Luke 21:17 (KJV)

What does Luke 21:17 mean?

Luke 21:17 means that followers of Jesus will be disliked or rejected by many people specifically because of their association with him. Jesus is warning his listeners that being connected to him will bring them into conflict with others.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples about the difficulties they will face for being his followers. He is preparing them for opposition and even hatred from others, not because of anything they have done wrong, but simply because they identify with him. This statement is part of a larger conversation where Jesus describes the challenges and persecutions his followers can expect.

The Greek behind Luke 21:17

• μισέω (miseō, "hated"): This word means to be deeply disliked or detested. The Greek here carries a strong sense of hostility, not just casual dislike, emphasizing the seriousness of the opposition Jesus’ followers would face.
• διά (dia, "for"): This preposition means "because of" or "on account of." It highlights that the reason for the hatred is directly tied to Jesus’ name, not personal faults or actions.
• ὄνομα (onoma, "name"): In Greek, "name" often represents a person’s identity or authority. Here, it means that the hatred comes because of allegiance to Jesus himself, not just the use of his literal name.

Why Luke 21:17 matters

• Luke 21:17 clarifies that the rejection Jesus’ followers experience is not random or due to personal failings, but specifically because of their connection to him.
• This verse connects to the broader theme in Luke 21, where Jesus prepares his disciples for trials and encourages them to remain faithful despite opposition.
• Understanding this helps readers see that hardship for faith is something Jesus openly acknowledged and prepared his followers to face, rather than something unexpected or shameful.