Luke 21:23

But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people.

Luke 21:23 (KJV)

Context

Luke 21:23 is part of the Olivet Discourse, where Jesus foretells the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem and speaks of the signs of the end times. In this verse, Jesus describes the tribulations that will occur during a period of great distress, specifically warning pregnant women and nursing mothers.

Meaning

Jesus expresses concern for pregnant women and those nursing babies during the difficult times to come. The phrase “woe unto them” emphasizes the seriousness of the situation they will face. The Greek word translated “distress” (anagkh) properly signifies “necessity” but here denotes afflictions and distress, a usage found in the Septuagint. The warning is not that pregnancy or nursing is sinful or a judgment in itself; rather, it expresses the miserable circumstances such women would face. Their heavy burdens would prevent them from making a speedy flight during the siege, or they would be obliged to stay and endure the miseries of the siege.

Jesus’ warning carries both literal and symbolic meanings. On one hand, it suggests the practical challenges that pregnant and nursing women will face during times of chaos and upheaval. On the other hand, it symbolizes the general hardships and suffering that will befall all people during the events leading up to the end times.

Biblical connections

The parallel passages in Matthew 24:19 and Mark 13:17 contain the same warning, confirming this is a consistent teaching of Jesus regarding the hardships of that time.

Application

Jesus states that there will be “great distress in the land.” This distress refers to the tumultuous and challenging circumstances that will arise, both globally and specifically in the land of Israel, preceding the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. This prophecy was fulfilled in AD 70 when the Roman army destroyed Jerusalem and the temple. Jesus also declares that there will be “wrath upon this people.” This refers to the judgment and punishment that the Jewish people would face as a consequence of their rejection of Jesus as the Messiah. The Jewish nation would suffer the consequences of their disobedience and rebellion against God.

While this verse has historical significance relating to the events surrounding the destruction of Jerusalem, there are also spiritual lessons for believers today. It serves as a reminder that in times of tribulation and difficulty, God is aware of the struggles we face. It also points to the importance of being spiritually prepared and seeking refuge in God’s grace and strength.

Reflection

Luke 21:23 warns of the hardships and distress that will befall people, particularly pregnant women and those nursing children, during times of great tribulation. It points to the historical fulfillment of the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, as well as conveying spiritual lessons about trusting in God during challenging times.