Temple Destruction and Other Signs 1As Jesus left the temple and was walking away, His disciples came up to Him to point out its buildings. 2“Do you see all these things?” He replied. “Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” 3While Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately. “Tell us,” they said, “when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming and of the end of the age?” 4Jesus answered, “See to it that no one deceives you. 5For many will come in My name, claiming, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. 6You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. These things must happen, but the end is still to come. 7Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8All these are the beginning of birth pains. Witnessing to All Nations 9Then they will deliver you over to be persecuted and killed, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name. 10At that time many will fall away and will betray and hate one another, 11and many false prophets will arise and deceive many. 12Because of the multiplication of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. 13But the one who perseveres to the end will be saved. 14And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. The Abomination of Desolation 15So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination of desolation,’a spoken of by the prophet Daniel (let the reader understand), 16then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 17Let no one on the housetop come down to retrieve anything from his house. 18And let no one in the field return for his cloak. 19How miserable those days will be for pregnant and nursing mothers! 20Pray that your flight will not occur in the winter or on the Sabbath. 21For at that time there will be great tribulation, unseen from the beginning of the world until now, and never to be seen again. 22If those days had not been cut short, nobody would be saved. But for the sake of the elect, those days will be cut short. 23At that time, if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There He is!’ do not believe it. 24For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive even the elect, if that were possible. 25See, I have told you in advance. The Return of the Son of Man 26So if they tell you, ‘There He is, in the wilderness,’ do not go out, or, ‘Here He is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it. 27For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 28Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather. 29Immediately after the tribulation of those days: ‘The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.b’ 30At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven,c and all the tribes of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.d 31And 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 the heavens to the other. The Lesson of the Fig Tree 32Now learn this lessone from the fig tree: As soon as its branches become tender and sprout leaves, you know that summer is near. 33So also, when you see all these things, you will know that He is near,f right at the door. 34Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have happened. 35Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away. Readiness at Any Hour 36No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son,g but only the Father. 37As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be at the coming of the Son of Man. 38For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark. 39And they were oblivious until the flood came and swept them all away. So will it be at the coming of the Son of Man. 40Two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. 41Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. 42Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come. 43But understand this: If the homeowner had known in which watch of the night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. 44For this reason, you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour you do not expect. 45Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of his household, to give the others their food at the proper time? 46Blessed is that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. 47Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. 48But suppose that servant is wicked and says in his heart, ‘My master will be away a long time.’ 49And he begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. 50The master of that servant will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not anticipate. 51Then he will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Footnotes: 15 a See Daniel 9:27, Daniel 11:31, and Daniel 12:11. 29 b Or and the celestial bodies will be shaken; see Isaiah 13:10, Isaiah 34:4, and Joel 2:10. 30 c Or the sky; twice in this verse 30 d See Daniel 7:13–14. 32 e Or this parable 33 f Or it is near 36 g BYZ and TR do not include nor the Son. