Matthew Chapter Twenty-Four
Introduction to the Olivet Discourse
As pointed out earlier, the understanding of prophecy is important to authenticate Scripture as being from God.[1] Beginning with the first verse of Matthew chapter 24, we are introduced to what scholars refer to as the Olivet Discourse, a prophetic discourse given on the Mount of Olives. Instead of the prophetic word given through a prophet, this detailed discourse regarding the future is presented by Jesus Himself. While considered one discourse, the accounts recorded in Matthew 24:1-25:46; Mark 13:1-37 and Luke 21:5-36 differ somewhat.[2] We also see that Matthew’s account contains more detail along with additional material not found in the other two accounts.
Each account begins with Jesus and His disciples being near the Temple (see Matthew 24:1; Mark 13:1; Luke 21:5). In response to one of His disciples commenting on the stones used to construct the Temple, Jesus offers the first prophecy regarding the Temple’s destruction (see Matthew 24:2; Mark 13:2; Luke 21:6). According to Matthew and Mark the discussion continued later when they were on the Mount of Olives. Luke’s account does not clarify or offer a location for the discourse (an important fact to remember for later discussion, although some believe that verse 37 in Luke’s account infers that they are on the Mount of Olives).
The Initial Questions
The bulk of the discourse is in response to several questions asked by Jesus’ disciples. Often considered just two or three questions, we need to note that there are some subtle differences that could be considered four different questions as outlined here:
Question 1: “Tell us, when will these things be”? (Matthew 24:3b; essentially identical to the questions recorded in Mark 13:4 and Luke 21:7). Since the questions follow Jesus’ statement about the destruction of the Temple, it is understood that the question is asking when that event will occur.
Question 2: “What will be the sign of your coming”? (Matthew 24:3c). Referring to Jesus’ second coming (see Zechariah 14:4; 12:10; Matthew 16:27; Mark 8:38; Luke 9:26; 12:40; John 14:1-3; Revelation 19:11-16), this question is found only in Matthew’s account.
Question 3: What will be the sign “of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3d) Again only in Matthew’s gospel, the question pertains to what sign will be given when the end of time is near.
Question 4: “What will be the sign when all these things are about to be accomplished?” (Mark 13:4b; essentially identical to Luke 21:7b) While Question 1 asked when the destruction of the Temple will take place, this question is asking what will be the sign offered prior to that event.
Looking for Signs
Note the often-used term ‘sign’ found in most of these questions. What is a sign? A sign is something that might be best described as something arbitrarily selected and appointed to represent something else. The letters of the alphabet, for example, represent sounds and meaning. There is no relation between these representations or ‘signs’ and the things they signify, except that people have agreed to employ them for these purposes. As proven by the fact that you can read this text. This is essentially true with all forms of ‘signs’, including stop signs, traffic signals, price tags, all the way to those funny little icons on your car’s dashboard. Typically, you have to know what the sign means before you can determine what it represents.
When Moses said that the swarm of flies should be a ‘sign’ to the Egyptians (see Exodus 8:23), there was nothing in the nature of the swarm to show what was signified, except that it was supernatural. Isaiah’s walking barefoot had no natural connection with the Syrian conquest of Egypt (see Isaiah 20:3), and yet this was to be “a sign” of that fact. And in Genesis 1:14, God said of the celestial lights, “and let them be for signs and for seasons.” Was that a reference to daily occurrences, such as the beginning and ending of a day? Or is there something else attached to the meaning? If so, what? Remembering, of course, a sign is only a sign if it is understood.
When the Hebrew word ‘ôt’[3] or the Greek ‘sēmeion’[4] are translated as ‘sign’ (as seen in this discourse), they typically refer to a miraculous sign or wonder that clearly demonstrates God’s supernatural involvement. Throughout the Old Testament, God’s people have been guided by His signs, so it is appropriate that the disciples ask for signs to watch out for to guide them (and future generations) to do the right thing at the right time. Much like a modern driver looks for the right street sign to get to their destination.
Destruction of the Temple
Readers today may have difficulty in understanding the impact of losing the Temple, as the Temple was the centerpiece of every Jew’s life. It would have also been considered unthinkable as that is where God’s name dwelled (see Deuteronomy 12:5, 11, 21; 14:23-24; 16:2, 6, 11; 26:2; 1 Kings 5:3, 5; 8:16-20, 29, 44, 48; 9:3; 2 Kings 23:27; 2 Chronicles 6:7-10, 34, 38; 7:16, 20; Jeremiah 7:10-14, 30). Knowing the sign that would occur before the destruction of the city and Temple would allow them time to prepare and if they were in town they could leave before it happened.
End Times
After discussing the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple, Jesus then focuses on yet-future events, what is classically referred to as the End Times (the study of End Times is called eschatology). He walks the disciples and future readers through several signs that will occur before the end. There will be a sequence of events that will lead to final judgment. Jesus will also discuss His second coming, which will also occur near the end.
Regarding these yet-future signs pointing to the end times, it is especially important that Christians be found carrying out the great commission (see Matthew 28:18-20) and helping others understand that God is still in control and that these things must occur, in other words continue being a witness for Jesus!
It is important to note that the Temple has never been rebuilt and it won’t be for awhile since believers themselves are the Temple of God (see 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16; Ephesians 2:19-22). However, Scripture does tell us that it will be rebuilt near the End Times (see Ezekiel chapters 40-44), at which time believers will be in heaven (see 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
The timing of the prophetic events Jesus refers to in this discourse has been, and continues to be, a highly debated topic. Sadly, this argument and other disagreements regarding prophecy have created significant polarization between many Christian groups, pushing apart believers instead of bringing them together.
The teaching of the Olivet discourse is much debated and frequently misunderstood, largely because it is viewed through the lens of a particular theological system or interpretive scheme that makes the message appear complex and enigmatic. But the disciples were not learned men, and Jesus’ purpose was to give them clarity and encouragement, not complexity and anxiety. The intricate interpretations that are sometimes proposed for this passage would have left the disciples utterly dumbfounded. It is preferable to take Jesus’ words as simply and as straightforwardly as possible.[5]
The interpretation of any Biblical prophecy requires the same discipline of any serious Bible study (known as Biblical hermeneutics).[6] In addition, we must always remember Peter’s warning, “no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation.” (2 Peter 1:20b) This warning is often overlooked as many false teachers and theologians gain notoriety through fanciful interpretations which can innocently mislead others. Even though the controversy is mostly regarding yet-future events, we can learn valuable principles of interpretation from fulfilled prophecy (for example Old Testament prophecy being fulfilled in the New Testament). It would be an understatement to say that there are several perspectives and opinions regarding yet-to-be-fulfilled prophecy. However, most of the interpretation variations seem to stem from four primary viewpoints. Here is a quick summary of each:
Futurism interprets the prophecies that appear to have not yet been fulfilled in the Bible or history, will be fulfilled at some future date (including those referred to by Jesus here and Revelation chapters 4-22). As with each primary interpretation, there are several debated elements to Futurism, including a seven-year period of tribulation, the possibility of a rapture (Jesus removing His people before the end), the timing of that rapture (before, during, or after the tribulation), a thousand-year period (known as the Millennium), and the concept of dispensationalism. Futurism also favors a more literal interpretation of the text (although still allowing for literary devices such as metaphors and other figures of speech). This method reflects similarly to how fulfilled prophecy was interpreted in the Bible (for example when Daniel read the writings of the prophet Jeremiah that their captivity would only last 70 years, he believed it would be a literal 70-year period and it was, see Daniel 9:2).
A Preterist interprets what might be described by Futurism as an event yet-future, to be something that had already occurred. For example, they believe that most, if not all, of the events described by Jesus in here in Matthew chapter 24 have already occurred when Jerusalem fell during the First Jewish-Roman War. Also note that most Preterists do not believe in a literal 1,000-year period (a belief that is often referred to as Amillennialism), as this viewpoint favors an allegorical method of interpretation. Click here to read our refutation of preterism
Historicism interprets events, such as those described in the Olivet Discourse and the book of Revelation, to be a series of events that have been unfolding in time, not necessarily at a specific time. Some events would already be fulfilled, while others could still be yet-future. This viewpoint was prominent during the Reformation period as the papal authority was associated with a person identified by theologians as the ‘Antichrist’. The Reformation founder, Martin Luther, held the Historicist view and wrote extensively on the comparison of the pope to the Antichrist.
The idealist interpretation connects the symbolism of prophecy to more general or typical events rather than to any specific event or series of events as expressed in the other three primary viewpoints. Idealism interpretation can also be called symbolic or spiritual, as the events are believed to refer to the on-going struggle between God’s people and those that follow Satan and the world. For example, the Idealist interpretation sees prophecy, like that which is given in the book of Revelation, as being fulfilled continuously throughout history.
