King James Version

What Does Luke 17:34 Mean?

“I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.”

Context

Remember Lot's wife.

Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it.

I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.

Two women shall be grinding together ; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. this verse is not found in most of the Greek copies

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(34, 35) **Two men in one bed.**—See Notes on Matthew 24:40-41. The one to be “taken” is probably here, as there, the man who is rescued from destruction. Here there is a variation enough to prove independence, the “two in one bed” being prefixed to the examples given in St. Matthew as an instance of even closer companionship.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Luke 17:34 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.