Luke 17

When Will the Kingdom of God Come?

Jesus taught His disciples about the Second Coming. He did not tell them the exact date of His coming. Instead He spoke to them about preparing for that day, which will take many people by surprise. The teachings found in Luke 17, which include faith, obedience, service, gratitude, and avoiding wickedness, are important for those who are striving to be ready for the coming of Christ. As you read this chapter, consider how each of these teachings might prepare and protect you in the last days.

Understanding the Scriptures

Luke 17

Offences (v. 1)Actions that cause people to stumble or sin

Millstone (v. 2)Large round stone used to grind grain

Sup (v. 8)Eat

Gird (v. 8)Prepare (refers to tying up one’s long robes around the waist to get ready to work)

Noe (vv. 26, 27)Noah

Thither (v. 37)There

Luke 17:11–19—Only One of the Ten Healed Lepers Showed Gratitude to Jesus

President Spencer W. Kimball wrote: “Ingratitude is a distressing sin which kindles the Lord’s anger. (See D&C 59:21.) … When the Savior healed the ten lepers and only one thanked him, he pointed out the nine ingrates as a lesson to all when he said, ‘Were there not ten cleansed?’ (Luke 17:17.) Adults as well as youth are often guilty, being disobedient and unthankful to their Heavenly Father who gives them all. Many fail to show their gratitude through service, through family prayers, through the payment of their tithes, and in numerous other ways God has a right to expect” (The Miracle of Forgiveness, 58–59).

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity B and one of the other two activities (A or C) as you study Luke 17.

1. Compare a Similar Scripture

   Read Luke 17:5–10 and Mosiah 2:18–22.

   1. What similarities do you see in these verses?

   2. What is the main message being taught by the phrase “unprofitable servants”?

2. Look Closer

   Re-read the story of the healing of the ten lepers in Luke 17:11–19.

   1. What blessing came to all ten lepers? (see v. 14).

   2. What additional blessing came to the leper who expressed gratitude? (see v. 19).

   3. What do you think is significant about the difference between being healed and being whole?

   4. The leper who gave thanks was a Samaritan. With what you know about Samaritans, why do you think that is an important part of the story?

3. The Second Coming

   Read Luke 17:22–33 and think about what the world will be like at the Second Coming and what the people will be doing then. Write down the most important advice you feel is given in those verses and tell why you think people today need that advice.