Interpretation Variations
It is important to note that while the four main viewpoints mentioned above may provide the basic framework for each concept, the variations of interpretation within those viewpoints are seemingly endless! To add to the confusion, the terminology is not always consistent from one viewpoint to another. Here is a quick review of some of the basic terminology employed in eschatology:[7]
Tribulation: A Futurist view of a seven-year period of time consisting of various disastrous scenarios. This viewpoint uses Daniel 9:24-27 (often called Daniel’s 70 Weeks)[8] as an outline for prophecy past, present, and future. According to Daniel 9:26 the Tribulation can be divided into two equal parts. The first half aligns with Revelation chapters 6-9 (and possibly 17) followed by events of Revelation chapters 10-14 which then launches the second half that follows Revelation chapters 15-16 and 18, often identified as the “Great Tribulation” (see Matthew 24:21; Revelation 7:14).
Rapture: A highly polarizing event that is often emotionally debated by Christians. While the Futurist’s term ‘rapture’ is not found in any English Bible, it is transliterated from the Latin word ‘rapturo’, a translation of the Greek word ‘harpazō’[9] which does appear in Matthew 11:12; 12:29; 13:19; John 6:15; 10:12, 28, 29; Acts 8:39; 23:10; 2 Corinthians 12:2, 3; 1 Thessalonians 4:17; Jude 23 and Revelation 12:5 (typically translated as snatched, caught up, taken, or carried away). The term applies here to the rapid removal of believers that are living on earth and instantly be ‘transported’ in the presence of Jesus without having to die (similar to Enoch and Elijah, see Genesis 5:24; 2 Kings 2:11, see also 1 Corinthians 15:52). The timing of the Rapture is also a source of great debate. There are three main considerations: 1) Before the Tribulation (Pre-Trib), when the Rapture is to occur before the events of the Tribulation begins (similar to Lot and his family being removed from Sodom before its destruction, see Genesis 19:1-22); 2) After the first three and a half years, in the middle of the Tribulation (Mid-Trib); and 3) After the Tribulation (Post-Trib), believed by many thinking that living believers will not be spared from the Tribulation. While there are several other opinions as to the timing of the rapture, there is one additional popular view that is simply referred to as being “Before the Wrath” (or Pre-Wrath). Proponents of this view point to Revelation 6:17 and define “the great day of their wrath” as the events after the sixth seal judgments and therefore Christians will experience the first six seal judgments along with everyone else (see Revelation 6:1-17, see also Matthew 24:1-51). They believe that these six are the wrath of Satan (or the beast, also known as the ‘antichrist’) and that the ‘elect’ in these verses refer only to believers, but upon close examination the term appears to be referring to the Jews, not the church (for example see Matthew 24:20).
Second Coming: The concept of Jesus coming back is shared by each viewpoint. However, Futurists believe that the prophecies that are attributed by the other viewpoints to relate to His Second Coming are actually two events. The first being the Rapture (although not considered by Futurists as being part of the Second Coming), where He does not physically come to Earth, believers are “Caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:17b, see also John 14:1-3; Romans 8:19; 1 Corinthians 1:7-8; 15:1-53; 16:22; Philippians 3:20-21; Colossians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 2:19; 4:13-18; 5:9, 23; 2 Thessalonians 2:1; 1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 4:1; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; James 5:7-9; 1 Peter 1:7, 13; 1 John 2:28-3:2; Jude 21; Revelation 2:25; 3:10). The second being His arrival, “the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.” (1 Thessalonians 3:13b, see also Daniel 2:44-45; 7:9-14; 12:1-3; Zechariah 14:1-15; Matthew 13:41; 24:15-31; 26:64; Mark 13:14-27; 14:62; Luke 21:25-28; Acts 1:9-11; 3:19-21; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10; 2:8; 2 Peter 3:1-14; Jude 14-15; Revelation 1:7; 19:11-20:6; 22:7, 12, 20).
Millennium: Derived from the Latin ‘millie’ meaning one thousand. The Millennium is considered a literal thousand-year period on earth that occurs after the Tribulation (see Revelation 20:1-6). Since God cannot lie,[10] and knowing that His promises to the people of Israel were not completely fulfilled (for one example see Genesis 15:18-21), it is believed that He will fulfill those promises during this period. Those that do not believe there will be a millennium are known as Amillennialists. Click here to read our refutation of amillennialism.
Destruction of the Temple
[Text parallels Mark 13:1-2 and Luke 21:5-6]
24:1 Jesus left the temple and was going away, when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. 2 But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”
Jesus’ disciples were so impressed by the outward appearance of the Temple that they called His attention to it. Undoubtedly seen many times, perhaps being at an advantage point that offered a better view or the sun was shinning particularly bright, in any case, the disciples were awed by the vision. According to the historian Josephus[11] the Temple grounds during Jesus’ time were indeed spectacular to view:
Now the outward face of the temple in its front wanted nothing that was likely to surprise either men’s minds or their eyes, for it was covered all over with plates of gold of great weight, and, at the first rising of the sun, reflected back a very fiery splendor, and made those who forced themselves to look upon it to turn their eyes away, just as they would have done at the sun’s own rays. But this temple appeared to strangers, when they were at a distance, like a mountain covered with snow; for, as to those parts of it that were not gilt, they were exceeding white. (The Wars of the Jews or the History of the Destruction of Jerusalem, Chapter 5, 222-223)[12]
Jesus asked them to carefully look and take note of all of the buildings, likely to help them appreciate the scope of what He was about to say. He told them that not one stone used to construct the Temple will be left intact, each will be broken apart, turned over and thrown down (Greek ‘katalythēsetai’,[13] to loosen, demolish, destroy). The entire structure was not only to be destroyed, it would be dissembled to the point that each stone will be pulled apart from each other.
Considerations
Just as Jesus prophesied, the Temple was destroyed in 70 A.D. during the First Jewish-Roman war[14] on the ninth day of the Jewish month of Av. Jesus also stated that, “there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” The destruction and fire that resulted from the Roman raid are both well documented by historians like Josephus and substantiated through several archeological findings. However, the often-told story about the Romans breaking up the stones to recover the melted gold and silver has never been historically verified. While a feasible explanation, there is no record to attest to its accuracy.
Not all of the Temple grounds were completely destroyed. A portion of the outer wall that surrounded the Temple complex survived. Although not technically part of the Temple itself, this “Western Wall” is highly revered by Jews and is currently used as a location of somber prayer.
The Hebrew name for the ninth day of the Hebrew month of Av. It is an annual day of prayer and fasting for most Jews, a day of intense mourning. The day marks the destruction of both Solomon’s Temple and the Second Temple as well as a number of other disasters and calamities that all occurred on the same day to the people of Israel. The ninth day of the Hebrew month of Av typically falls late July or early August in the Gregorian calendar.
Signs of the Second Coming and End of the Age
[Text parallels Mark 13:3-13 and Luke 21:7-19]
24:3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”
The Mount of Olives is located approximately two miles east of the Temple in Jerusalem on the other side of the Kidron Valley. In Mark’s account the disciples were Peter, James, John, and Andrew (see Mark 13:3). Undoubtedly Jesus’ comments about the Temple’s destruction astonished His disciples raising a lot of questions in their minds as they walked to the Mount of Olives. When they arrived they begin with the most logical question anyone would likely ask after hearing that their beloved Temple would one day be destroyed, “When will these things be?” Due to the wording and sentence structure, it would be safe to assume that the ‘things’ being referenced were tied to Jesus’ comment about the Temple’s destruction, even though the location is now different and some time had passed.
The disciples then ask Jesus, “What will be the sign of your (second) coming?” Knowing that His return will be spectacular bringing glory to God near the end of time (see Matthew 16:27a), the disciples are curious what sign will proceed the event (possibly already understanding that they are not to know precisely when). And since they know that His return will be near the end of time (see Matthew 16:27b), the natural question to follow would be about a sign that would precede the end. It is important to note that the disciples understood that these were three separate events that would not happen simultaneously.
24:4 And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray.
As mentioned earlier,[15] the subject of false teaching is a huge problem within Christianity, perhaps its greatest issue since a ‘false’ understanding can effectively block one from accepting Jesus (see Matthew 7:21-23). Here He offers a stern warning, “See that no one leads you astray.” An interesting phrase, one that clearly teaches that every believer has the responsibility to stay focused on obtaining and knowing the truth (remember Acts 17:11). One such ploy is to deceive people in believing that Jesus had returned, calling themselves ‘Christ’, a scheme that apparently works as many have and will continue to be led astray. Throughout the history of Christianity there have been many cult leaders that have either identified themselves as being ’christ’ or incorrectly used Scripture to persuade their followers in believing that they were appointed by Jesus to be their leader.
24:6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.
