May 31, 2025

Luke 17:21

There is no use saying, "Look! Here it is' or 'Look! There it is.' God's kingdom is here with you."

Jesus is speaking directly to the Pharisees and means that the Kingdom of God is within their grasp.

The Pharisees asked when the kingdom of God is coming but refused the answer. They emphasized the glorious vision of the Son of Man who will be "given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is everlasting, won't pass away, and His kingdom shall not be destroyed.

They're looking for a military leader to give independence to the Jews.

That will happen at Jesus second coming, but the Pharisees were part of His first arrival on earth. At the time depicted here, the kingdom of God is all around  in the healings Jesus performed, the way His disciples were empowered to cast out demons, in the way a person gave water to the thirsty and in Jesus example of humble service.

The Samaritan leper understood this. When he realized he was cleansed, he returned to Jesus and declared that Jesus healed him to the glory of God.

In response, this otherwise-rejected man became a permanent citizen of God's kingdom.

Jesus teaches His disciples how to recognize the fulfillment of God's kingdom at his second coming.

No one will be able to miss Him “coming with the clouds, every eye will see Him. Matthew describes it as similar to how “lighting comes from the east and flashes as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man”.

Lord Jesus, I pray when You return, You'll find us ready. Till that day may we live as strangers in this world, sharing the love of Christ in our speech and behavior. May we watch vigilantly for Your return and encourage each other continually that today could be the day. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.