Luke 16:16

The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it.

Luke 16:16 (KJV)

Context

Luke 16:16 sits within a larger section of Luke’s Gospel that includes the Parable of the Unjust Steward (Luke 16:1-13). That parable teaches the wise use of worldly wealth, and it closes with Jesus making several statements about the kingdom of God. This verse is one of those statements, and it marks a clear turning point in redemptive history.

When Jesus says “the law and the prophets were until John,” He refers to the Old Testament Scriptures—the Law (Torah) and the Prophets—which were the only revelation God had given His people until the time of John the Baptist. John stands as the last prophet of the old era and the bridge to the new. His ministry ended the age of promise and prepared the way for the Messiah.

Meaning

Jesus then declares, “since that time the kingdom of God is preached.” The Greek verb translated “is preached” (euangelizetai) means “to announce good news,” so the kingdom is not merely discussed but proclaimed as glad tidings. The kingdom of God refers to God’s reign and rule, first in the hearts of those who believe, and ultimately in the future establishment of His eternal kingdom.

The final phrase, “and every man presseth into it,” has been understood in different ways. Some translations render it as “everyone is strongly urged to enter it,” while others read “everyone forces his way into it.” The Greek expression is genuinely challenging. One interpretation, associated with commentators like Jonathan Edwards, sees it as the eager, earnest response of people who flocked to John and Jesus with zeal. Another view warns against those who try to seize the kingdom by their own effort or violence. Both readings agree that the response to the kingdom is vigorous and intentional, not passive.

Biblical connections

The parallel in Matthew 11:12-13 reinforces the same transition and the forceful response to the kingdom. Luke 16:17 immediately follows, where Jesus affirms that it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one tittle of the law to fail, showing that the law is not abolished but fulfilled.

Application

This verse reminds us that Jesus’ arrival signalled a decisive shift in God’s redemptive plan. The law and the prophets served their purpose, preparing the way for Christ. With Jesus, the focus became the proclamation of the kingdom, and all are invited to enter. Entering the kingdom requires an active and intentional pursuit of God and His righteousness—not a casual or half-hearted effort, but wholehearted devotion.