Luke 17:23 (KJV)

What does Luke 17:23 mean?

Luke 17:23 warns that people will urge others to look for the coming of God's kingdom in specific places, saying “See here” or “see there,” but Jesus tells his listeners not to chase after these claims or follow those people. The verse cautions against being misled by those who claim to have special knowledge about where or when God’s kingdom will appear.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples as part of a larger conversation about the coming of the kingdom of God. He is preparing them for a time when rumors and false reports about his return or the arrival of God’s kingdom will spread. Jesus emphasizes that they should not be distracted or deceived by people who claim to know secret locations or signs, but instead remain steady and discerning.

The Greek behind Luke 17:23

• “See” (ἰδού, idou) is an attention-grabbing word, like saying “look!” or “behold!” in English. It signals urgency or excitement, which fits the idea of people trying to stir up a reaction or direct attention to supposed signs.
• “Go not after them” (μὴ ἀπέλθητε, mē apelthēte) uses a strong negative, making it clear that Jesus is instructing his followers not to pursue or chase after those making these claims. The Greek here carries the sense of actively resisting the urge to follow.
• “Nor follow them” (μηδὲ διώξητε, mēde diōxēte) uses a word for “follow” that can also mean “pursue” or “run after,” emphasizing not just passive avoidance but a deliberate choice not to get caught up in the excitement or rumors.

Why Luke 17:23 matters

• Luke 17:23 clears up the idea that the coming of God’s kingdom will be a secret event that only a few can find if they follow the right person; Jesus says not to believe those claims.
• The verse highlights Jesus’ warning about false leaders or movements that try to attract followers by claiming special insight into God’s plans.
• This teaching helps set the stage for the following verses, where Jesus explains that his coming will be unmistakable and visible to all, not hidden or secret.