Luke 17:23 – “People will tell you, ‘There he is!’ or ‘Here he is!’ Do not go running off after them.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus is warning His disciples that during the period of waiting for His return, people will claim to have discovered the Messiah or claim to know where He can be found. There will be false teachers and false messiahs who attempt to deceive others by saying, “Here He is” or “There He is.” Jesus tells His followers not to be misled by these claims or to chase after such rumors.
This warning is important because it emphasizes that when Jesus returns, His coming will be unmistakable and universally recognized (Luke 17:24). There won’t be any need to search for Him in secret places or follow false prophets. His return will be a dramatic, visible event that no one will miss. Until then, believers are to remain grounded in their faith and not be swayed by speculation or fear.
Historical Context
During Jesus’ time, many Jews were eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Messiah, whom they believed would deliver them from Roman oppression and restore Israel’s glory. This created an environment where people were vulnerable to false claims of messianic leadership. Throughout history, there have been individuals who claimed to be the Messiah, leading many people astray.
Even after Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension, false teachers and self-proclaimed messiahs continued to appear (see Acts 5:36-37). This was a concern for the early church, and it remains relevant today, as various cult leaders and religious figures still claim to have special knowledge about Christ’s return.
Jesus’ warning is not just about avoiding obvious deceivers—it’s also about resisting the temptation to chase after sensational claims or signs. His message is clear: believers must rely on God’s Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, not on rumors or human speculation.
Theological Implications
This verse emphasizes the importance of discernment and spiritual vigilance. False teachers and deceptive doctrines can be enticing, especially when they promise quick answers or dramatic signs. However, Jesus teaches that the truth of His return is not hidden or dependent on secret knowledge—it is revealed through Scripture and will be evident to all when it happens.
Theologically, this verse also highlights the importance of trusting in God’s timing and plan. It’s easy to become anxious about the future, especially when facing uncertainty or hardship. But Jesus’ instruction to “not go running off” reminds believers to remain patient and grounded in their faith, trusting that God will fulfill His promises in His perfect time.
Additionally, this warning points to the spiritual danger of seeking experiences or miracles over a solid relationship with Christ. Instead of chasing after dramatic signs, believers are called to grow in their knowledge of God through Scripture, prayer, and obedience.
Literary Analysis
This verse is part of a larger section in Luke where Jesus discusses the coming of the kingdom of God and His return (Luke 17:20-37). The warning against false claims is framed as direct advice to the disciples, which gives it a personal and urgent tone. The use of phrases like “There he is!” and “Here he is!” mimics the language of rumors and gossip, emphasizing how easily people can be drawn into speculation.
The phrase “Do not go running off after them” suggests a sense of stability and steadfastness. Jesus is contrasting the restless, frantic search for signs with the calm, assured faith of those who trust in His promises. This contrast reinforces the idea that true believers do not need to panic or chase after every new claim—they already have everything they need in Christ.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 24:23-26 – “At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah!’ or, ‘There He is!’ do not believe it. For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”
- 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 – “Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to Him, we ask you, brothers and sisters, not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by the teaching allegedly from us… Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way.”
- 1 John 4:1 – “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
- Revelation 1:7 – “Look, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him.”
- Acts 20:29-30 – “I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For modern believers, this verse is a reminder to be cautious about claims regarding Jesus’ return. In a world filled with media, internet theories, and self-proclaimed prophets, it’s easy to be misled by sensational news or conspiracy theories. Jesus warns us not to get caught up in these distractions but to stay focused on Him and His teachings.
This verse also encourages believers to cultivate spiritual discernment. By studying the Bible and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Christians can recognize false teachings and stay grounded in the truth. We are called to test everything against Scripture and to trust that God will reveal His plans in His time.
Additionally, this verse reminds Christians to live with a steady, patient faith. Instead of chasing after signs, believers are to live each day in obedience to God, knowing that His return will be unmistakable when it happens.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is demonstrated in the fact that He warns His people about the dangers of deception. Jesus doesn’t leave His followers in the dark—He provides clear instructions to help them navigate the challenges they will face while waiting for His return. His warning is an act of love, meant to protect believers from spiritual harm.
God’s love is also evident in the fact that He has given us everything we need to stay on the right path. Through His Word, the Holy Spirit, and the fellowship of other believers, God equips us to discern truth from lies and to remain faithful, even in difficult times.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate source of truth, and His return will be the culmination of God’s redemptive plan. By warning His disciples not to chase after false claims, Jesus is affirming that His second coming will be unmistakable. Believers don’t need to search for Him—when He returns, it will be clear to everyone.
Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd is also reflected in this verse. Like a shepherd guiding His flock, Jesus warns His followers about dangers and provides the wisdom they need to stay safe. His love and protection are central to His relationship with His followers, and His warnings about false messiahs are an extension of that care.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever felt tempted to chase after sensational claims or signs related to Jesus’ return? How did you handle that temptation?
- How can you develop greater discernment when it comes to spiritual teachings and claims?
- What does it mean to live with patient faith while waiting for Jesus’ return?
- How can you encourage others to stay focused on God’s Word and avoid being misled by false teachings?
- How does trusting in God’s timing give you peace, even when the world seems chaotic or uncertain?
This verse reminds believers to stay grounded in the truth of God’s Word and to trust that when Jesus returns, it will be clear to all. Until that day, we are called to live faithfully, resist distractions, and rely on God’s guidance to stay on the path He has set before us.