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Matthew 24 Summary The Return of the Son of ManVerses 1–3 – Leaving the Temple, Questions on the Mount Verses 4–14 – Beginning of Birth Pains Verses 15–28 – Great Tribulation Verses 29–31 – Return of the Son of Man Verses 32–35 – Fig Tree Lesson Verses 36–44 – Unknown Day and Hour Verses 45–51 – Faithful and Unfaithful Servants Matthew 24, often referred to as the "Olivet Discourse," records Jesus' prophetic discourse on the destruction of the Temple, the signs of His second coming, and the end of the age. Jesus underscores the importance of vigilance, warning His followers to stay alert and prepared for His return. Historical Setting and Audience • It is Tuesday of Passion Week, likely AD 30 or 33. The religious leaders have rejected Jesus, and He now turns to private teaching. • The Temple, refurbished by Herod the Great, dazzled with white marble and gold; Jesus’ prediction of its destruction (fulfilled in AD 70 by Rome) shocked His disciples. • The Mount of Olives overlooks Jerusalem—an ideal place for this sweeping prophecy. Archaeological Notes on the Temple’s Destruction • Josephus reports Romans prying apart stones to extract melted gold; the platform stones still visible at the Western Wall show burn marks and toppled remains, confirming “not one stone will be left on another” (v. 2). • First-century coins found under pavement sections date the final Temple courts to only a few years before AD 70—irony underscoring Jesus’ foresight. Timeline Hints within the Chapter 1. Birth pains: ongoing era between His ascension and the abomination. 2. Abomination of desolation: trigger for urgent flight and great distress. 3. Cosmic upheaval and visible return of Christ: immediately after that distress. 4. Gathering of believers: angels sweep across the globe. The flow is sequential; no verses suggest allegory here—Jesus speaks plainly. The Abomination of Desolation • Phrase echoes Daniel 9:27; 11:31; 12:11. • Historical preview: Antiochus IV placed a pagan altar in 167 BC (Dan-like). • Future climax: an end-time leader desecrates a rebuilt or repurposed holy place (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Revelation 13:14-15). Jesus says “let the reader understand,” nudging disciples to revisit Daniel for clarity. Why Flee So Quickly? • Flat-roofed homes allow exit without going inside (v. 17). • Outer cloak serves as bedroll; grabbing it would slow escape (v. 18). • Winter rains and swollen wadis make travel dangerous; Sabbath travel limits further hinder (v. 20). • God trims the length of the tribulation so a remnant survives (v. 22). False Christs and Prophets • First-century: Theudas, Egyptian pseudo-prophet, Bar-Kokhba. • Modern era: various claimants worldwide. • Test: “For as lightning comes from the east and flashes as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man” (v. 27). No private desert or inner-room appearances will qualify. Cosmic Signs • Sun, moon, and stars language mirrors Isaiah 13:10; 34:4; Joel 2:31. • Revelation 6:12-14 describes a parallel scene, linking seals and the return. Gathering of the Elect • “Trumpet call” (v. 31) links with 1 Corinthians 15:52 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. • Four winds picture global reach—no believer overlooked. “This Generation” Explained 1. Could mean the people alive to see the birth pains begin will also see the end. 2. Could refer to the ongoing generation of Israelites, guaranteeing national survival (Jeremiah 31:35-37). Both readings fit the plain sense without denying a future literal return. Lessons from Noah and the Days of Routine • Normal activities—eating, drinking, weddings—mask approaching judgment (Genesis 6-7). • Key idea: suddenness, not carelessness alone. The faithful man prepares despite normal surroundings. Watchfulness and Household Stewardship • Good servant: feeds fellow servants, manages resources until the master appears. • Evil servant: exploits, carouses, assumes delay. Echoes Luke 12:35-48 and 1 Peter 4:7-11—use time and talents to bless others. Links to Other Scriptures • Daniel 7:13-14—Son of Man receives everlasting kingdom (parallels v. 30-31). • Zechariah 12:10—Israel looks on the One they pierced (fulfilled at His return). • Revelation 19—white horse, visible conquest. • 2 Peter 3:10—day of the Lord like a thief, heavens dissolve; matches v. 35’s statement that heaven and earth will pass away. Practical Take-Aways • Stay rooted in truth to avoid deception; weigh every message against Scripture. • Expect hardship yet trust the Lord’s control over timing and duration. • Live in readiness—integrity at work, kindness at home, generosity with resources. • Spread the gospel; global proclamation precedes the end (v. 14). Closing Thought Jesus’ words in Matthew 24 blend fulfilled prophecy (AD 70) with yet-future events, showing His total command over history. “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away” (v. 35). Until that climactic day, followers are called to alertness, faithfulness, and hope. Connections to Additional Scriptures 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12Discusses the man of lawlessness and the events leading up to the Day of the Lord. Revelation 6:1-17 Provides a parallel account of the end times, including the opening of the seals. Daniel 9:24-27 Offers insight into the prophecy of the seventy weeks and the abomination of desolation. