King James Version

What Does Luke 21:36 Mean?

“Watch ye therefore, and pray always , that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.”

Context

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.

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

Watch ye therefore, and pray always , that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

And in the day time he was teaching in the temple; and at night he went out, and abode in the mount that is called the mount of Olives.

And all the people came early in the morning to him in the temple, for to hear him.

Read full chapter →

Topics in This Verse

Prayer

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(36) **Pray always.**—The word is not the same commonly used for “pray,” but occurs once only in the other Gospels (Matthew 9:38). St. Luke uses it fifteen times in the Gospel and Acts together, and St. Paul six times (2Corinthians 5:20; 2Corinthians 8:4; 2Corinthians 10:2, *et seq.*)*.* It is not used by any other New Testament writer. **That ye may be accounted worthy . . .**—See Note on Luke 20:35. The better MSS., however, give, “that ye may have strength to escape.” **To stand before the Son of man.**—The same preposition is used with special reference to the final judgment in 2Corinthians 5:10, 1Thessalonians 3:13.

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 21:36 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.