Luke 21

“The Time Draweth Nigh”

Near the end of His ministry, the Savior revealed what would happen before His Second Coming. We often call these events the signs of the times. As you read Luke 21, think about how blessed you are to live in the days when some of those prophesied signs are coming to pass. Also ponder how privileged you are to be led by a living prophet who can help you know and understand the signs.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Luke 21

Luke 21:1–4—Mark 12:41–44

Luke 21:5–38—Matthew 24:1–42; Mark 13; Joseph Smith—Matthew

Understanding the Scriptures

Luke 21

Mites (v. 2)Small coins of very little value

Abundance (v. 4)Wealth

Penury (v. 4)Poverty

Pestilences (v. 11)Plagues

Give you a mouth (v. 15)Give you inspiration so you know what to say

Compassed (v. 20)Surrounded

Them that give suck (v. 23)Mothers who are nursing children

Perplexity (v. 25)Confusion

Nigh (vv. 30–31)Near

Surfeiting (v. 34)Excesses from drinking

Luke 21:5–38—Important Joseph Smith Translation Helps

Pay close attention to the Joseph Smith Translation as you study this chapter. You can also find many helps by referring to the “Understanding the Scriptures” section for Matthew 24 (p. 33). Joseph Smith also made many inspired changes for Matthew 24 (see Joseph Smith—Matthew), and you will find many helps there.

Luke 21:24—“The Times of the Gentiles”

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith, then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, explained: “The times of the Gentiles commenced shortly after the death of our Redeemer. The Jews soon rejected the Gospel and it was then taken to the Gentiles. The times of the Gentiles have continued from that time until now” (Church History and Modern Revelation, 1:179).

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Luke 21.

1. “Signs of the Times”

   In Luke 21:5–36 Jesus answered the disciples’ questions concerning the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem and the events that would precede that destruction. This passage not only tells of what would happen before the temple was destroyed, but also what would happen before the Lord returned in glory.

   As you read this account, describe the signs given in Luke 21:8, 11–12, 26–27.

2. Make a Preparation Checklist

   The Second Coming will be “great and dreadful” (Malachi 4:5) for the wicked, but “if ye are prepared ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30). Read Luke 21:32–38 and list at least seven ways you can prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.