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Encourages believers to be alert and sober, living as children of the light. Teaching Points The Signs of the End TimesJesus begins by warning about false messiahs, wars, famines, and earthquakes. See to it that you are not alarmed. These things must happen, but the end is still to come (Matthew 24:6). Persecution and Apostasy Believers will face persecution, and many will fall away from the faith. Then they will deliver you over to be persecuted and killed, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name (Matthew 24:9). The Abomination of Desolation Jesus refers to a specific event that will signal the beginning of great tribulation. So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination of desolation,’ described by the prophet Daniel (Matthew 24:15). The Coming of the Son of Man Jesus describes His return as unmistakable and visible to all. For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man (Matthew 24:27). The Importance of Readiness Jesus emphasizes the need for vigilance and preparedness. Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come (Matthew 24:42). Practical Applications Stay Informed and DiscerningBe aware of the signs of the times and test all teachings against Scripture to avoid deception. Strengthen Your Faith Prepare for potential persecution by deepening your relationship with Christ and standing firm in your faith. Live with Urgency Share the Gospel with others, knowing that the time is short and the return of Christ is imminent. Cultivate Watchfulness Develop a lifestyle of prayer and spiritual alertness, always ready for Christ’s return. People 1. JesusJesus is the central figure in Matthew 24, delivering the Olivet Discourse. He speaks to His disciples about the signs of the end times and His second coming. The Greek name "Ἰησοῦς" (Iēsous) is used, which is derived from the Hebrew name "Yeshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." 2. The Disciples The disciples are the immediate audience of Jesus' discourse. They come to Him privately to ask about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. The Greek term "μαθηταί" (mathētai) refers to learners or followers. 3. False Christs Jesus warns about false Christs who will come in His name, claiming to be the Messiah. The term "ψευδόχριστοι" (pseudokhristoi) is used, meaning false anointed ones or false messiahs. 4. False Prophets Jesus also warns about false prophets who will arise and deceive many. The Greek term "ψευδοπροφῆται" (pseudoprophētai) refers to those who falsely claim to speak on behalf of God. 5. The Elect The elect are those chosen by God, whom Jesus mentions will be gathered from the four winds at His coming. The Greek word "ἐκλεκτοί" (eklektoi) means chosen or selected ones. 6. The Son of Man This is a title Jesus uses for Himself, referring to His role in the end times. The term "υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου" (huios tou anthrōpou) is a messianic title with roots in Daniel 7:13-14. 7. Noah Jesus references Noah in the context of the days leading up to the flood, drawing a parallel to the unexpected nature of His return. The Greek name "Νῶε" (Nōe) is used, corresponding to the Hebrew "Noach." 8. The Faithful and Wise Servant Jesus uses this figure in a parable to illustrate the importance of being watchful and prepared for His return. The Greek terms "πιστός" (pistos) and "φρόνιμος" (phronimos) describe the servant as faithful and prudent. 9. The Wicked Servant In contrast to the faithful servant, the wicked servant is one who is unprepared and acts irresponsibly, illustrating the consequences of neglecting readiness for the Lord's return. The Greek term "κακός" (kakos) means evil or wicked. Places 1. TempleReference: Matthew 24:1-2 Description: Jesus and His disciples were leaving the temple when the disciples pointed out its buildings. Jesus then prophesied the destruction of the temple, saying, "Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." The Greek word for temple here is "ἱερόν" (hieron), referring to the sacred precincts and buildings of the temple complex in Jerusalem. 2. Mount of Olives Reference: Matthew 24:3 Description: Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives when His disciples came to Him privately to ask about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. The Mount of Olives is a ridge located east of Jerusalem, significant in biblical prophecy and eschatology. The Greek term used is "Ὄρος τῶν Ἐλαιῶν" (Oros tōn Elaiōn), meaning the Mount of Olives. Events 1. Destruction of the Temple ForetoldJesus predicts the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem: "Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." (Matthew 24:2). The Greek word for "thrown down" is καταλυθήσεται (kataluthēsetai), indicating complete destruction. 