Meaning of Luke 21:28

In Luke 21:28, Jesus is instructing his disciples about the signs that will precede his second coming and the end of the age. He acknowledges that these signs will be accompanied by distress and upheaval in the world, even describing them as signs in the sun, moon, and stars, and on the earth, distress of nations in perplexity (Luke 21:25). However, in the midst of this tribulation, he offers a profound encouragement: "When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." This statement is not an invitation to a passive observation of suffering, but a call to a courageous and hopeful stance, rooted in the certainty of their ultimate deliverance and vindication. The "redemption" spoken of here encompasses not only their spiritual salvation but also the complete liberation from sin, suffering, and death, and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom.

Context and Background

This verse is part of Jesus' Olivet Discourse, delivered on the Mount of Olives as his disciples inquired about the timing of the temple's destruction and the signs of the end of the age (Matthew 24:3, Mark 13:3-4, Luke 21:7). Jesus foretells significant events, including the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple in 70 CE, as well as more eschatological events pertaining to his return. Luke 21:20-24 specifically describes the siege and destruction of Jerusalem, a traumatic event for the Jewish people. The discourse then broadens to encompass a cosmic and universal scope, culminating in the "Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory" (Luke 21:27). Within this framework, verse 28 serves as a pivot, shifting from the description of tribulation to the assurance of imminent salvation for the faithful.

Key Themes and Messages

• Hope Amidst Tribulation: The central message is that even in the face of extreme distress and terrifying events, believers are to maintain hope. The suffering is not the end, but a prelude to a greater reality.
• Imminence of Redemption: Jesus emphasizes that these signs are indicators that their ultimate deliverance is not distant but drawing near. This fosters a sense of urgency and preparedness.
• Active Stance of Faith: "Stand up and lift up your heads" is an active posture. It signifies courage, dignity, and unashamed anticipation, rather than cowering in fear. It implies a conscious choice to remain steadfast and look forward.
• Completeness of Redemption: The term "redemption" (Greek: apolutrosis) signifies a complete release from bondage, a full payment of a debt, and a restoration to freedom and wholeness. This is the ultimate hope for believers.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, Luke 21:28 serves as a powerful reminder to maintain a hopeful perspective in difficult times. It encourages spiritual resilience, urging us not to be overwhelmed by the world's troubles but to see them as potential indicators of Christ's return. The call to "stand up and lift up your heads" translates to maintaining faith, living righteously, and actively participating in God's kingdom, even when facing persecution or societal decay. It means looking beyond present circumstances to the eternal reality that awaits us.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative of God's plan of salvation. It echoes Old Testament prophecies of a coming Messiah who would bring redemption and establish an everlasting kingdom. It also aligns with the New Testament's overarching theme of Christ's atoning sacrifice, his promised return, and the final consummation of all things in God's eternal reign. The redemption foreshadowed here is the culmination of God's covenantal faithfulness throughout history.

Analogies

• A Pregnant Woman: Just as labor pains intensify as the time of childbirth nears, so too will the signs Jesus describes intensify as the time of ultimate redemption approaches. The pains are not the end, but a sign that new life is about to emerge.
• A Watchman on Duty: A watchman, upon seeing the approaching dawn after a long night, would lift his head and stand alert, knowing his duty was nearing completion and a new day was about to begin.
• A Soldier Preparing for Victory: In the midst of battle, a soldier who knows that reinforcements are arriving and victory is imminent will stand firm, lift their head, and fight with renewed vigor, rather than despairing.

Relation to Other Verses

• Romans 8:18-25: This passage speaks of the present sufferings being not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed in us, and the whole creation groaning, waiting for adoption, that is, the redemption of our bodies. This highlights the theme of future redemption and the hope that sustains believers through present hardship.
• 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17: This describes the Lord's descent from heaven with a loud command, and the dead in Christ rising first, followed by believers who are alive, all being caught up together to meet the Lord in the air, assuring them of being with the Lord forever. This reinforces the idea of an imminent and glorious return.
• Philippians 3:20-21: This verse states that "our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself." This connects the present earthly existence with a future, heavenly transformation and redemption.
• Revelation 22:12, 20: Jesus himself declares, "Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to give everyone according to what he has done." And the response of the faithful is, "Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!" This echoes the anticipation and certainty of his return and the reward for faithfulness.