And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them.
LUKE 21:8KJVWhat does Luke 21:8 mean?
Luke 21:8 records Jesus warning his listeners not to be misled by people who claim to represent him or say that the end is near. Jesus tells them not to follow such people, even if they come using his name or claim special authority.
In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his disciples as they ask about the future and the signs of the end times. He cautions them that many will come claiming to be him or to have inside knowledge about the end, but these are not to be trusted. The verse stresses being alert and careful, rather than easily swayed by dramatic claims or false leaders.
The Greek behind Luke 21:8
- The word for "deceived" is πλανηθῆτε (planēthēte, from πλανάω/planáō), which means to be led astray or misled. Jesus is warning about being pulled off course, not just making a simple mistake.
- The phrase "in my name" uses ἐπὶ τῷ ὀνόματί μου (epi tō onomati mou), which means coming with Jesus’ authority or claiming to represent him. This highlights that some deceivers will appear very convincing, not just obvious frauds.
- "The time draweth near" uses ὁ καιρὸς ἤγγικεν (ho kairos ēngiken), with καιρός (kairos) meaning a significant or appointed time, not just any moment. The warning is about people claiming that the decisive moment has arrived, urging listeners not to be swept up by such announcements.
Why Luke 21:8 matters
- Luke 21:8 helps clear up the idea that dramatic claims about the end times, even from people who seem religious or authoritative, should not be taken at face value.
- The verse emphasizes personal vigilance and discernment, showing that even sincere followers can be at risk of being misled if they are not careful.
- This warning sets the tone for the rest of Jesus’ teaching in Luke 21, where he describes real signs to watch for, making it clear that not every claim of “the end” is genuine.