Most Christians, as well as many unbelievers, have heard these verses. There are two classic interpretations, one being a description of time passing recognizing that there will be life-changing events like earthquakes and wars occurring on an on-going basis, but the end has not arrived. The other being a description of events that are to be considered signs that warn that the last days are near.
Jesus calls our attention to the harsh reality of humanity, there will always be conflict between people and nations. If not currently at war, there will always be rumors of impending war, as nations and kingdoms will rise against each other. While a conflict or threat may seem ominous or become very grave, Jesus tells us that the end is not yet. The same applies to disasters, famines and any other threat of doom occurring around the world. All these must take place due primarily to corruption. As the result of sin, creation is no longer perfect (see Genesis 3:17; Romans 8:20-22), allowing horrific natural disasters to occur and mankind to lust, hate, and scheme against others.
One of the reasons for the varied understandings of these passages is based on how verse eight is interpreted. Jesus says that, “All these are but the beginning of the birth pains,” which raises two basic questions: 1) What does “all these” include? and 2) The beginning of what? Regarding the first question, many believe this includes everything listed in verse five through seven, while others believe this pertains to just verse seven alone (being the signs of the end). The second question is more controversial, as the Greek word that is translated here as “birth pains” is ‘ōdinōn’,[16] although considered to refer to ‘labor pains,’ it can also metaphorically mean simply pain, sorrow, or intolerable anguish. The word’s elusive definition is amplified by an unknown etymology believed to mean “pain of the body.” Many commentators expand on the idea of it meaning labor pains by adding the comparison of human birth pain being greater and more frequent as the time of birth gets closer. Pointing out that these signs will get greater in intensity and frequency as the end grows closer.
24:9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake. 10 And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another.
The Greek ‘thlipsin’[17] translated here as ‘tribulation’ can mean to crush, press, compress, squeeze, or even break. In the Bible, the word is often used figuratively to refer to a period of pressure from an enemy, affliction, distress, persecution, or even judgment. Sadly, the term ‘tribulation’ is loosely bantered about in Christianity, we need to remember that when the term is used it does not always refer to the Futurist period called the Tribulation[18] nor does it always refer to persecution or judgment of God.
While it is true that Christian persecution is inevitable, it appears that Jesus is speaking about a specific period of time, often considered the beginning of the first half of the Tribulation. If the pre-Tribulation rapture scenario is true (and has occurred prior to this verse), those believers would be with Him now in heaven. So which Christians would still be on earth? There will likely be a number of recent believers (converts), those that accepted Jesus after witnessing the rapture. Persecution will come from around the world, those who hate believers and will ultimately put those who follow Jesus to death. As a result many “Christians,” undoubtedly by name only, will refuse to continue following Jesus and fall away from the truth, which then leads to their betrayal of friends and believers. The fear of persecution and the threat of death will transform these former “believers” into haters of Christians.
24:11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.
Jesus provides another warning regarding false teaching (see verse four), here He notes that many will be led astray. Why would Jesus again warn about false prophets and remind us again that many will be led astray? The simple answer is that false teaching exists, and people, including Christians, need to avoid it. But it is a lot more serious than that, Jesus is once again calling attention to a huge problem, one that has the potential of influencing every Christian. The warning is given to every believer, perhaps more valid today than at any other time since Jesus arose from the dead. In a day and age where churches are divided into several denominations and a large variety of theologies, old and new, are available on bookshelves, and on the internet, we need to realize that they all cannot be professing the truth about God’s Word. All Christians need to stop and closely examine their own beliefs. Just because a denomination or theology has been around for a long time (or one that you grew up in believing) does not mean that the interpretation is correct or beneficial to God’s Kingdom. Jesus says here that many will be led astray, and since we cannot relegate what we believe to someone else (like a dead theologian) after we die, we need to make sure that we are not one of those led astray before dying. It is important to remember that the only book that counts for admission to heaven is the Bible. Christians need to study and thoroughly know the Bible.
False teaching not only sharply divides believers, it can also lead to an anti-Christian sentiment. As more of the teachings of the Bible become distorted and compromised, the opposition to the truth becomes stronger. Many churches and denominations have already succumbed to worldly pressure and have changed many aspects of their statements of faith. This creates even greater intimidation against Christians not willing to compromise. In addition, by not agreeing on interpretation, those outside Christianity become even more convinced that Christianity is wrong (why believe something that those that follow cannot agree).
24:12 And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
The Greek word ‘anomian’[19], translated here as ‘lawlessness’ is not implying the absence of any law, it refers to the violation of the law, in context, God’s Law, making it a synonym for sin. As sinning against God increases, the love of many will grow colder. The Greek word for love is ‘agapē’,[20] the highest form of true love, often called “unconditional love,” a love found in a parent’s love for a child, or God’s love for humanity.[21] As sin increases, the love for God and the desire to obey and seek forgiveness decreases. The apostle Paul also wrote about this erosion of godliness: “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth. Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith. But they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all, as was that of those two men.” (2 Timothy 3:1-9, see also Considerations below) Jesus says that those who endure, being those that continue to follow God and not the world, will be saved.
24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
Jesus then explains that the gospel message will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony (Greek ‘martyrion’,[22] to witness, proof) to all nations. The entire world will hear the gospel, sadly that does not mean that everyone will accept the free offer of salvation. The primary mission for all Christians is to assist in achieving that goal (that of proclaiming the gospel to the world, see Matthew 28:18-20). The apostle Peter offers an interesting insight, “What sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God.” (2 Peter 3:11b-12a) Which raises the question, can effective evangelism hasten the end? Possibly, although regardless of the arrival date coming sooner or later, it will always be in God’s timing. We also know that the apostle Paul wrote that Israel’s partial hardening will remain “until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in” (see Romans 11:25), referring to a time when all those who are going to believe in Jesus have indeed accepted His salvation (only God knows who and how many). Once the gospel has been fully proclaimed then the end will come.
Considerations
The Olivet Discourse is often aligned with other prophecies in the Bible, most notably with the book of Revelation. However, not all ‘alignments’ are the same. Diligent study is required to review each account, and like all Bible studies, one should never blindly accept prophetic timelines without seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
This question undoubtedly has been asked every time there is a devastating disaster, an outbreak of a disease or a major war. History records that through the years many believers have sought the Lord’s return in prayer when faced with dire circumstances. Even many Christian commentators have written about the nearing of the end, some even had the audacity to set a date (we will see later in this chapter that only God knows the date and time, see verse 36). Can we discern from what Jesus told His disciples about the signs or from anywhere else in Scripture to accurately answer that question? Yes and no!
If we were to make a list of all the prophetic signs from the Bible that pertain to the period just before the end times, the list would be extensive. While many of those signs could have been considered to have been fulfilled or had already occurred, such as a world war, a series of major earthquakes, or a pandemic, the end has still not arrived. So why does that question seem to be on everyone’s mind today, including those who are not Christians? Perhaps the best way to answer would be to use an illustration. What is the difference between a bullet and a shotgun shell? When a bullet is fired from a gun only one projectile is released, but when a shotgun shell is fired from a shotgun, several projectiles are released. One might say that today God’s Word is firing, like a shotgun, with many of those prophetic signs coming true simultaneously. So why the yes and no answer? The Bible was given to us by God to reveal many things to us including God’s character. One very important aspect of His character is His perseverance and long suffering. We should remember the promise He gave King Solomon: “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14) If those that recognize the signs for what they are and seek forgiveness, then the end times may occur later rather than sooner. Even though God is sovereign, He is always faithful and true to His Word.
When we examine the prophetic signs in light of today’s moral condition and thinking, we can certainly see why so many believe that we are living in the end times. For example, when we closely review the words Paul wrote to his protégé Timothy (see text above) we can certainly see a snapshot of what could easily be a description of people in many places around the world today. Here is a quick overview:
Lovers of selves. Taking selfies is only one indicator of today’s narcissism. Our self-obsessed culture seeks pleasure, personal wealth, and status above all other pursuits.
Lovers of money. Similar to above, the focus today is not only to make it a priority to seek a good-paying job but also one that offers a lot of money without much effort.
Proud. Pride is one of the more insidious sins, often considered the oldest sin against God since Satan, before tempting Eve, fell and revolted against God as a result of his pride. We read “Because your heart is proud, and you have said, ‘I am a god…” (Ezekiel 28:2, God speaking through the prince of Tyre to Satan). Much pride is expressed by those that willfully disobey God, as pride causes one to take their eyes off God. This “first sin” is still an effective tool in Satan’s arsenal against God.
Arrogant. Thinking one has all the answers. Today science is thought to have replaced the need for God. For example, believing the myth of evolution instead of the truth of creation.
Abusive. Combining the attributes of being lovers of self, pride, and arrogance together can often create a less-than-loving abusive attitude towards others.
Disobedient to their parents. Children being disrespectful to their parents and challenging their authority. God set up the family structure, Satan and the world want to destroy it.
