Saying 113

English

His disciples said to him, ‘When will the kingdom come?’

‘It will not come by looking. It will not be said, “Look, here it is!” or “Look, there it is!” Instead, the kingdom of the Father is spread out over the earth, but people do not see it.’

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Interpretation

Compare Sayings 3, 18, 37, 43, and 51.

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Parallels

Mark

13.21–22 ‘And if anyone says to you at that time, “Look! Here is the Anointed One,” or “Look! There he is,” do not believe it. False anointed ones and false prophets will appear and produce signs and omens, to lead astray, if possible, the elect.’

Matthew

Matthew 24.23–27 Then if anyone says to you, “Look, here is the Anointed One,” or “There he is,” do not believe it. For false anointed ones and false prophets will appear and produce great signs and omens, to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. Take note, I have told you beforehand. So, if they say to you, “Look, he is in the wilderness,” do not go out. If they say, “Look, he is in the inner rooms,” do not believe it. For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes as far as the west, so will be the coming of the son of man.’

Luke

17.20–24 Once Jesus was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, and he answered, ‘The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed, nor will they say, “Look, here it is!” or “There it is!” For, in fact, the kingdom of God is within you.’ Then he said to the disciples, ‘The days are coming when you will long to see one of the days of the son of man, and you will not see it. They will say to you, “Look there!” or “Look here!” Do not go, do not set off in pursuit. For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the son of man be in his day.’

Gospel of Mary

‘Beware that no one leads you astray, saying, “Look here!” or “Look there!” For the son of man is within you.’