, spoke with wisdom that his adversaries could not resist, illustrating the fulfillment of Jesus' promise.

Matthew 10:19-20
Jesus similarly assures His disciples that the Spirit of the Father will speak through them when they face persecution.

1 Corinthians 2:4-5
Paul speaks of his preaching not being with persuasive words of human wisdom, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, aligning with the divine wisdom promised in Luke 21:15.

Exodus 4:12
God promises Moses that He will help him speak and teach him what to say, showing a consistent biblical theme of God empowering His messengers.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, who gives generously, connecting to the divine provision of wisdom in times of need.