Ungrateful. Many today believe they are entitled and expect what they desire to be freely given without delay.
Unholy. Translated from the Greek ‘anosioi’,[23] meaning to have no regard of duty to God, being ungodly. Sadly, this warning applies to ‘Christians’ was well as unbelievers. To some ‘Christians’ that title only applies to them on Sunday morning.
Heartless. Paul uses the Greek ‘astorgoi’,[24] which refers to being without family love. Essentially the opposite of being kind. Promoting hostility and hate towards others, an unwillingness to listen and accept other opinions. Lately rage, riots, and unrest seem to be commonplace.
Unappeasable. When you combine several behaviors like pride, arrogance, being abusive, being ungrateful, being unholy, and heartless together, one can easily become unappeasable. Nothing short of getting what they demand is enough, no compromises allowed.
Slanderous. Publicly saying something untrue about someone is considered slander. However, in today’s world it is difficult to sort out the truth from the fake news.
Without self-control. Anyone can occasionally lose their temper or fall to temptation, but Paul is using the Greek ‘akrateis’,[25] found only this once in Scripture, referring to the inability to control oneself, for example being incontinent. A reference to uncontrollable lusts and actions, such as violence, mayhem, and vandalism, those of which are often seen during riots and protests.
Brutal. Being harsh, perhaps even cruel in behavior.
Not loving good. The phrase is translated from the Greek ‘aphilagathoi’[26] which refers to a person that can be unfriendly, hostile, or one who may express pity but does not do anything to relieve the suffering of others. In modern terms, one might call this malady apathy, an attitude of indifference towards those unimportant or perhaps guilty of just being different.
Treacherous. One who is guilty of betrayal or deception, a traitor. Betrayal can also be internalized such as a betrayal of one’s country, ethics, upbringing, education, or even morals. Jesus warned about the apostasy of supposed believers when He said, “many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another.” (Matthew 24:10)
Reckless. Racing forward without regard. A behavior that is harmful to everyone. When someone becomes no longer concerned about any ramifications resulting from their actions, they are essentially out of control and cannot be controlled. If the fear of caring about what is going to happen to them (life-threatening or potential punishment) or to others (any harm done) is no longer part of one’s thinking process before doing something, that person is extremely dangerous.
Swollen with conceit. Another verb referring to being prideful. The Greek ‘tetphōmenoi’[27] means to be inflated with pride, the word is derived from the word for smoke (‘typhos’), essentially one being full of smoke.
Lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. This list of Paul’s began with “lovers of self,” now he focuses on what might be one of the key distractions that prevents someone from seeking God, the pursuit of pleasure. For several decades now our youth have been encouraged to do anything that brings them pleasure without regard to authority, including, and perhaps especially, God.
Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Like the Pharisees who outwardly looked pious but were indeed self-centered and corrupt, Paul exposes the reality that frauds also exist in Christianity. People that present themselves as a Christian, perhaps someone who is seen going to church or praying, but have denied or rejected God and His offer of salvation. Sadly, they may not be aware of this condition, remember Matthew 7:21-23, the scariest words in the Bible, "I never knew you.” Many churches today focus on worship protocols, rituals, and upholding traditions instead of teaching the Word of God and equipping believers (see Ephesians 4:11-16).
Creep into households and capture weak women, burdened in sins and led astray by various passions. This verse is often misunderstood due to the Greek ‘aichmalōtizontes’,[28] translated here as ‘capture’, which can mean being held prisoner. However, in context it is referring to being captivated, not in a physical sense but mentally and emotionally. Paul is noting that there will be some that will enter homes and captivate weak women (Greek ‘gynaikaria’[29] referring to a foolish or immature woman) who are weighed down by sins that will be led astray by false teachers who promote wrongful and possibly a lascivious lifestyle. It is important to note that falling for false doctrine is not limited to women. Paul is warning that there will be a rise of cult-like groups in the end times, some may even call themselves churches.
Always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth. Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupt in mind and disqualified regarding the faith. This statement concludes Paul’s insight regarding the behavior and thinking of people approaching the end times. Here Paul clearly identifies the central theme and cause of the corruption found in each of the above negative attributes, HAVING NO TRUTH! They may be studying hard, going to school, seeking but never finding the truth. That is not surprising as institutions today teach liberal ideas that are contrary to the truth. Paul contrasts the efforts made by the Pharaoh’s magicians to counter Moses’ presentations of God’s power to how much energy people will expend to banish and expel the truth near the end. Their minds being corrupt prevent them from seeing the truth about Jesus and salvation. Many today actively oppose the teaching of the Bible and seek to block anyone or any effort that attempts to promote any thinking alternate to theirs, including tactics such as creating distractions, using censorship, and telling lies. However, Paul does leave this discussion on a high note, “But they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all, as was that of those two men.” (verse 9)
Another prophetic view of the end times can be found in 2 Peter chapter 3. Here is an excerpt, “Scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. They will say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.” (verses 3b-4) Similar to Paul’s warning about those not being able to recognize the truth, Peter says they will mock the Word of God and follow their own lusts and desires. He also points out that they will ask why Jesus hasn’t returned yet and make the proclamation that nothing has ever changed since creation. Not only are they ignoring several significant nonlinearities in history (such as the fall of man that resulted in a curse upon all of creation and the worldwide flood), it also allows for the erroneous thinking that claims, “the present is the key to the past.” A concept that affects the science of radiological decay rates, erosion rates, and other long-term processes, which then provides the framework for additional flawed reasoning such as evolution and the age of the earth.
Both Paul’s and Peter’s view of the “Last Days” appear to have accurately describe modern behavior and thinking of today. None of the prophecies listed here were specific, they only addressed the conditions and status of societal thinking near the end of time. To compare or match specific prophecies to past, present, and future events would entail creating a detailed breakdown requiring a separate book of its own. If we are in the end times, Christians should be excited! After all, God chose them to help usher in a long-awaited and heavily-prophesied period.
The Role of a Christian During the Last Days
Paul follows his brief insight of the end times with a "pep talk" addressed to Timothy, words that apply to every Christian today: "You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me. Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:10-17) Perhaps not the words of encouragement you were hoping to read as persecution for believers is inevitable. Note, however, how those that are evil and impostors will only get worse, both deceiving and being deceived. They will continue to believe lies and reject the truth. But Paul reassures Timothy, and all readers, that God's Word is true and can be used to teach, convict, correct, and train others leading to salvation.
God will not to change His commission in the end times (see Matthew 28:18-20). Christians are to continue doing what He has called them to, namely leading people to Jesus. They should always keep their eyes on Jesus regardless of what is going on around them and that is especially true during difficult or unusual times. It is during these times when unbelievers will closely watch believers. By not worrying, panicking, or fleeing, Christians can be a powerful witness for Jesus. Plus, understanding yet-future prophecy allows them to be better prepared to answer questions, sometimes even for other believers (remember 1 Peter 3:15).
The Abomination That Causes Desolation
[Text parallels Mark 13:14-23 and Luke 21:20-24]
24:15 “So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand),
This segment of the Olivet Discourse may be one of the more controversial. There are four different passages in the book of Daniel that refer to some form of desolation, three of which also refer to an abomination (see Considerations below for breakdown). The first question one might ask is which one is Jesus referring to? And since there have been several “abominations that caused desolation” in history already, the next question would be, did it already occur or is this event still yet-future? We will see that the remaining text in this section appears to be pointing to the end times, a yet-future event.
However, there is a problem with that interpretation, Jesus said that the abomination of desolation will occur in the holy place. Since the holy place refers to a room in the Temple (location of the Golden Lampstand, the Golden Table for the Show Bread, and the Golden Altar of Incense), the Temple must exist. Since the Temple was destroyed in 70 A.D. during the First Jewish-Roman War and has never been rebuilt, the Temple would need to be reconstructed first. However, this passage is not alone alluding to the existence of the Temple during the end times (see Daniel 9:27; 12:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Revelation 11:1-2, note this Temple is not to be confused with the “Millennial Temple” as recorded in Ezekiel). Two of the prophecies regarding an abomination and desolation in Daniel infer that they will occur just before the end (see Daniel 9:27 and 12:11-12), often considered to be references to the same event.
Another curious detail is that Jesus states “when you see,” if this event takes place in the holy place in the Temple located in Jerusalem, how can everyone watch? While this issue may have puzzled teachers and commentators for nearly two thousand years, we see that with the development of technology that simultaneous worldwide viewing of an event is now possible.
It is interesting to note that Jesus interjects with the phrase, “let the reader understand.” He wants all readers to fully comprehend this and the following text. Which leads to the next controversial question, who are the ‘readers’ Jesus is referring to, especially after reviewing the following five verses? As noted before, there will be a significant number of new Christians (see commentary under verses 9-10 above), however the following verses seem to imply Jesus is also referring to the Jews.
