Luke 20:35

But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage:

Luke 20:35 (KJV)

Context

Jesus spoke these words in reply to the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection and tested Him with the account of a woman married successively to seven brothers under the levirate law. Their question assumed that life in the resurrection would simply continue earthly relationships. Jesus corrects that assumption by revealing the nature of the age to come.

Meaning

The phrase “accounted worthy” (Greek: kataksiothentes) shows that obtaining the resurrection life is a gift of God’s grace, not a human achievement. The “world” (Greek: aion) points to the age to come—eternal life and blessedness secured through the blood, sacrifice, and righteousness of the Messiah. The “resurrection from the dead” is the resurrection unto life, which only the dead in Christ will enjoy. Scripture affirms that all people will be raised, but to different outcomes: “they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation” (John 5:29 KJV), and “a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust” (Acts 24:15 KJV).

In that resurrection, those who are worthy will neither marry nor be given in marriage. This marks a profound difference between the present age and the future kingdom. Marriage, as an institution for companionship and procreation, will no longer be needed because the redeemed will be like the angels, immortal and no longer subject to death. The absence of marriage does not imply a lack of relationships or love; rather, believers will experience a deeper spiritual union with God and with one another, surpassing earthly marriage.

Biblical connections

Jesus’ teaching aligns with the promise of transformation for believers: they will be raised in glory and will transcend the limitations of earthly existence, including the need for procreation. The resurrection highlights the certainty of eternal life and the glorious state prepared for those who are accounted worthy through Christ.

Application

This verse invites us to contemplate the eternal nature of our faith and to prioritize our relationship with God in every aspect of life. It reassures us that our hope is not confined to this present world but looks forward to a transformed existence in God’s presence.

Reflection

Worthiness here is not earned merit but a gift of grace received through faith in Christ. As we await that resurrection, we are called to live in light of the age to come, holding earthly institutions loosely and seeking first the kingdom of God.