In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back.
LUKE 17:31KJVWhat does Luke 17:31 mean?
Luke 17:31 warns that when a certain day comes, anyone on the housetop or out in the field should not go back for their belongings. The verse urges immediate action, not hesitating or returning for possessions when the time to flee arrives.
Jesus is speaking to His disciples about a future time of sudden crisis or judgment. He uses everyday examples—someone on a housetop or working in a field—to show how urgent the situation will be. The main idea is that when this moment comes, nothing should be more important than responding right away, even if it means leaving behind valuable things.
The Greek behind Luke 17:31
- ἐπὶ (epi): This word means "upon" or "on." Here, it describes someone physically on the housetop, a common place in ancient homes for work or rest.
- σκεῦος (skeuos): Translated as "stuff" or "belongings," this word refers to household goods or personal property. The verse highlights that even these important things should not delay someone’s escape.
- ἐπιστρέφω (epistrephō): Meaning "to return," this word is used for the person in the field, emphasizing not to turn back or reverse direction, stressing the urgency and seriousness of the warning.
Why Luke 17:31 matters
- Luke 17:31 clarifies that Jesus is not speaking about ordinary daily life, but about a moment of crisis where hesitation could be dangerous.
- The verse connects to the larger context, where Jesus describes the suddenness of the coming of the Son of Man and the need for readiness.
- This warning helps clear up the idea that material possessions or routines should take priority in moments of spiritual or physical urgency.