What does Luke 17:20 mean?
"¶ And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:" - Luke 17:20

Luke 17:20 from the King James Version (KJV) reads: "And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation."
This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of Luke where Jesus is teaching his disciples about the nature of the kingdom of God. In this particular instance, the Pharisees are questioning him about the coming of the kingdom of God. In response to their inquiry, Jesus makes a profound statement about the nature of the kingdom, and how it will not come through outward signs or observable events.
In order to truly understand the meaning and significance of this verse, it is important to consider both the larger context of the passage and the historical and cultural background in which it was written.
The Pharisees were a group of Jewish religious leaders who were known for their strict observance of religious laws and traditions. They were also very concerned with the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of the kingdom of God. When they questioned Jesus about the coming of the kingdom, they were likely expecting him to give them a specific time or sign to look for.
However, Jesus' response challenges their expectations and reveals a deeper truth about the nature of the kingdom of God. He tells them that the kingdom of God does not come with observation, meaning that it is not something that can be seen or measured in the same way that earthly kingdoms and events can be. Instead, the kingdom of God is a spiritual reality that transcends the physical world.
This statement carries several layers of meaning and significance. Firstly, it speaks to the nature of God's kingdom as being spiritual and internal rather than external and material. It emphasizes the importance of faith and the inward transformation of the heart, rather than relying on outward signs or events to validate the presence of the kingdom.
Secondly, it challenges the Pharisees' preconceived notions about the kingdom of God and the coming of the Messiah. It suggests that their focus on external signs and observable events is a distraction from the true nature of the kingdom, and that they should instead be focused on the inward transformation of their own hearts and lives.
This verse also serves as a reminder to believers that the kingdom of God is not of this world, and that our focus should not be on temporal things, but on the eternal spiritual truths that are found in the kingdom.
Symbolically, this verse can be seen as a call to look beyond the superficial and temporary aspects of life, and to seek out the deeper spiritual truths that are found in the kingdom of God. It also emphasizes the importance of having a faith that goes beyond what can be seen with the physical eyes, and trusting in the spiritual reality of God's kingdom.
Overall, Luke 17:20 from the King James Version (KJV) is a rich and profound statement about the nature of the kingdom of God and the importance of having a spiritual perspective. It challenges our preconceived notions and calls us to seek out the deeper truths that are found in the spiritual realm. It reminds us that the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed with the physical eyes, but is a reality that is to be experienced and lived out through faith and spiritual transformation.
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Luke 17:20 Artwork
Luke 17:20 - "¶ And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:"
"¶ And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:" - Luke 17:20
Luke 20:17 - "And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner?"
"And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner?" - Luke 20:17
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