24:16 then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 17 Let the one who is on the housetop not go down to take what is in his house, 18 and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. 19 And alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! 20 Pray that your flight may not be in winter or on a Sabbath.
Those that see the abomination of desolation are to immediately leave the area of Judea (the name of the Roman province where Jerusalem was located) and flee to the mountains. To stress the urgency, Jesus says that they are not to stop and collect their belongings before leaving. He also notes that it will be difficult for women who are pregnant and that they are to pray that this event does not occur in the winter when it is cold and much of the vicinity around Israel is impassible. Their prayers are also to ask God that the event does not occur on a Sabbath, something that only a Jew would be concerned about (being restricted from working or traveling any distance). Some note that on the Sabbath some public transportation may not be available, which would apply to nearly everyone in Israel. The book of Revelation also speaks about a time when the Jews are to flee to the wilderness for three and a half years (see Revelation 12:13-17, see also Considerations below).
24:21 For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be. 22 And if those days had not been cut short, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short.
There will be a period of great tribulation that follows the abomination that causes desolation. The last half of the tribulation period is often called the “Great Tribulation,” not only based on Jesus’ expression, “megalē thlipsis,”[30] but also His description that it will be the worst time of anguish mankind has ever faced (see also Daniel 12:1). Coming from the Creator,[31] these words should not be considered an exaggeration, it will indeed be worse than any disaster, any war, or any other period of distress that has ever occurred in the past. The anguish will be so intense that if the days had not been cut short, no human would be able to survive. Jesus then states that those days will be cut short for the benefit of the elect.
Since the word ‘hēmerai’,[32] translated here as ‘days’ can also be defined as a period of time, some interpret that the period of tribulation will be cut short, while others believe the reference is to shortening 24-hour days. Regardless of interpretation, the fact remains that God will supernaturally intervene for the sake of the elect. Bringing us to the next debated issue, who are the elect?[33] The quick answer is that the term can apply to both any remaining believers[34] and to the Jews (see below). The issue should not be made overly complicated, in context it refers to essentially anyone who looks to Jesus for their redemption and is still alive and on earth at the time.
24:23 Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. 24 For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. 25 See, I have told you beforehand. 26 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. 27 For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 28 Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.
Just as Jesus warned in verses four and five, there will be people saying that He has returned before He actually does return. However, these are not deluded men or mentally unstable people making these claims (as many do today), these are false christs and false prophets that are performing signs and wonders. Previously we reviewed the Greek word for signs,[35] most often referring to something out of the ordinary or miraculous. When combined with the Greek ’terata’[36] (‘wonders’), referring to a wonder or omen, the ’signs’ then refer to miracles or some other supernatural activity, although the word is not an exclusive reference to just God’s power. Paul used the word in 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 to refer to Satin’s power: “The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.” Jesus is not referring to magic tricks, He is talking about a supernatural display with evil intentions to mislead and deceive. Many will be led astray, even those who should know better, the elect (see below). Jesus explains that those rumors and lies about His return should be ignored as everyone will know when He returns. Just like how lightning lights the whole sky, His return will be known by all, regardless where they are in the world.
As one might expect, verse 28 is the source of many diverse opinions and interpretations. Since the word ‘aetoi’,[37] translated here as ‘vultures’, can also be translated ‘eagles’ (KJV, NKJV), referring to a bird that preys on dead animals, some believe it represents angels and is used as a metaphor for the Second Coming with the corpse referring to Jesus.[38] However, in context with “the corpse,” the word ‘vultures’ is likely a better interpretation. Jesus just stated that there will be many attempts to deceive and that His return will be seen by all, which will signify the closing of the time that repentance can lead to salvation. Perhaps the vultures are those that have deceived and now wish to prey on the corpses, those who have rejected Jesus.
Considerations
A Breakdown of the Abominations and Desolations in the Book of Daniel
In verse 15 Jesus identifies one of the prophecies found in the book of Daniel as being a sign that will indicate when a period of tribulation will soon begin.[39] He refers to an abomination that will lead to desolation. Since both ‘abomination’ and ‘desolation’ are words that are rarely used by most English-speaking people, we should first explore their meanings.
The English word ‘abomination’ is generally defined as a thing that causes disgust or hatred. In the Old Testament there are several Hebrew words that can be translated as ‘abomination’, each essentially meaning the same as the English word: 1) ‘šě·qěṣ’,[40] a noun that can also be translated as ‘detestable’ or ‘loathsome’, found eleven times in Scripture; 2) ‘šiq·qǎs’,[41] a verb that can also be translated ‘abhorred’ or ‘detest’, seen only seven times; 3) ‘tô·’ēḇā(h)’,[42] a noun, almost always translated as ‘abomination’ or ‘abominable’, found 117 times in the Old Testament; 4) ‘ṯā·’ēḇ’,[43] a verb which can also be translated as ‘abhor’, ‘loathed’, or ‘detest’, found 22 times; and 5) ‘šiq·qûṣ’,[44] a noun that can also be translated as ‘detestable’, in nearly all of this word’s 28 appearances it pertains to the worship of false gods, goddesses or the idols that represent them. In the New Testament the Greek word that is most often translated ‘abomination’ (‘bdelygma’)[45] only appears six times (Matthew 24:15; Mark 13:14; Luke 16:15; Revelation 17:4, 5; 21:27). So, why does the Old Testament contain 185 appearances of words that can refer to an abomination (being detestable to God) and the New Testament only six? The quick answer would be “the Law.”
In the first five books of the Old Testament (also known as the Law or ‘Torah’) and in the writings of the prophets, God clearly laid out what was and what was not acceptable behavior. In the law presented to Moses on Mount Sinai, God stipulated not only rules for living (which included things like what to eat, when to be ceremonially clean, what is unacceptable conduct, etc.), but also rules on protocol (including how to become ceremonially clean, how and when to offer various sacrifices, how and when to celebrate festivals and days of rest, etc.) Any behavior or procedure that was contrary to the law would have been considered an abomination to God. However, high on the list of sins that God considers truly detestable would be the worshiping of false gods or any form of idolatry. Remember how the Ten Commandments began, “You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the LORD your God am a jealous God.” (Exodus 20:3-5) God made it clear, “Cursed be the man who makes a carved or cast metal image, an abomination to the LORD, a thing made by the hands of a craftsman, and sets it up in secret.” (Deuteronomy 27:15a, see also Leviticus 26:1; 2 Kings 17:35; Psalm 97:9; Jeremiah 25:6; 35:15)
The English word ‘desolation’ is defined as a state of complete emptiness or destruction. The Hebrew word that is most often translated as ‘desolation’ is ‘šā·mēm’,[46] a verb which also refers to being desolated (made empty) or destroyed, found 89 times in the Old Testament.
In the Bible when the words ‘abomination’ and ‘desolation’ are found together they refer to a sequence of events. The sequence typically begins with some form of transgression by someone, an intentional act against God that is considered an abomination. If that violated a Temple protocol or defiled a sacred object, it would be considered a desecration and effectively shut down Temple operations as required in God’s law. God’s response to the transgression could result in desolation, a removal of people (depopulation) and possibly even destruction.
In Matthew 24:15 Jesus offers several clues to help us determine which prophecy He is referring to. One clue is that it will occur in the “holy place,” the Biblical name for the first room in the interior of the Tabernacle and then later in the Temple. As mentioned before being the location of the golden lampstand, golden table, and the golden altar of incense, a place restricted to priests only. A curtain separated that room from the Most Holy Place which contained the Ark of the Covenant and the Mercy Seat, accessible only by the Chief Priest on the Day of Atonement. The Temple was the location where many abominations occurred in the past (see 2 Kings 21:11-16; 2 Chronicles 28:1-27; 33:1-9; 36:1-21; Jeremiah 7:30-34; 32:26-35; 44:1-30; Ezekiel 5:5-17; 8:1-18). Another clue is that this event will be a desolation reported by Daniel, however, that fact alone doesn’t help narrow down the answer as there are four ‘desolations’ referenced in the book of Daniel.
The first is Daniel 8:12-14, “And a host will be given over to it together with the regular burnt offering because of transgression, and it will throw truth to the ground, and it will act and prosper. Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to the one who spoke, “For how long is the vision concerning the regular burnt offering, the transgression that makes desolate, and the giving over of the sanctuary and host to be trampled underfoot?” And he said to me, “For 2,300 evenings and mornings. Then the sanctuary shall be restored to its rightful state.” (emphasis added) Any problem regarding sacrifices could be considered unacceptable to God. Here the text is referring to any regularly scheduled event, an ongoing occurrence (Hebrew word ‘tā·mîḏ’)[47] which could include any one of the daily burnt offerings, the weekly placement of show bread, etc. This prophecy is believed to have been fulfilled shortly after the fall of Alexander the Great’s empire.
