Luke 21

Luke 21:1

Ascending up to Jerusalem. The ascent begins at Jericho, and about 3,000 feet has to be climbed before the city is reached. The account of the royal entrance into Jerusalem is given in Matthew 21:1-16 Mr 11:1-11 John 12:12-19. See the notes on Matthew.

Luke 21:10

At the descent of the mount of Olives. Where the city and temple burst into view.

Luke 21:14

He beheld the city, and wept over it. This lament over the wicked city is given only by Luke (Lu 19:41-44). In that moment when the multitude is shouting his praises, his heart is breaking over the woes of the city that he knew would slay him. Only in one other place are we told that Jesus wept (John 11:35), each time over human sorrow.

Luke 21:15

If thou hadst known . . . in this thy day. The day of opportunity and mercy. But their eyes were blinded by unbelief. The things [which belong] unto thy peace. The acceptance of Christ would have prevented the rebellion against Rome, the destruction of the city, and would have secured heavenly as well as earthly peace.

Luke 21:16

Thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee. The Romans threw a wall around the city outside of the walls of defense in order to hem in all the population and to starve them out.

Luke 21:17

Shall not leave in thee one stone upon another. The city was utterly destroyed. See notes on Matthew 24:2,6,21,34. Because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation. When Christ came to save them from their awful fate.

Luke 21:18

Began to cast out them that sold. An act of kingly authority. See notes on Matthew 21:12-15 Mr 11:18-19.

Luke 21:21

For all the people were very attentive to hear him. His popularity with the people made it difficult for his enemies to carry out their purposes.

Luke 21:23

A Day of Conflict SUMMARY OF LUKE 20: Christ’s Authority Called For. The Baptism of John. The Parable of the Vineyard. On Paying Tribute to Caesar. The Sadducees and the Resurrection. Christ the Lord and Son of David. The Hypocrisy of the Scribes. In the temple. See notes on Matthew 21:23-27. Compare Mr 11:27-33.

Luke 21:31

A certain man planted a vineyard. This parable is also in Matthew 21:33-46 Mr 12:1-12. See notes on Matthew.