Jesus Laments Over Jerusalem (Luke 13:31–35)
Explaining Why Jesus Lamens Over Jerusalem in Luke 13:31-35
Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem (Luke 13:31–35) reveals his sorrow over the city’s rejection of God’s messengers and its impending judgment. He longs to gather its people like a hen gathering her chicks, but they refuse. This passage highlights Jesus’ prophetic role, his deep compassion, and the tragic consequences of rejecting God’s invitation.
Introduction
In this passage, Jesus expresses deep sorrow over Jerusalem, foreseeing its fate due to its continued rejection of God’s prophets. This lament is significant because it reveals both his divine mission and his human heartache. The passage also serves as a warning about the consequences of hardening one’s heart to God’s call. Jesus’ lament is not just about a city; it’s about the people who resist the very salvation they need. It highlights God’s persistent desire for relationships with people and the sadness that comes with their refusal to respond.
Verse-by-Verse Breakdown of Jesus’ Lament Over Jerusalem (Luke 13:31–35) and Commentary
Luke 13:31
“Some Pharisees came and said to him, ‘Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.’”
It’s unusual to see Pharisees seemingly concerned for Jesus’ safety, given their usual opposition to him. Whether their warning is genuine or a ploy to deter him, Jesus remains undeterred. Herod Antipas, who had John the Baptist executed, now appears as a threat to Jesus. This moment echoes the larger theme of earthly rulers opposing God’s messengers, much like Pharaoh with Moses (Exodus 5:1-2). The Pharisees, typically skeptical of Jesus, seem to have shifted into a protective stance, but their warning is likely a political move. Herod, a ruler who sought to preserve his power, is threatened by Jesus’ growing influence. The attempt to scare Jesus away underscores the tension between divine mission and human opposition. Earlier, in Luke 9, Herod is perplexed by Jesus.
Luke 13:32
“He said to them, ‘Go and tell that fox for me, “Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work.”’”
Jesus refers to Herod as a “fox,” a term that suggests cunning and insignificance compared to God’s plan. He is not intimidated by Herod’s threats. Instead, he reaffirms his mission—healing, delivering, and ultimately completing his work.
The reference to “the third day” foreshadows his resurrection, a theme that also appears in passages like Philippians 2:8-11. The “third day” here is not just a passing mention; it points toward the completion of God’s redemptive plan, a plan that will culminate in Jesus’ death and resurrection, bringing ultimate victory over sin and death. Historically, the term “fox” would have been understood as a derogatory label in Jewish culture, as it referred to something cunning but weak—especially in contrast to the “lion” often used to describe powerful leaders or kings (see Revelation 5:5).
Luke 13:33
“Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.”
Jesus emphasizes his determination to continue his mission despite threats. His mention of Jerusalem as the place where prophets die carries both irony and lament. The city, meant to be the heart of God’s presence, has a long history of rejecting God’s chosen messengers (2 Chronicles 36:15-16). Jerusalem, the city of David, was supposed to be a place where God’s presence dwelled in the temple and where the people of Israel were called to be a light to the nations (Isaiah 42:6). Yet, throughout Israel’s history, it has become known as the place where God’s messengers are silenced. Jesus, as the ultimate Prophet, is following in the footsteps of those before him, yet his mission will lead him to a tragic conclusion in this very city. His words highlight the paradox of Jerusalem: a city that should have embraced the Messiah but instead rejects him.
Luke 13:34
“Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!”
This is one of the most poignant expressions of Jesus’ grief. The imagery of a mother hen conveys both tenderness and protection, yet Jerusalem refuses. This echoes Isaiah 65:2, where God stretches out his hands to a rebellious people. Jesus’ lament shows the tension between divine love and human resistance. In the Old Testament, God’s people are often described as stubborn and rebellious, refusing to heed the prophets sent to them. Jesus, embodying the very heart of God, reflects this same sorrow. He longs to protect and nurture his people, but they refuse to accept his care. The reference to a hen gathering her chicks highlights both the nurturing love of Jesus and the tragedy of his rejection. This motherly image, often overlooked in discussions of Christ’s nature, emphasizes the vulnerability and depth of his love for the people who will ultimately turn away from him. As John writes in the Prologue of the Gospel of John, “he came to his own and they did not receive him.”
Luke 13:35
“See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
Jesus declares judgment: the “house” (likely referring to the temple) will be abandoned. This prophecy finds fulfillment in the temple’s destruction in 70 AD. The phrase “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord” is a reference to Psalm 118:26 and will be echoed when Jesus enters Jerusalem (Luke 19:38). It suggests a future recognition of his true identity, but only after suffering and rejection.
The imagery of the “house left” is a somber one, signifying a loss of God’s presence among the people of Jerusalem. Jesus’ reference to the temple’s abandonment points to the coming destruction of the city and its temple—events that would unfold within a generation of his death. His words point forward to a future day when the people will recognize him for who he truly is, though that moment will come only after much suffering.
Luke 13:31–35 Meaning for Today
Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem is more than historical—it’s deeply personal. His sorrow over those who reject God’s love extends to all who harden their hearts today. The warning remains: rejecting Christ leads to desolation, while accepting him brings shelter and life. Jesus’ longing to gather the people of Jerusalem as a hen gathers her chicks is a powerful reminder of God’s desire for intimate relationship with us, despite our rejection. The question for us is whether we will turn to him in our need or continue to resist.
His determination to fulfill his mission despite opposition reminds believers to stay faithful in their calling, even in the face of adversity. And his longing to gather his people shows that no matter how often one has resisted, his arms remain open. This passage is a call to respond while there is still time. The words of Christ still stand today, echoing across time: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Conclusion
Luke 13:31–35 captures Jesus’ prophetic insight, his deep compassion, and the heartbreaking reality of rejection. Despite threats, he presses on, knowing his mission leads to the cross. His lament for Jerusalem is not just a historical reflection but a timeless warning and invitation. Will we respond to his call, or will we turn away?
FAQ
Why did Jesus call Herod a fox?
Jesus used “fox” to describe Herod’s cunning yet ultimately powerless opposition to God’s plan. It conveyed both shrewdness and insignificance in the face of divine authority. Herod’s attempts to thwart God’s purpose were like those of a fox: sly but weak compared to God’s sovereign will.
What does the image of a hen and her chicks mean in Luke 13:34?
The hen represents Jesus’ desire to protect and gather his people, but their unwillingness prevents them from receiving his care. It is an image of both love and sorrow, emphasizing Jesus’ tender affection for the people of Jerusalem, despite their rejection.
What does ‘your house is left to you’ mean in Luke 13:35?
This likely refers to the temple and Jerusalem as a whole, symbolizing divine abandonment due to persistent rejection of God’s messengers. This was fulfilled when the temple was destroyed in 70 AD, as foretold by Jesus.
What is the significance of ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord’?
This phrase from Psalm 118:26 points to Jesus’ future recognition as the Messiah. While the crowds will chant it during his triumphal entry, its ultimate fulfillment will come when he returns in glory. This echoes the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, where the king of Israel is depicted as humble and righteous, bringing peace to the nations.