After Alexander’s death, the Greek Empire was divided and controlled by four of his ‘generals’. Seleucus ruled Syria and Eastern Asia Minor; Ptolemy ruled Egypt; Lysimachus ruled Thrace and Western Asia Minor (essentially Turkey); and Cassander ruled Macedonia and Greece. Each were hungry for more land, especially the Seleucid and Ptolemaic dynasties. In 171 B.C. Antiochus the Fourth came into power in the Seleucid empire, he was a harsh, cruel and often savage ruler. Just as Daniel prophesied, “Then the king of the south shall be strong, but one of his princes shall be stronger than he and shall rule, and his authority shall be a great authority.” (Daniel 11:5) He referred to himself as “Antiochus Theos Epiphanes,” (meaning “Antiochus the visible god”) or more commonly, Antiochus Epiphanes. He was also known by his detractors as “Epimanes” or “madman.” Considered by most scholars to be a ‘type’ (model) of the coming ‘antichrist’. He strongly desired to unite his land with a common language and culture, including religion.
As expected, the Jews strongly opposed his efforts to change their beliefs. After many conflicts and an embarrassing withdrawal from a war in Egypt, in 168 B.C., Antiochus focused his attention on the Temple in Jerusalem, where he stole many items, erected a statue of Zeus on the bronze altar and later that year, on Zeus’ birthday (December 25th), sacrificed a pig on the altar. Understandably, this was unacceptable to most Jews, which sparked a revolt that did not go well for the Jews.[48] The indignation of how people were treated brought rise to another revolt lead by the great-grandson of a priest by the name of Mattathias and, after dying a year later, the leadership was passed down to his son Judah, who was also known as the Maccabee (believed to be a derivation of the Hebrew word for ‘hammer’). For three years the revolt continued but the group known as the Maccabees were finally victorious.
When they repaired the Temple and removed the idol of Zeus (which interestingly had the face of Antiochus) from the altar, they wanted to rededicate the Temple on the same date in which it was desecrated three years before. But they could only find one days’ worth of consecrated oil for the Temple’s Menorah (lamp stand). When used, the oil miraculously lasted eight days, long enough for a new supply of consecrated oil to be produced. It became a tradition to celebrate the feast of dedication (Hanukkah) for eight days. The festival is also known as the Festival of Lights.[49]
The second use of desolation is found in the section known as Daniel’s 70 Weeks[50] considered by many to be the central key prophecy in the entire Old Testament. Daniel 9:24-27 reads: “Seventy weeks are decreed about your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to put an end to sin, and to atone for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal both vision and prophet, and to anoint a most holy place. Know therefore and understand that from the going out of the word to restore and build Jerusalem to the coming of an anointed one, a prince, there shall be seven weeks. Then for sixty-two weeks it shall be built again with squares and moat, but in a troubled time. And after the sixty-two weeks, an anointed one shall be cut off and shall have nothing. And the people of the prince who is to come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. Its end shall come with a flood, and to the end there shall be war. Desolations are decreed. And he shall make a strong covenant with many for one week, and for half of the week he shall put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate, until the decreed end is poured out on the desolator.” (emphasis added) At this time someone (typically believed to be the “Antichrist”) will shut down the Temple operations (ending all sacrifices and offerings) for half of a week (weeks of years, meaning three and a half years).
Daniel’s Seventy Weeks is another source of controversy and argument. The events referenced in the first 69 weeks of years appear to align with events in history.[51] It is the interpretation of the 70th week that draws most of the attention and debate. Based on context and harmonization with other Biblical prophecies, it is believed that there is a gap between the last year of the 69th week of years and the beginning of the 70th week of years (a seven-year period). The text does not define the length of time between the 69th and 70th week, just that there will be a covenant (thought by most to be a “peace treaty” between the “world government” and the Jews) that marks the end of the gap and will mark the beginning of the 70th week. The covenant will then be broken three and a half years later when the abomination, the ceasing of sacrifices and offerings, which then makes desolate. Based on context and history it appears that the 70th week has not yet occurred, pointing to a yet-future event. Preterists, however, disagree with this interpretation as they believe this passage was fulfilled during the First Jewish-Roman War.
The third passage that refers to a desolation is Daniel 11:30-32: “For ships of Kittim shall come against him, and he shall be afraid and withdraw, and shall turn back and be enraged and take action against the holy covenant. He shall turn back and pay attention to those who forsake the holy covenant. Forces from him shall appear and profane the temple and fortress, and shall take away the regular burnt offering. And they shall set up the abomination that makes desolate. He shall seduce with flattery those who violate the covenant, but the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action.” (emphasis added) Daniel chapter eleven reads like a historical account of the events that took place in the time period between Malachi and Matthew. Due to the precision of the detail’s given, many have attempted to discredit the book of Daniel by saying it was too accurate for a prophecy. But this record of the intertestamental period was written by Daniel several hundred years earlier. Many believe that Daniel 11:30-32 indirectly records the fulfillment of Daniel 8:12-14 (the first desolation, see above).
The fourth reference to desolation is Daniel 12:9-13: “He said, “Go your way, Daniel, for the words are shut up and sealed until the time of the end. Many shall purify themselves and make themselves white and be refined, but the wicked shall act wickedly. And none of the wicked shall understand, but those who are wise shall understand. And from the time that the regular burnt offering is taken away and the bomination that makes desolate is set up, there shall be 1,290 days. Blessed is he who waits and arrives at the 1,335 days. But go your way till the end. And you shall rest and shall stand in your allotted place at the end of the days.” (emphasis added) The context points to being near the end, offering detail to Daniel 9:27. Many point out that this prophecy mirrors the events recorded in Revelation 13:11-15.
Since two of the desolations referenced appear to have been fulfilled by Antiochus Epiphanes before Christ, the abomination of desolation Jesus seems to be referring to an event yet to occur.
Verse 24 presents an interesting idea, the possibility of leading the elect astray. Regardless of one’s beliefs regarding predestination, the use of the term ‘eklektos’[52] (‘elect’) in the New Testament is a synonym for believers. Can believers be lead astray? Regarding their own salvation (being the definition of being a believer), no, however regarding being rendered ineffective as a follower of Jesus, yes. That is why Bible study is so critical for every Christian.[53]
Heading to Petra? An Alternate Viewpoint - Part One
Many interpret Matthew 24:9-20 not only as an overview of the Great Tribulation, but also as a special message to believing Jews living in Israel. When compared with the breakdown of the first and second half of the Tribulation period as depicted and interpreted by some in the book of Revelation, combined with Paul’s second letter to the church in Thessalonica, Matthew’s account of Jesus’ overview appears to reveal a different story.
Referring to the first half of the Tribulation, verses 9-10 states that there will be intense persecution of the Jews (see Revelation 6:9-11) due to the attempt to create a one-world religious system that is both anti-Christian and anti-Judaism (see Revelation 17:1-6). Verse 11 points to the existence of false prophets, especially one that will promote the ‘Antichrist’ as a savior (see also Zechariah 13:2-6). There will also be a rise in sin, as evil is no longer restrained (see verse 12, see also 2 Thessalonians 2:6-7). Matthew notes that the Jews who survive to the end of the Tribulation will indeed be saved (see verse 13). In verse 14 Matthew adds that the world will hear the gospel message, believed to be carried out by 144,000 Jews, and as a result many will be saved (see Revelation 7:1-17).
The second half of the Tribulation period will begin immediately after the abomination of desolation occurs (see verse 15). The abomination will begin when the ‘Antichrist’ commandeers the Temple and declares himself as a god (see 2 Thessalonians 2:3-10) followed by the ‘False Prophet’ setting up an image of the Antichrist in the Temple (see Daniel 12:11; Revelation 13:11-15). This would be a signal to the Jews to leave Israel quickly (see verses 16-20, see also Revelation 12:13-17). Jesus adds that this trek out of town will not be easy, one is to pray that the event will not take place during the winter or on a Sabbath. Verse 21 is interpreted as to refer to a worldwide outbreak of anti-Semitism as Satan attempts to annihilate all Jews. An effort thwarted by God which will allow a remnant of the Jews to survive (see verse 22). A false messiah and a counterfeit ‘son’ (namely the Antichrist) will rise up in power (see verse 23). Many false signs and wonders will lead to a worldwide deception (see 2 Thessalonians 2:8-10; Revelation 13:11-15) and many will believe that the Messiah had secretly returned (see verses 25-27).
The ‘corpse’ (dead body) in verse 28 is interpreted as being the nation of Israel and the ‘vultures’ as being the Gentile nations gathering together to go after Israel. Using the prophecy found in Micah 2:12 “I will surely assemble all of you, O Jacob; I will gather the remnant of Israel; I will set them together like sheep in a fold, like a flock in its pasture, a noisy multitude of men.” The place where the Jews flee to and experience the return of Jesus is believed to be Petra. The Hebrew word ‘bǒṣ·rā(h)’[54] is only this one time in the Old Testament translated as ‘fold’, all other eight appearances it is translated as ‘Bozrah’, a mountainous city in Edom believed by some to be Petra (possibly due to a reference in the Latin Vulgate). Bozrah, however, is mentioned several times as a location of several judgments (see Isaiah 34:6; 63:1; Jeremiah 49:13, 22; Amos 1:12).
