King James Version

What Does Luke 21:33 Mean?

Luke 21:33 in the King James Version says “Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. — study this verse from Luke chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.

Luke 21:33 · KJV


Context

31

So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.

32

Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled.

33

Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.

34

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.

35

For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus declares: 'Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.' This contrasts the temporal (heaven and earth) with the eternal (Jesus' words). The universe itself will be destroyed (2 Peter 3:10), but Jesus' words endure forever. The phrase 'shall not pass away' (Greek 'ou mē parelthōsin,' οὐ μὴ παρέλθωσιν) is emphatic double negative—absolutely will not pass away. This claims divine authority—only God's word is eternal. Jesus equates His words with God's word, asserting deity and Scripture's absolute reliability. His teachings are more certain than the universe's continued existence.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This concludes Jesus' eschatological discourse about signs, tribulation, and His return. The statement's force is stunning—heaven and earth seem permanent, yet will be destroyed; Jesus' words seem temporary (spoken breath), yet are eternal. Isaiah prophesied 'the word of our God shall stand for ever' (Isaiah 40:8); Jesus applies this to His own words. Jewish Scripture affirmed Torah's permanence; Jesus declares His teaching equally eternal. Early church recognized Jesus' words as Scripture alongside Old Testament. This verse guarantees New Testament reliability—Jesus' words recorded in gospels carry divine authority. Modern challenges to Scripture's reliability contradict Jesus' guarantee.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does Jesus' claim that His words outlast the universe reveal about His divine identity and authority?
  2. How should the permanence of Jesus' words affect our approach to Scripture and confidence in its reliability?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
1 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

οὐρανὸς2 of 13

Heaven

G3772

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

καὶ3 of 13

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

4 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

γῆ5 of 13

earth

G1093

soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)

παρέλθωσιν6 of 13

pass away

G3928

to come near or aside, i.e., to approach (arrive), go by (or away), (figuratively) perish or neglect, (causative) avert

οἱ7 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ8 of 13

but

G1161

but, and, etc

λόγοι9 of 13

words

G3056

something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a

μου10 of 13

my

G3450

of me

οὐ11 of 13
G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

μὴ12 of 13
G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

παρέλθωσιν13 of 13

pass away

G3928

to come near or aside, i.e., to approach (arrive), go by (or away), (figuratively) perish or neglect, (causative) avert


Study Guide

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 21:33 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Luke 21:33 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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