2. Signs of the End of the Age Jesus describes signs that will precede the end times: "For many will come in My name, claiming, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many." (Matthew 24:5). The Greek word for "deceive" is πλανήσουσιν (planēsousin), meaning to lead astray. 3. Wars and Rumors of Wars Jesus warns of conflicts: "You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for these things must happen, but the end is still to come." (Matthew 24:6). The Greek word for "alarmed" is θροεῖσθε (throeisthe), meaning to be troubled or frightened. 4. Famines, Earthquakes, and Pestilences Natural disasters are mentioned: "There will be famines and earthquakes in various places." (Matthew 24:7). The Greek word for "earthquakes" is σεισμοί (seismoi), which can also mean commotions or upheavals. 5. Persecution of Believers Jesus speaks of persecution: "Then they will deliver you over to be persecuted and killed, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name." (Matthew 24:9). The Greek word for "persecuted" is θλίψουσιν (thlipsousin), meaning to oppress or afflict. 6. The Great Apostasy A falling away from faith is predicted: "At that time many will fall away and will betray and hate one another." (Matthew 24:10). The Greek word for "fall away" is σκανδαλισθήσονται (skandalisthēsontai), meaning to stumble or be offended. 7. Increase of Wickedness Lawlessness will abound: "Because of the multiplication of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold." (Matthew 24:12). The Greek word for "wickedness" is ἀνομία (anomia), meaning lawlessness or iniquity. 8. The Gospel Preached to All Nations The global proclamation of the Gospel: "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come." (Matthew 24:14). The Greek word for "nations" is ἔθνεσιν (ethnesin), referring to ethnic groups or peoples. 9. The Abomination of Desolation A significant prophetic event: "So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination of desolation,’ described by the prophet Daniel..." (Matthew 24:15). The Greek word for "abomination" is βδέλυγμα (bdelygma), meaning something detestable. 10. The Great Tribulation A period of unprecedented distress: "For at that time there will be great tribulation, unmatched from the beginning of the world until now, and never to be seen again." (Matthew 24:21). The Greek word for "tribulation" is θλίψις (thlipsis), indicating severe affliction or distress. 11. The Coming of the Son of Man The return of Christ: "Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn..." (Matthew 24:30). The Greek word for "mourn" is κόψονται (kopsontai), meaning to lament or wail. 12. The Gathering of the Elect The gathering of believers: "And He will send out His angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather His elect from the four winds..." (Matthew 24:31). The Greek word for "elect" is ἐκλεκτούς (eklektous), meaning chosen or selected ones. Topics 1. The Destruction of the Temple Foretold (Matthew 24:1-2)Jesus predicts the destruction of the Jerusalem temple, stating, "Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." This prophecy emphasizes the impermanence of earthly structures and foreshadows the events of 70 A.D. 2. Signs of the End Times (Matthew 24:3-14) The disciples ask Jesus about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. Jesus warns of false messiahs, wars, famines, earthquakes, and persecution. He emphasizes endurance and the global proclamation of the gospel: "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come." 3. The Abomination of Desolation (Matthew 24:15-22) Jesus refers to the "abomination of desolation" spoken of by the prophet Daniel, urging those in Judea to flee to the mountains. This passage highlights a time of great tribulation, with a call for urgent action and reliance on God's protection. 4. False Christs and False Prophets (Matthew 24:23-28) Jesus warns against being deceived by false Christs and prophets who will perform great signs and wonders. He instructs His followers not to believe claims of His presence in secret places, emphasizing that His return will be unmistakable: "For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man." 5. The Coming of the Son of Man (Matthew 24:29-31) Jesus describes cosmic disturbances and the visible return of the Son of Man, accompanied by angels and the sound of a trumpet. This event will gather His elect from the four winds, signifying the culmination of history and the fulfillment of God's promises. 6. The Lesson of the Fig Tree (Matthew 24:32-35) Jesus uses the fig tree as a parable to illustrate the discernment of the times. Just as the budding of the fig tree indicates summer is near, so the signs He described indicate His return is imminent: "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away." 7. No One Knows the Day or Hour (Matthew 24:36-44) Jesus emphasizes the unpredictability of His return, comparing it to the days of Noah. He urges vigilance and readiness, as the Son of Man will come at an unexpected hour: "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come." 8. The Faithful and Wise Servant (Matthew 24:45-51) Jesus concludes with a parable about a faithful servant who is rewarded for being watchful and responsible. Conversely, the wicked servant faces judgment for complacency and misconduct. This parable underscores the importance of faithfulness and preparedness in anticipation of the Lord's return. Themes 1. Destruction of the TempleJesus predicts the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple, emphasizing the impermanence of earthly structures: "Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down" (Matthew 24:2). The Greek word for "thrown down" (καταλυθήσεται, kataluthēsetai) implies a complete dismantling. 