But Wait—There’s More:

But Wait—There’s More:
A Reflection on Luke 21:5–19

Introduction

On September 27, 1999, the Detroit Tigers played their final game at Tiger Stadium, defeating the Kansas City Royals 8–2. For most people, that day is unremarkable. But for a lifelong Tigers fan, it marks the end of an era. Ten years later, the stadium was completely demolished.
Driving through Detroit this last year, a friend pointed out where the flag now flies above the spot where the stadium once stood. Though the Tigers’ new ballpark is impressive, something about that old stadium makes me nostalgic. It reminds me that nothing—no matter how grand—lasts forever.
That truth brings with it a measure of anxiety. When we look around at our world—at the wars, unrest, and disasters—it is easy to feel uneasy about the future. Luke 21:5–19 meets us in that very space. Here, Jesus speaks of the destruction of something far more sacred than any sports arena: the Temple in Jerusalem.

Historical Context

This passage is part of the larger discourse Jesus gave on the Mount of Olives, often referred to as the Olivet Discourse. The disciples, marveling at the splendor of the Temple, remark on its noble stones and lavish offerings. Jesus responds,
“As for these things that you see, the days will come when there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down” (Luke 21:6, ESV).
The Temple to which Jesus refers is the Second Temple, which was magnificently renovated under Herod the Great beginning around 20 BCE. The structure’s foundation stones were massive, and its exterior shone with marble and gold. For Israel, it represented not merely an architectural wonder but the very dwelling place of God’s presence.
Yet, Jesus foretells its destruction. History confirms His prophecy: in 70 CE, Roman forces under Titus destroyed both Jerusalem and the Temple. This marked a theological and cultural rupture for God’s people. The visible symbol of divine presence was gone, compelling believers to rediscover that God’s presence is not confined to a building or ritual system but is manifest in faith and community.

Exegetical Analysis

The disciples’ immediate response is to ask, “Teacher, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when these things are about to take place?” (Luke 21:7). Like many of us, they desired certainty, a timeline, and control. But Jesus redirects their focus from prediction to preparation.
“See that you are not led astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and, ‘The time is at hand!’ Do not go after them” (Luke 21:8).
Rather than giving them eschatological specifics, Jesus provides ethical instruction: do not be deceived, and do not be terrified. The warnings that follow—wars, earthquakes, famines, and pestilences—could easily read like modern headlines.
“When you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified, for these things must first take place, but the end will not be at once” (Luke 21:9).
The command “do not be terrified” anchors this section. Jesus’ purpose is not to alarm but to steady. The mention of cosmic and political upheaval serves to remind His followers that none of these events occur outside God’s sovereignty.
As He says elsewhere, “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
This hermeneutical shift—from fear to faith—frames the entire discourse. Jesus is not describing chaos for chaos’s sake but inviting endurance in the midst of it.

Theological Reflection

Jesus continues, “Before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake. This will be your opportunity to bear witness” (Luke 21:12–13).
Persecution, He explains, is not merely suffering but opportunity. God transforms trials into testimonies. The promise follows:
“Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer, for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict” (Luke 21:14–15).
The emphasis here is on divine provision through the Holy Spirit. In moments of trial, believers are not left to their own eloquence or strength. God equips His people with both the words and the wisdom necessary to endure. The Apostle Peter later echoes this theme: “In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Pet 3:15).
Following Christ, Jesus warns, may even divide households: “You will be delivered up even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and some of you they will put to death. You will be hated by all for my name’s sake” (Luke 21:16–17).
This statement underscores the cost of discipleship. Jesus never promises comfort or popularity; He promises presence—His enduring presence through every circumstance.
Yet, the conclusion of this section is filled with grace: “But not a hair of your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your lives” (Luke 21:18–19).
Though believers may suffer physically, their ultimate security lies in Christ. As Paul affirms, “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come... will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom 8:38–39).
Endurance is not mere perseverance—it is faith sustained by grace. The believer’s confidence rests not in circumstances but in the constancy of God.

Contemporary Application

The purpose of Jesus’ words is pastoral as much as prophetic. They call the faithful to resilience, not resignation. In a world that often feels unsteady, Jesus’ assurance reminds us that our hope is not in what can be shaken but in the kingdom that cannot.
As the author of Hebrews writes, “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken” (Heb 12:28).
In an age when fear dominates headlines and anxiety drives decisions, the gospel offers an alternative way of living:
- We do not panic; we persevere.
- We do not despair; we depend on God.
- We do not cling to what fades; we trust what endures.

Conclusion

When everything feels uncertain, remember this refrain: But wait—there’s more.
Paul reminds believers, “What is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Cor 4:18).
Even when the world shakes, Christ remains steady. Even when all else crumbles, His kingdom stands firm. Nothing placed in God’s hands—no tear, no trial, no act of faith—is wasted.
So lift your head. Endure. Trust that your Redeemer is near. When your world feels as though it’s falling apart, remember: Christ remains. And that, dear friends, is more than enough.
Stay in the Word daily, it will save your life.