The Second Coming of Jesus
[Text parallels Mark 13:24-27 and Luke 21:25-27]
24:29 “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 30 Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31 And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
Jesus will return immediately after the period of tribulation is finished. There will be no mistake as to His arrival. The sun and moon will stop shinning and the stars will fall from the sky.[55] Plus, the powers of heaven will be shaken. The Greek word ‘saleuthēsontai’[56] literally means to put something in a shaking, waving, or rocking motion. It is often used figuratively as the author of the book of Hebrews used it, which also aids in understanding the use of the word here in the Olivet Discourse. “At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” This phrase, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of things that are shaken—that is, things that have been made—in order that the things that cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.” (Hebrews 12:26-29)
A sign representing Jesus will appear in the sky, although not described here (see Daniel 7:13), the sign will be recognized by various people groups on earth that Jesus will soon arrive and the time for repentance is over and judgment will begin soon, being the cause for mourning (the sight of Jesus may be the sign, see also Revelation 1:7). They will then see Jesus coming out of the clouds with power and great glory, undoubtedly a spectacular vision, perhaps like nothing ever seen before.
Jesus will send out His angels with a loud trumpet call to gather His elect. There are several interpretations regarding the location where the angels are to gather the elect from. The most popular viewpoint is that the angels gathered the elect that were saved (those who accepted Jesus as their Savior) during the Tribulation and were still alive on earth.
Considerations
Trumpets and the sound from trumpets play a major role in God’s plan for humanity. In the Old Testament alone there are well over 100 references to trumpets and their sounds. Trumpets were to be blown when the people of Israel went into battle, serving as both an alarm for the Israelites to prepare and engage in war, but also for them to be reminded that they are not alone. Trumpets were also to be used to celebrate joyous days, including the seven appointed feasts (one of the feasts is known as the Feast of Trumpets) and they were to be blown when any burnt offering or peace offering was made. Plus, there are many trumpet soundings referred to in end times prophecy including the seven trumpet judgments in the book of Revelation (see Revelation 8:6-11:19) and the “Last Trumpet” (see Isaiah 27:13; Zechariah 9:14; 1 Corinthians 15:52; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
Alternate Viewpoint - Part Two
The Jews finally recognize that Jesus is the Messiah and mourn (verse 30) understanding that if they had recognized Him years ago during His ministry on earth they could have avoided a lot of suffering through the years. The regathering of the Jews begins after Jesus returns. The angels were sent out to search the world for every Jew and bring them back to Israel (see Isaiah 27:12-13).
The Lesson of the Fig Tree
[Text parallels Mark 13:28-31 and Luke 21:28-33]
24:32 “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. 33 So also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the very gates.
Jesus employs the life cycle of a fig tree in a lesson. When leaves begin to show on the branches you know that summer is near. In the same way when one observes the signs described in this discourse (verses 9-31), they will know that Jesus’ return is imminent.
24:34 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
Jesus adds that “this generation will not pass away until all these things take place.” Even though Jesus clearly explains in the following passage (verses 36-44) that no one will know when these events will take place, many people attempt to ‘analyze’ the meaning of ‘this generation’ in order to determine a time frame, thus creating another debate within Christendom. The Greek word ‘houtos’[57] is a common demonstrative pronoun in the New Testament (appearing 478 times) and is almost always translated as ‘this’ (can also be translated as ‘that’). However, it can refer to something preceding, introduce something that follows, point to something present or be added just for emphasis. The word that is translated as ’generation’, Greek ‘genea’[58], refers to a circle or space of time which became associated with a genealogical line of ancestors or descendants, almost always translated as ‘generation’ (although that depends on the Bible version). The debate centers around which generation Jesus is talking about. Is he talking about the generation that will be watching the events He spoke about unfold, or is He talking about the generation of His audience? Based on the context of the verse and the before-mentioned lesson of the fig tree, the generation Jesus is referring to would be the people in the future. But the debate doesn’t end there, some like to attach an actual time frame to the meaning of generation by exploring generational time periods elsewhere in the Bible. This is one of the drawbacks in studying prophecy. A person can easily explore what they perceive as “hidden truths” in the Bible and become so intently focused on finding them that they forget about following Jesus and ignore His commission (see Matthew 28:18-20). The message Jesus is conveying is that these events He has been talking about will not be spaced out throughout history but will occur in a short period of time once started.
Jesus then explains the eternal nature of His Word, as heaven and earth will pass away but His words will never expire nor will they ever be outdated. Since the Greek ‘ouranos’[59] can also refer to the sky or space (where heavenly bodies like planets and stars reside),[60] many interpret Jesus’ comment about heaven passing away being a reference to space (the universe), not the heaven promised to all believers. However, it is interesting to note what the apostle John wrote describing a new heaven he saw in a vision recorded in the book of Revelation: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:1-4)
Considerations
Many interpret that since Jesus referred to a specific type of tree that it the “Fig Tree” refers to the nation of Israel. Others have even interpreted the word ‘branch’ to be a reference to the Messiah.[61] Both interpretations seemingly ignore the message Jesus intended. The illustration likely could have employed any tree that begins to sprout before summer. Jesus may have used the example of a fig tree due to its popularity and importance to the Jews (see Genesis 3:7; Numbers 13:23; 1 Kings 4:25; Proverbs 27:18; Jeremiah 24:1-3; Zechariah 3:10, also highly touted in the Talmud, “How fine are these figs! Praised be He who created them.”)[62]
No One Knows the Day or Hour
[Verses 36-43 parallels Mark 13:32-37 and Luke 21:33-36]
24:36 “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.
Jesus now answers the original question, “Tell us when will these things be?” (see verse three, see also Mark 13:4; Luke 21:7). He told them what to look for but had not yet told them when. As mentioned before[63] many try to establish a date or attempt to narrow down the time frame regarding the events of this chapter, but Jesus makes it very clear, no one knows when. To help clarify the answer to His disciples and any reader, Jesus makes a curious statement to support the fact that no one knows: “Not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” This raises a few questions, such as does that mean that there are things that God the Father knows that God the Son does not know? Does Jesus know when He will come back? This is what Jesus said, so it appears to be true, at least at that time. However, later in the book of Acts we read in response to another question regarding the restoration of Israel asked just before His ascension, Jesus said, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:7b-8) His response helps us understand two very important facts: 1) God the Father sets the ‘schedule’ by His own authority. Which then could mean, regarding His return by saying “nor the Son” in verse 36, that Jesus may be simply acknowledging that the date and time is ‘fixed’ by His Father’s authority; and 2) Jesus desires believers to be engaged in following Him and being prepared instead of date-setting or being occupied by any other effort that hinders or stops that engagement (being witnesses).
24:37 For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 38 For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, 39 and they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.
Jesus then compares the coming end times with another period of time when the people of the world ignored warnings from God just before He rendered judgment and destroyed them. During the “Days of Noah,” the time prior to the worldwide flood, life went on without any concern regarding the obedience to God. The people continued to eat, drink and even get married up until the day Noah entered the ark. They did not see the flood was coming until it was too late. Jesus warns that His return will also surprise many.
Luke reports an encounter with the Pharisees that is not recorded in the other gospel accounts. They ask Jesus, “when the kingdom of God would come” (Luke 17:20b), much of His reply parallels, and often adds detail to, this section of the Olivet Discourse. In answering the Pharisees, Jesus includes the history of the judgment of Sodom: “Likewise, just as it was in the days of Lot—they were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building, but on the day when Lot went out from Sodom, fire and sulfur rained from heaven and destroyed them all—so will it be on the day when the Son of Man is revealed. On that day, let the one who is on the housetop, with his goods in the house, not come down to take them away, and likewise let the one who is in the field not turn back. Remember Lot’s wife. Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it.” (Luke 17:28-33)
Jesus uses the examples of Noah’s flood and the destruction of Sodom to point out the necessity to always be prepared for His return.
24:40 Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left. 41 Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one left. 42 Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. 43 But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
Continuing the theme of preparedness, Jesus notes that prior to the events He spoke about, He will take believers from wherever they are before the period of tribulation begins. He uses the examples of two men working in the field, one will be taken and the other left behind (non-believer). Two women grinding grain at the mill, one will be taken and the other remains. Jesus is trying to convey that no one will know when He will return so everyone should always be prepared.
Jesus further illustrates, if a homeowner knew what time of the night a burglar would be coming, they could stay awake and stop the burglar from breaking in. If people knew when Jesus was coming back, human nature being what it is, they would do whatever pleased themselves up to the time they knew He would be back. Christians must always be prepared for the imminent arrival of Jesus.
