Who are the women Jesus pronounces 'woe' on in Matthew 24:19?
In Matthew 24:19, Jesus pronounces woe upon expectant mothers—women with child—and upon nursing mothers, those caring for little ones. This verse addresses yet another segment of society during the flight He describes, urging readiness and prayer that their flight not be in winter or on the Sabbath.
Les explains that verse 19 moves into yet another segment of society: mothers. He identifies them as expectant mothers, those with child, and nursing mothers, those with little ones. This follows earlier categories in the passage, such as retired people on the housetop patio and working-class people in the field. Jesus tells these groups to be ready to go and not return for possessions. He also instructs them to pray their flight not be in winter or on the Sabbath, because Israel is going back under the law.
And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!
More Questions
What does the list of people in Matthew 24:19 represent?
Verse 19's groups—young women, young mothers-to-be, and nursing mothers, along with retired people and working people—make up a complete cross-section of a society.
Who are the people affected by the woe in Matthew 24:19?
The woe and flight conditions in Matthew 24:19 apply to a complete cross-section of people: young mothers, older people, middle-aged people, and younger people.
Who are the 'with child' and 'nursing' groups mentioned in Matthew 24:19?
The group described as 'with child' and 'nursing' in the tribulation prophecy refers to the younger generation—young women, including pregnant women and nursing mothers—who must flee with their offspring.