Luke 21: The Widow’s Offering and the Signs of the End Times – A Coptic Orthodox Commentary

Executive Summary ✨

This chapter of Luke presents us with two powerful scenes: the widow’s offering, a testament to sacrificial love and unwavering faith in God’s providence, and Jesus’ discourse on the signs that will precede the destruction of the Temple and the ultimate coming of the Son of Man. We, as Coptic Orthodox Christians, find in these passages not just historical accounts but profound spiritual lessons. The widow challenges us to examine the sincerity of our own offerings, while the Lord’s warnings about wars, persecutions, and false prophets serve as a constant call to vigilance and perseverance in our faith. Let us delve into the depths of Luke 21, gleaning wisdom and guidance for our journey towards salvation, amidst *end times* and challenging moments. The **end times** are not just about destruction; it’s about readiness for Christ’s return.

Luke 21, a pivotal chapter in the Gospel, offers profound insights into the nature of true devotion and a sobering look at the future. From the humble offering of a poor widow to the dramatic pronouncements concerning the destruction of the Temple and the coming of the Son of Man, the chapter challenges us to examine our hearts and prepare for the ultimate encounter with our Lord. We will explore these verses through the lens of Coptic Orthodox theology, drawing upon the wisdom of the Church Fathers and the rich tapestry of our spiritual tradition, always mindful of living faithfully within *end times*.

Commentary Sections 📖

Luke 21:1-4 – The Widow’s Offering

Luke 21:1-4 (KJV): And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.

Luke 21:1-4 (NKJV): Then He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. So He said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all; for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of her poverty has put in all the livelihood that she had.”

This opening scene is a stark contrast between outward appearance and inward reality. The rich men, motivated perhaps by vanity or a desire for recognition, cast in their gifts from their abundance. The widow, on the other hand, with nothing to gain in terms of worldly praise, offers everything she has: two *lepta*, the smallest coins available. Her act is a radical expression of faith, demonstrating a complete trust in God’s provision. This scene underscores the Coptic Orthodox emphasis on the *kenosis* (self-emptying) of Christ and the call to emulate this in our own lives. St. Athanasius says, “Αὐτὸς γὰρ ἐπτώχευσε πλούσιος ὤν, ἵνα ἡμεῖς τῇ ἐκείνου πτωχείᾳ πλουτήσωμεν” (Autos gar eptocheuse plousios ōn, hina hēmeis tē ekeinou ptōcheia ploutēsōmen – “For He became poor, being rich, so that by His poverty we might become rich.” – Athanasius, *De Incarnatione*, 8). It calls us to question our motives when we give; are we giving out of abundance, or are we giving sacrificially, trusting in God’s provision? We must never underestimate the significance of the smallest act done with sincere love for God. Consider exploring website solutions that reflect this spirit of generosity and service.

Spiritual Application: Let us examine our own hearts. Are we giving out of abundance, seeking praise, or are we giving sacrificially, trusting in God’s provision? True generosity comes from a place of love and faith.

Luke 21:5-6 – The Prediction of the Temple’s Destruction

Luke 21:5-6 (KJV): And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and gifts, he said, As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.

Luke 21:5-6 (NKJV): Then, as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and donations, He said, “These things which you see—the days will come in which not one stone shall be left upon another that shall not be thrown down.”

The disciples, marveling at the beauty and grandeur of the Temple, are confronted with a shocking prophecy: utter destruction. This prophecy highlights the transience of earthly things and the ultimate futility of placing our hope in material possessions. The Temple, a symbol of God’s presence and the center of Jewish religious life, will be reduced to rubble. This serves as a powerful reminder that only God’s Kingdom is eternal. This prophecy was fulfilled in AD 70 when the Romans, under Titus, destroyed Jerusalem and the Temple. St. Cyril of Alexandria observes, “τὰ πάντα φθαρτὰ καὶ εὐμετάβολα” (ta panta phtharta kai eumetabola – “all things are corruptible and changeable” – Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Luke*, Fragment 209). We must be careful not to become attached to temporal things, but rather fix our eyes on the eternal realities of God’s Kingdom. Consider how you can apply this message to your digital presence – ensuring your online platforms reflect this eternal focus.

Spiritual Application: Reflect on what you are placing your hope in. Are you focused on earthly treasures, or on the eternal Kingdom of God?

Luke 21:7-19 – Signs and Persecutions

Luke 21:7-19 (KJV): And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass? 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. But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven. But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake. And it shall turn to you for a testimony. Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake. But there shall not an hair of your head perish. In your patience possess ye your souls.

