Topical Encyclopedia The term "The Sons of This Age" is a biblical phrase that appears in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Luke. It is used by Jesus to describe those who are primarily concerned with worldly matters and the present life, in contrast to "the sons of the resurrection" or "the sons of light," who are focused on eternal matters and the kingdom of God.Biblical Reference: The primary reference to "The Sons of This Age" is found in Luke 20:34-36. In this passage, Jesus is responding to a question posed by the Sadducees regarding the resurrection and marriage: "Jesus answered, 'The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage. But those who are considered worthy to share in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage. In fact, they can no longer die, because they are like the angels. And they are sons of God, since they are sons of the resurrection.'" (Luke 20:34-36) Context and Interpretation: In the context of Luke 20, the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection, presented Jesus with a hypothetical scenario about a woman who married seven brothers in succession, each dying without leaving children. They questioned whose wife she would be in the resurrection. Jesus' response highlights the distinction between the temporal concerns of this world and the eternal realities of the next. "The Sons of This Age" refers to those who live according to the customs and practices of the current world system, which includes marriage and procreation as part of the natural order. This phrase underscores the temporal nature of earthly life and its institutions, which are bound by time and mortality. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, "The Sons of This Age" are contrasted with those who are part of the coming age, the age of the resurrection. This distinction emphasizes the Christian belief in the resurrection of the dead and the transformation that accompanies entry into eternal life. The "sons of the resurrection" are those who have been deemed worthy to partake in the life to come, where earthly institutions like marriage are no longer necessary. The passage also reflects the broader biblical theme of two contrasting kingdoms: the kingdom of this world and the kingdom of God. "The Sons of This Age" are often preoccupied with the material and transient, while the followers of Christ are called to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Practical Implications: For believers, the concept of "The Sons of This Age" serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual over temporal concerns. It calls Christians to live with an eternal perspective, focusing on their identity as children of God and heirs of the resurrection. This perspective encourages a life of faith, hope, and love, grounded in the promises of God and the reality of the resurrection. In summary, "The Sons of This Age" is a term that encapsulates the temporal focus of those who live according to the present world system, in contrast to those who live with the hope and assurance of the resurrection and eternal life in the kingdom of God. |