What is the meaning of Matthew 24:3? While Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives - The Mount of Olives overlooks Jerusalem and the temple Jesus had just foretold would be destroyed (Matthew 24:2). - Throughout Scripture this ridge is linked to decisive messianic events: • Zechariah 14:4—“On that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives.” • Luke 19:37—Triumphal entry. • Acts 1:12—Ascension site, with angels promising “This same Jesus… will come back in the same way” (Acts 1:11). - The setting signals both judgment and hope; Jesus chooses a place already prophetically charged to unveil future realities. the disciples came to Him privately - Mark 13:3 names Peter, James, John, and Andrew—those closest to Him. - In private Jesus often revealed truths hidden from the crowds (Matthew 13:11; John 14:22). - Their approach shows humility and dependence, reminding us that understanding prophecy begins with drawing near to Christ. “Tell us,” they said - The request is earnest; they long for clarity after hearing Jesus’ staggering prediction. - Similar hunger appears in John 16:17–18 when they grapple with His words about departure and return. - God welcomes sincere inquiry; James 1:5 assures, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God.” “when will these things happen - “These things” points to the temple’s destruction—fulfilled literally in A.D. 70 (Luke 21:6, 24). - Jesus later answers with time-markers: wars, famines, earthquakes (Matthew 24:6–8). - Yet He stresses watchfulness over date-setting: “But about that day and hour no one knows” (Matthew 24:36). and what will be the sign of Your coming - “Coming” (parousia) refers to His visible, bodily return in glory (Matthew 24:30). - Cross references: • Acts 1:11—He will return “in the same way”. • 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17—“The Lord Himself will descend from heaven.” • Revelation 19:11–16—Christ appears as conquering King. - The disciples expect concrete indicators; Jesus will describe cosmic signs, worldwide preaching, and unparalleled tribulation (Matthew 24:14, 21, 29). and of the end of the age? - Scripture distinguishes the present evil age from the age to come (Matthew 13:39–40; Hebrews 9:26). - “End” signals culmination, not annihilation: God’s judgment of wickedness and inauguration of the millennial reign leading into the new heaven and earth (Revelation 20–21; 2 Peter 3:10–13). - The disciples link Christ’s return with comprehensive renewal—an expectation affirmed throughout prophecy. summary Matthew 24:3 records a heartfelt, private inquiry that launches the Olivet Discourse. Seated on a hill already steeped in messianic promise, Jesus hears His closest followers ask three interwoven questions: the timing of the temple’s fall, the sign of His triumphant return, and the consummation of the present age. Their request draws from Old Testament expectation and looks ahead to the New Testament revelation of His literal, visible, future coming. Jesus’ ensuing teaching highlights vigilance, fidelity, and hope, urging every believer to live ready for the fulfillment of His unfailing word. |
    |