2. Signs of the End Times Jesus outlines various signs that will precede the end times, including wars, famines, and earthquakes: "For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places" (Matthew 24:7). The Greek term for "nation" (ἔθνος, ethnos) can also mean ethnic groups, indicating widespread conflict. 3. Persecution of Believers Believers will face persecution and hatred for their faith: "Then they will deliver you over to be persecuted and killed, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name" (Matthew 24:9). The Greek word for "persecuted" (θλίψουσιν, thlipsousin) suggests severe oppression. 4. The Great Tribulation A period of unprecedented suffering and tribulation is described: "For at that time there will be great tribulation, unmatched from the beginning of the world until now, and never to be seen again" (Matthew 24:21). The Greek word for "tribulation" (θλῖψις, thlipsis) indicates intense distress. 5. False Prophets and Deception Jesus warns of false prophets and widespread deception: "For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders that would deceive even the elect, if that were possible" (Matthew 24:24). The Greek term for "deceive" (πλανῆσαι, planēsai) means to lead astray. 6. The Coming of the Son of Man The return of Christ is described with cosmic signs and visibility to all: "Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn" (Matthew 24:30). The Greek word for "mourn" (κόψονται, kopsontai) conveys a deep lamentation. 7. The Parable of the Fig Tree Jesus uses the fig tree as a metaphor for recognizing the signs of the times: "When its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near" (Matthew 24:32). The Greek word for "tender" (ἁπαλός, hapalos) suggests readiness and anticipation. 8. The Call to Watchfulness Believers are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for Christ's return: "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come" (Matthew 24:42). The Greek term for "watch" (γρηγορεῖτε, grēgoreite) implies staying awake and alert. 9. The Faithful and Wise Servant Jesus emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and wisdom in service: "Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of his household?" (Matthew 24:45). The Greek word for "faithful" (πιστός, pistos) denotes reliability and trustworthiness. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Matthew 24:34 claim “this generation will not pass away” before these events occur, when nearly two millennia have passed? 4. Is the global disaster described in Matthew 24:21 supported by any record from history or science? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What is the significance of Jesus' prediction about the Temple's destruction? 2. How do the signs of the end of the age affect your understanding of global events? 3. How can we apply Jesus' warning about false Christs and prophets in our context? 4. What does the "abomination of desolation" reveal about the severity of the end-times tribulation? 5. How does Jesus' depiction of His return inspire hope and awe? 6. What lessons can we draw from the Parable of the Fig Tree about recognizing the signs of the times? 7. How can we practice watchfulness in our faith journey as instructed by Jesus? 8. What are some practical ways to apply the call to readiness for Christ's return in our daily lives? 9. How does Jesus' teaching about the end of the age impact your perspective on current world events? 10. How can we discern true from false teachings in light of Jesus' warnings? 11. In what ways does Jesus' discourse on His second coming affect your understanding of biblical prophecy? 12. How does the Parable of the Fig Tree underscore the nearness of Christ's return? 13. How does the unpredictability of Jesus' return challenge us to live faithfully each day? 14. How can we use Jesus' warnings to guide our responses to spiritual deception? 15. How can the promise of Jesus' return encourage us amidst trials and tribulations? 16. How does Jesus' discourse on His second coming deepen your longing for His return? 17. How can we encourage others to stay vigilant and prepared for the Second Coming? 18. What are some ways we can ensure our faith and actions align with Jesus' call for watchfulness? 19. How does the cosmic description of Christ's return shape your understanding of His majesty and power? 20. How can we draw hope from the promise of the gospel being preached to all nations before the end? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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