Luke 20:34 WEB

"Jesus said to them, “The children of this age marry and are given in marriage."

What Does Luke 20:34 Mean?

In Luke 20:34, Jesus highlights the reality of human relationships in this world by stating, "The children of this age marry and are given in marriage." This verse primarily speaks to the normalcy and significance of marriage in earthly life. Jesus contrasts the present life, where marriage is a key social institution, with the eternal life He is about to describe, where such institutions differ. His statement suggests that while marriage is part of human existence now, it will not hold the same importance or function in the age to come.

The phrase "children of this age" refers to those living in the current earthly realm, indicating a temporary state of existence. The use of “marry and are given in marriage” acknowledges the traditional practices surrounding marriage, emphasizing both the act of choosing a spouse and the societal customs involved. This shows that Jesus is not dismissing marriage but affirming its place in human culture, highlighting its importance within the context of life on earth.

Contextually, this verse is part of a larger discourse where Jesus is responding to the Sadducees, who questioned Him about the resurrection and marriage. They were trying to trap Him with a hypothetical scenario about a woman who married seven brothers in succession. By stating that the children of this age marry, Jesus sets the stage for explaining that the resurrection life is fundamentally different and transcends earthly customs. Thus, this verse serves to clarify the misunderstanding the Sadducees had regarding the resurrection and the nature of life after death.

A common misconception is that Jesus was belittling marriage or family structures. However, that is not the case. Instead, He is emphasizing that while these relationships are vital in our current existence, the resurrection life introduces a new reality where such institutions will not be necessary. This highlights the transformative nature of eternal life, encouraging believers to focus on spiritual relationships and the eternal kingdom rather than solely on earthly ties.

Practical Application

Understanding Luke 20:34 can greatly influence how we view marriage and relationships in our lives today. This verse reminds us that while marriage is an important and fulfilling part of life, it is ultimately temporary. As Christians, we are called to prioritize our spiritual lives and our relationship with God above all else, including our earthly bonds. We can apply this understanding by ensuring that our marriages reflect Christ’s love and serve as a testament to His kingdom.

For example, when faced with challenges in marriage, couples can remember that their relationship is part of a bigger picture. They can lean on their faith to seek solutions rather than letting earthly struggles overshadow their commitment. In situations where a family member may prioritize career or other pursuits over relationships, this verse can remind them of the importance of nurturing connections that reflect God’s love and grace.

To actively live out the teachings of Luke 20:34, couples and families can take actionable steps such as devoting time to prayer together, participating in community activities that promote family values, or even attending workshops focused on strengthening relationships. This dedication to growth and support leads to healthier marriages that honor God and serve as examples to others.

Finally, it can be beneficial to engage in personal reflection. Consider questions like: How does my relationship with God shape my understanding of marriage? In what ways can I prioritize my spiritual life over societal expectations of marriage? By reflecting on these questions, we can align our lives more closely with the teachings of Christ and find deeper fulfillment in both our earthly and spiritual relationships.

Historical Context

Luke was written by the physician Luke, a companion of Paul who aimed to provide an orderly account of the life and teachings of Jesus. This verse appears in a section where Jesus is confronted by the Sadducees, who deny the resurrection. By addressing their questions about marriage in the afterlife, Jesus reveals deeper truths about eternal life and the nature of relationships beyond earthly existence.

Historical Background

Luke's Gospel was likely written in the late first century, around A.D. 70-90. It targets a diverse audience, emphasizing compassion and the inclusivity of Jesus’s message. Understanding the historical context helps readers appreciate the significance of Jesus's teachings within the cultural norms of His time.

Reflection Questions

Common Questions

What does 'children of this age' mean?

'Children of this age' refers to those living in the present world, focusing on the earthly experience and its customs. Jesus uses this term to draw a distinction between the temporal nature of life now and the eternal life that follows the resurrection.

Why did Jesus mention marriage in this context?

Jesus mentioned marriage to illustrate the differences between earthly life and eternal life. By addressing marriage, He acknowledges its importance while also setting the stage for explaining that such institutions will not exist in the same way in the resurrection.

Does this verse mean marriage is unimportant?

No, Jesus is not saying that marriage is unimportant. Rather, He is emphasizing that while marriage is a significant part of human life, it is temporary and will not hold the same relevance in the eternal life to come, which focuses on spiritual relationships.

How should this verse influence my view of relationships?

This verse encourages believers to prioritize their spiritual lives and relationships with God above earthly ties. It reminds us that while relationships on earth are valuable, they are ultimately temporary and should reflect our faith in Christ.

What can we learn about the afterlife from this verse?

From Luke 20:34, we learn that the afterlife is fundamentally different from our current existence. Jesus indicates that societal structures like marriage do not apply in the same way, suggesting a transformed reality focused on eternal relationships with God.

Memory Tips

To remember Luke 20:34 and its meaning, focus on key phrases like "children of this age" and "marry and are given in marriage." These phrases emphasize the temporary nature of earthly relationships. You can also visualize a timeline, with current life on one side and eternal life on the other, to remind you of the distinction Jesus is making.

Incorporate Luke 20:34 into your daily devotions by reflecting on its implications during prayer time. Consider writing it in your journal and meditating on how it affects your view of marriage and relationships. You could even memorize the verse and recite it when contemplating life's priorities.

Lastly, use mnemonic devices like associating “children” with the focus on earthly life and “marriage” with the temporary nature of these bonds. This visualization can help solidify your understanding of this important teaching of Christ.