The event Jesus used as examples with individuals being taken would be the Rapture.[64] In Luke’s account of the Pharisees asking when the kingdom of God would come (continuation of same passage above), Jesus adds a third group: “I tell you, in that night there will be two in one bed. One will be taken and the other left. There will be two women grinding together. One will be taken and the other left.” (Luke 17:34-35) With the inclusion of the night scenario we can see that this event will likely take place worldwide simultaneously. One is taken at night from their bed, another taken in the morning (the time women of that day did the grinding of grain), and one taken from the field during the day.
24:45 “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? 46 Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. 47 Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. 48 But if that wicked servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed,’ 49 and begins to beat his fellow servants and eats and drinks with drunkards, 50 the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know 51 and will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Jesus asks who then is the faithful and wise servant? Referring to those that follow Him, Jesus relates the concept of being a household servant to that of a believer taking on the responsibility of doing the work of God’s kingdom while Jesus is away. When He returns and finds His servants doing His work they will be blessed and placed in authority over all His possessions (see the Parable of the Talents, Matthew 25:14-30). But if they are found behaving ungodly, that phony servant will be cut into pieces,[65] casted out with other hypocrites into hell where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.[66] Jesus acknowledges that there will be some who claim to be Christians but knowing that Jesus will be gone for a while they will poorly treat others, party and carouse, all while avoiding any effort to follow Jesus. These fake believers truly are hypocrites and will be sent to hell with all of the other hypocrites. Jesus again points out that His return will be unexpected. Being a Christian is not like a garment that you put on and take off. A follower of Jesus is a changed being (see 2 Corinthians 5:17), a believer to the core, one might even say down to their DNA.
Considerations
Many believe that when Jesus was describing the removal of people from bed, from the grinding wheel, or from the field, that they were being removed to be judged and punished. While that concept aligns with the theme of being prepared, it does not “fit in” with anything else in Biblical eschatology. According to both Old Testament and New Testament end-time prophecies, all judgments and resulting punishments occur on earth. The primary reason many choose this explanation is to maintain an Amillennial, Preteristic or post-Tribulational (or any combination thereof) viewpoint.
If the word ‘rapture’ does not appear in English Bibles[67], why do some believe in this phenomenon? What does Scripture say about this process?
“Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed.” 1 Corinthians 15:51-52
“But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore encourage one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
Why would Jesus want to remove His people? Just as Lot and his family needed to get out of Sodom before God punished and destroyed the city (see Genesis 19:1-29), the Bible also teaches that He wants believers to be taken home before final judgment begins.
“Come, my people, enter your chambers, and shut your doors behind you; hide yourselves for a little while until the fury has passed by. For behold, the LORD is coming out from his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity, and the earth will disclose the blood shed on it, and will no more cover its slain.” (Isaiah 26:20-21)
“At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never has been since there was a nation till that time. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone whose name shall be found written in the book. And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.” (Daniel 12:1-2)
“Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:28)
“But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36)
“Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” (Romans 5:9-11)
“Wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.” (1 Thessalonians 1:10)
“For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him. Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.“ (1 Thessalonians 5:9-11)
"And if he rescued righteous Lot, greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the wicked (for as that righteous man lived among them day after day, he was tormenting his righteous soul over their lawless deeds that he saw and heard); then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment, and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority.” (2 Peter 2:7-10)
“Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth.” (Revelation 3:10)
Most people are aware of the phrase, “the tail wagging the dog” which refers to a situation where something is being controlled or manipulated by a less important entity, usually a group or person that would not normally be in control.
In this application we are looking at the tail being at the ‘rear’ of time, relating to eschatology, the study of end times. It seems that many theologies and Biblical interpretations stem from their analysis and understanding of eschatology first instead of from the beginning of Scripture. For example, if there is no provision (a time period) for yet to be fulfilled prophecy to be fulfilled, then that theology’s framework is either wrong or incomplete. Theologies must be able to incorporate the entirety of Scripture, not just some selected passages while ignoring or discarding the rest.
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[1] See Considerations under Matthew 1:22-25 regarding prophecy.
[2] See also Introduction to Matthew “A Source of Several Discourses.”
[3] Strong’s Hebrew 226.
[4] Strong’s Greek 4592.
[5] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1985). Matthew (Vol. 4, p. 2). Chicago: Moody Press.
[6] See commentary under Matthew 13:33.
[7] Adapted from author’s book, “Everything a Christian Should Know About the Torah A Commentary on the First Five Books of the Bible”
[8] See Appendix 2 "Daniel’s Seventy Weeks."
[9] Strong’s Greek 726.
[10] See Considerations under Matthew 23:37-39 titled “God’s Unconditional Promises and Covenants.”
[11] See Considerations under Matthew 2:7-12 regarding Josephus.
[12] Josephus, F., & Whiston, W. (1987). The works of Josephus: complete and unabridged (pp. 707–708). Peabody: Hendrickson.
[13] Strong’s Greek 2647.
[14] See Considerations under Matthew 23:37-39 titled “Left Desolate, Very Desolate.”
[15] See commentary and Considerations under Matthew 7:15-20 regarding false teaching.
[16] Strong’s Greek 5604.
[17] Strong’s Greek 2347.
[18] See Popular Interpretations in the Introduction to the Olivet Discourse above.
[19] Strong’s Greek 458.
[20] Strong’s Greek 26.
[21] See commentary under Matthew 6:14-15.
[22] Strong’s Greek 3142.
[23] Strong’s Greek 462.
[24] Strong’s Greek 794.
[25] Strong’s Greek 193.
[26] Strong’s Greek 865.
[27] Strong’s Greek 5187.
[28] Strong’s Greek 163.
[29] Strong’s Greek 1133.
[30] Strong’s Greek 3173 and 2347, meaning great affliction, tribulation, calamity, etc.
[31] See Considerations under Matthew 9:35-38 titled “The Meaning of Life.”
[32] Strong’s Greek 2250.
[33] See Considerations under Matthew 22:11-14 and Appendix 2 - Election and Predestination.
[34] If Rapture occurred then any new believers, regarding the Rapture see the Introduction to the Olivet Discourse at the beginning of Matthew chapter 24. See also commentary under Matthew 24:40-44 and Considerations under Matthew 24:45-51 "Rapture Revisited."
[35] See “Looking for Signs” in the Introduction to the Olivett Discourse.
[36] Strong’s Greek 5059.
[37] Strong’s Greek 105.
[38] Allegorical interpretation not likely as the Second Coming is clearly stated in the following three verses.
[39] See Interpretation Variations in the Introduction to the Olivet Discourse for a brief summary of the Tribulation.
[40] Strong’s Hebrew 8263.
[41] Strong’s Hebrew 8262.
[42] Strong’s Hebrew 8441.
[43] Strong’s Hebrew 8581.
[44] Strong’s Hebrew 8251.
[45] Strong’s Greek 946.
[46] Strong’s Hebrew 8074.
[47] Strong’s Hebrew 8548.
[48] See the Apocryphal book 1 Maccabees 1:39; 3:45.
[49] Text regarding Antiochus Epiphanes adapted from author’s book, “Everything a Christian Should Know About the Torah A Commentary on the First Five Books of the Bible”
[50] See Considerations under Matthew 9:27-31 titled “Tell No One.”
[51] See Appendix 2 – Daniel’s Seventy Weeks for breakdown of events and additional information regarding interpretations.
[52] Strong’s Greek 1588, see also Appendix 2 - Election and Predestination.
[53] See Considerations under Matthew 22:29-33 titled “Common Barriers.”
[54] Separate numbers, Strong’s Hebrew 1223 as a sheepfold and 1224 as a city.
[55] See Isaiah 13:6-12, see also commentary under Matthew 3:13-17 regarding the word ‘heaven’.
[56] Strong’s Greek 4531.
[57] Strong’s Greek 3778.
[58] Strong’s Greek 1074.
[59] Strong’s Greek 3772.
[60] See commentary under Matthew 3:13-17.
[61] See Considerations under Matthew 2:19-23 “Prophetic Text Overview No. 5.
[62] Neusner, J. (2011). The Babylonian Talmud: A Translation and Commentary (Vol. 1, p. 272). Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers.
[63] See Introduction to the Olivet Discourse under “Controversy” and the commentary under verses 34-35.
[64] See Introduction to the Olivet Discourse and Considerations below regarding the Rapture.
[65] Greek ‘dichotoméō’ (Strong’s Greek 1371) literally means cut in two, referring to a horrific punishment, see 1 Samuel 15:33; 2 Samuel 12:31; Daniel 2:5; 3:29; Hebrews 11:37.
[66] See Considerations under Matthew 8:5-13 regarding "Hell By Any Other Name is Still Hell or Is it?"
[67] See Introduction to the Olivet Discourse.