Luke 21:7-19 (NKJV): So they asked Him, saying, “Teacher, but when will these things be? And what sign will there be when these things are about to take place?” And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them. But when you hear of wars and commotions, do not be terrified; for these things must come to pass first, but the end will not come immediately.” Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven. But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake. But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony. Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist. You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and some of you they will put to death. And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But not a hair of your head shall be lost. By your patience possess your souls.”

Here, the Lord outlines the signs that will precede the destruction of Jerusalem and, by extension, the *end times*. These signs include false messiahs, wars, famines, pestilences, earthquakes, and persecutions. These are not merely predictions of future events but also warnings to be vigilant and discerning. The Lord emphasizes that these events are “birth pangs” (Matthew 24:8), signifying the beginning of the end but not the immediate end itself. He also reassures his disciples that they will be given the wisdom and strength to endure persecution, promising that “not a hair of your head shall be lost.” This does not necessarily mean physical preservation but rather spiritual safety and ultimate victory in Christ. St. Macarius the Great says, “Δεῖ γὰρ τὸν ἄνθρωπον ἔχειν τὴν πίστιν, καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην, καὶ τὴν ἐλπίδα” (Dei gar ton anthrōpon echein tēn pistin, kai tēn agapēn, kai tēn elpida – “For man must have faith, and love, and hope” – Macarius the Great, *Homilies*, 15.21). These virtues are essential to navigating the trials of this world and remaining steadfast in our faith. We must remain steadfast in our faith despite the trials and tribulations that may come our way.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate faith, love, and hope. Do not be easily deceived by false teachings. Be prepared for persecution and trust in God’s protection.

Luke 21:20-24 – The Desolation of Jerusalem

Luke 21:20-24 (KJV): And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people. And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.

Luke 21:20-24 (NKJV): “But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those who are in the midst of her depart, and let not those who are in the country enter her. For these are the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! For there will be great distress in the land and wrath upon this people. And they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led away captive into all nations. And Jerusalem will be trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

Jesus describes the siege and destruction of Jerusalem, a cataclysmic event that foreshadows the ultimate judgment. The “abomination of desolation” (Matthew 24:15) refers to the Roman armies surrounding the city, signaling its impending doom. The call to flee is a call to spiritual discernment, to recognize the signs of the times and to act accordingly. The destruction of Jerusalem serves as a warning against rejecting God’s Messiah and a reminder of the consequences of sin. The phrase “Jerusalem will be trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled” refers to a period of Gentile dominion over Jerusalem, which will continue until God’s plan for the Gentiles is complete. This can be interpreted as a time when the Gentiles will have the opportunity to embrace the Gospel. Let us contemplate this passage, and see how we can act accordingly.

Spiritual Application: Be watchful and discerning. Recognize the signs of the times and heed the call to repentance and faith.

Luke 21:25-28 – The Coming of the Son of Man

Luke 21:25-28 (KJV): And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

Luke 21:25-28 (NKJV): “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.”

This passage describes the cosmic upheavals that will accompany the coming of the Son of Man. These signs are not meant to induce fear but to inspire hope in the faithful. The “distress of nations, with perplexity” and “men’s hearts failing them for fear” indicate the overwhelming nature of these events. However, the Lord encourages his followers to “look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” This is a call to spiritual alertness and unwavering hope in the face of tribulation. It speaks of the ultimate triumph of God’s Kingdom and the vindication of the righteous. St. Isaac the Syrian says, “Χρὴ οὖν ἡμᾶς προσδοκᾶν τὸν Κύριον” (Chrē oun hēmas prosdokan ton Kyrion – “Therefore, we must await the Lord” – Isaac the Syrian, *Ascetic Homilies*, 81). Our anticipation should not be one of fear, but of joyful expectation for the coming of our Savior. Be prepared for the coming of the Son of Man, and what that may entail.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate hope and anticipation for the coming of the Lord. Do not be overwhelmed by fear, but rather look forward to your redemption.

Luke 21:29-33 – The Parable of the Fig Tree

Luke 21:29-33 (KJV): And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.

Luke 21:29-33 (NKJV): Then He spoke to them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. When they see them budding, you know for yourselves that summer is now near. So you likewise, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

The parable of the fig tree illustrates the importance of recognizing the signs of the times. Just as the budding of the fig tree indicates the approach of summer, so too should the unfolding of these events signal the nearness of God’s Kingdom. The phrase “this generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled” has been interpreted in various ways. Some believe it refers to the generation that witnessed Jesus’ ministry, while others see it as referring to the generation that will witness the signs preceding the Second Coming. Regardless of the specific interpretation, the emphasis is on the certainty of the fulfillment of God’s promises. The concluding statement, “Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away,” underscores the eternal and immutable nature of God’s Word. It is the anchor for our souls amidst the storms of life. Remember that His words will not pass away; let us keep His word in our heart.

