Luke 21:35 – “For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus is speaking about the sudden and unavoidable nature of the final day of judgment. “It” refers to the events leading up to His return, including the judgment and cosmic upheaval He has just described. This warning emphasizes that no one will be able to escape the events of the end times—whether people are prepared or not, the day of the Lord will affect everyone living on earth.
Jesus’ words remind us that God’s plan for history is universal. The events He is describing won’t be confined to a single nation or people group but will encompass the entire world. The global nature of this warning highlights the seriousness of being spiritually ready. No one can hide from God’s judgment, and no one can avoid the consequences of rejecting His truth. However, those who are prepared, living in faith and obedience, have nothing to fear because they will experience the fulfillment of God’s promises and their final redemption.
Historical Context
The idea of a global judgment was familiar to Jesus’ Jewish audience. In the Old Testament, the “day of the Lord” was often described as a time of divine intervention, bringing both judgment on the wicked and salvation for the righteous. Prophets like Zephaniah and Joel spoke of this day as one of reckoning for all people, not just Israel. Zephaniah 1:14-18 describes the day of the Lord as a time of distress and anguish, affecting the entire earth.
At the time Jesus spoke these words, His disciples were living under Roman occupation, and their primary concern was often Israel’s deliverance. However, Jesus expanded their understanding by explaining that God’s plan of salvation and judgment would extend to the entire world. This teaching foreshadowed the mission of the early church to spread the gospel to all nations and the eventual return of Christ, which will affect all humanity.
The destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 served as a partial fulfillment of Jesus’ warnings, but the full realization of this prophecy will come at the end of time when Christ returns to judge the living and the dead.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the universality of God’s judgment and the need for personal responsibility. No one is exempt from God’s final reckoning, which means that each person must be prepared. Theologically, it teaches that God is sovereign over all creation and that His judgment is just and impartial. Whether someone is rich or poor, powerful or insignificant, everyone will stand before God and give an account of their life.
The global nature of this warning also reinforces the importance of the gospel. Since God’s judgment will affect the entire earth, the message of salvation through Jesus Christ must be shared with all people. Matthew 28:19 commands believers to “go and make disciples of all nations,” reflecting the urgency of spreading the good news before the day of judgment comes.
Additionally, this verse reminds believers of the hope they have in Christ. While God’s judgment is certain, so is His promise of salvation for those who trust in Him. For believers, the coming of “that day” is not a reason to fear but a reason to rejoice, because it marks the completion of their salvation and the beginning of eternal life in God’s kingdom.
Literary Analysis
The phrase “it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth” emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the events Jesus is describing. The repetition of universal terms like “all” and “whole earth” leaves no room for exceptions—everyone will be affected. This language is designed to create a sense of urgency, warning listeners that they cannot ignore the coming day of judgment.
The structure of this verse builds on the previous warnings about being spiritually prepared. Jesus is not merely giving information about future events; He is calling people to action. The use of vivid imagery and strong language throughout this passage highlights the seriousness of the situation and the need to respond in faith and obedience.
The phrase “it will come” carries a sense of inevitability. Jesus is not speaking hypothetically—He is making a definitive statement about what will happen. This certainty reinforces the reliability of His words and the importance of taking them seriously.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Zephaniah 1:14-18 – Describes the day of the Lord as a time of distress for all people on earth.
- Joel 2:1-2 – A prophecy about the day of the Lord, described as a day of darkness and judgment.
- Matthew 24:30 – Jesus describes the Son of Man appearing in the sky, with all the nations of the earth mourning.
- Revelation 1:7 – “Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all peoples on earth will mourn because of him.”
- Romans 14:10-12 – Paul reminds believers that everyone will stand before God’s judgment seat and give an account of their life.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the importance of living in spiritual readiness. The fact that God’s judgment will affect the entire world means that no one can afford to be complacent. Believers are called to live holy lives, keeping their focus on Christ and avoiding the distractions and temptations of the world.
This verse also highlights the urgency of sharing the gospel. Since God’s judgment is coming on all people, believers have a responsibility to tell others about the salvation available through Jesus Christ. The knowledge that “it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth” should motivate Christians to be bold in their witness and compassionate toward those who have not yet heard the good news.
Additionally, this verse offers reassurance to believers. While the idea of global judgment can be intimidating, those who trust in Christ can face that day with confidence, knowing that they are covered by His grace. 1 John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear.” Believers can look forward to the day of Christ’s return, knowing that it will be a day of redemption and restoration for them.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in the fact that He warns people about the coming judgment. Jesus didn’t have to give this warning, but He did so out of love, wanting as many people as possible to be prepared and saved. His warnings are acts of mercy, designed to lead people to repentance and faith before it is too late.
God’s love is also shown in His provision of a way of escape through Jesus Christ. While the whole world will face judgment, those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior will be spared from condemnation. John 3:16 beautifully sums up this truth: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Finally, God’s love is reflected in His justice. His judgment is not arbitrary or unfair—it is based on His perfect holiness and righteousness. His love ensures that evil will be punished and that those who have trusted in Him will be rewarded.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is central to this verse because He is the one who will return to judge the world and establish God’s kingdom. As the Son of Man, He has been given authority over all nations, and His return will be the culmination of God’s plan for salvation and judgment. Matthew 25:31-32 describes Jesus sitting on His throne and separating the righteous from the wicked, reflecting His role as the ultimate judge.
Through His death and resurrection, Jesus made it possible for people to be saved from the judgment that is coming on the whole world. Those who have placed their faith in Him can stand before God with confidence, knowing that their sins have been forgiven and that they have been made righteous through Christ. Romans 8:1 says, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Jesus’ return is both a warning and a promise. For those who have rejected Him, it will be a day of judgment, but for those who have trusted Him, it will be a day of joy and eternal life.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the certainty of God’s judgment motivate you to live a holy and obedient life?
- In what ways can you share the message of salvation with others, knowing that God’s judgment is universal?
- How can you balance the seriousness of this warning with the hope and confidence you have in Christ?
- What distractions or temptations could prevent you from being spiritually ready, and how can you overcome them?
- How does knowing that God’s judgment is just and fair give you peace in the face of life’s challenges?
This verse reminds Christians that God’s plan is unfolding, and His judgment is certain. By trusting in Jesus and living in readiness, believers can face the future with confidence, knowing that their redemption is near and that God’s promises will be fulfilled.