Spiritual Application: Learn to recognize the signs of the times and be alert to the nearness of God’s Kingdom. Trust in the unchanging truth of God’s Word.

Luke 21:34-36 – Exhortation to Watchfulness

Luke 21:34-36 (KJV): And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

Luke 21:34-36 (NKJV): “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day come on you unexpectedly. For as a snare it will come on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

The chapter concludes with a call to watchfulness and prayer. The Lord warns against being weighed down by “surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life,” which can cloud our judgment and make us unprepared for His coming. He urges us to “watch ye therefore, and pray always,” that we may be found worthy to “escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” This is a call to live a life of sobriety, vigilance, and constant communion with God. This is our call, a call to action. St. Antony the Great says, “Ἀεὶ προσεύχεσθε” (Aei proseuchesthe – “Pray without ceasing” – Antony the Great, *Letters*, 1). Prayer is not just a ritual but a constant orientation of our hearts towards God, seeking His guidance and strength. Let our hearts always be oriented towards God.

Spiritual Application: Live a life of sobriety, vigilance, and prayer. Keep your heart focused on God and be prepared for His coming.

Subtopic: Navigating the End Times Through Coptic Orthodoxy 🕊️

The Coptic Orthodox Church, with its rich history and unwavering commitment to the teachings of the Apostles, offers a unique perspective on navigating the *end times*. Our tradition emphasizes both the importance of discerning the signs of the times and the need for unwavering faith and perseverance. Here are some key reflections:

• The Importance of Tradition: The Coptic Orthodox Church safeguards the Apostolic Tradition, providing a solid foundation for understanding Scripture and resisting false teachings.
• The Power of Prayer and Fasting: Through prayer and fasting, we cultivate spiritual discernment and strengthen our connection with God, enabling us to navigate the challenges of the *end times*.
• The Value of Community: The Church provides a supportive community where we can encourage one another, share our burdens, and grow in faith together.
• The Call to Holiness: Living a life of holiness, marked by repentance, forgiveness, and love, is essential for preparing ourselves for the coming of the Lord.
• The Assurance of God’s Grace: Despite the trials and tribulations of the *end times*, we can be assured of God’s grace and protection, which will sustain us to the end.
• The Hope of Eternal Life: Our ultimate hope is in the promise of eternal life with Christ, which motivates us to persevere in faith and to live lives that are pleasing to Him.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about Luke 21 and its relevance to modern life:

• Q: How can we discern the signs of the times without being overcome by fear?

  A: By grounding ourselves in Scripture, the teachings of the Church Fathers, and the sacraments of the Church. Prayer and a life of virtue help us to see clearly and to trust in God’s providence, even in the midst of chaos.

• Q: What is the Coptic Orthodox understanding of the “end times”?

  A: The Coptic Orthodox Church understands the *end times* as a period marked by increasing turmoil and tribulation, culminating in the Second Coming of Christ and the final judgment. It emphasizes the need for vigilance, repentance, and unwavering faith.

• Q: How can we apply the teachings of Luke 21 to our daily lives?

  A: By living a life of sobriety, vigilance, and prayer. By prioritizing spiritual values over material possessions. By serving others with love and compassion. And by remaining steadfast in our faith, even in the face of adversity.

• Q: What is the significance of the widow’s offering in the context of the *end times*?

  A: The widow’s offering reminds us that true devotion is not measured by the size of our gifts, but by the sincerity of our hearts. In the *end times*, when resources may be scarce and faith may be tested, sacrificial love and unwavering trust in God will be more important than ever.

Conclusion ✨

Luke 21 presents a challenging yet hopeful message for believers today. The widow’s offering teaches us the importance of sacrificial giving, while the prophecies about the destruction of the Temple and the signs of the *end times* remind us of the transience of earthly things and the urgency of preparing for the coming of the Lord. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we are called to live lives of sobriety, vigilance, and prayer, grounded in the teachings of the Church and sustained by the grace of God. By focusing on eternal values and serving others with love and compassion, we can navigate the challenges of the *end times* with unwavering faith and hope. Let us all be vigilant and prayerful during these **end times**. Let us strive to live lives that are pleasing to God, so that we may be found worthy to stand before the Son of Man at His coming.

Tags

Luke 21, Widow’s Offering, End Times, Coptic Orthodox, Prophecy, Second Coming, Temple Destruction, Signs of the Times, Persecution, Watchfulness

Meta Description

Explore Luke 21 through a Coptic Orthodox lens: the widow’s offering, signs of the *end times*, and preparing for Christ’s return. A verse-by-verse commentary.