Matthew 24 is one of the most profound and prophetic chapters in the Gospel, often referred to as the 'Olivet Discourse' because Jesus delivers it on the Mount of Olives. In this chapter, Jesus speaks about the destruction of the temple, signs of the end times, great tribulation, and His second coming. His words serve as both a warning and an encouragement, urging His followers to remain faithful and watchful.
The chapter begins with Jesus leaving the temple, when His disciples point out its magnificent buildings. In response, He gives a shocking prophecy: "Most certainly I tell you, there will not be left here one stone on another, that will not be thrown down." This prophecy foretells the destruction of the Jerusalem temple, which was fulfilled in 70 AD when the Romans destroyed it.
Later, as Jesus sits on the Mount of Olives, His disciples privately ask Him, "Tell us, when will these things be? What is the sign of your coming, and of the end of the age?" Their question is threefold, seeking clarity on the temple's destruction, the signs of His return, and the final end of history.
Jesus begins by warning them to be cautious: "Be careful that no one leads you astray." He explains that many will come in His name, claiming to be the Christ, deceiving many. He describes future turmoil: wars, rumors of wars, famines, plagues, and earthquakes. However, He cautions, "But all these things are the beginning of birth pains." These signs signal that the world is moving toward its climax, but they do not mark the immediate end.
Jesus then speaks of intense persecution that His followers will face. "Then they will deliver you up to oppression and will kill you. You will be hated by all of the nations for my name’s sake." He warns that many will fall away, betray one another, and be led astray by false prophets. Because of lawlessness, love will grow cold, but He assures them that "he who endures to the end will be saved." Importantly, He declares that "this Good News of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come." This signifies that before the final end, the Gospel must reach all people.
Jesus then refers to a specific event: "When, therefore, you see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains." This warning recalls Daniel's prophecy and points to a future moment of great desecration in the temple. Historically, this was partially fulfilled in 70 AD, but it also foreshadows a greater event in the last days.
He warns of a time of unparalleled suffering: "For there will be great suffering, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, nor will ever be." However, He promises that for the sake of the elect, those days will be shortened. Again, He warns against deception, saying that false christs and false prophets will arise, performing great signs and wonders to deceive even the chosen ones. He reassures them that His coming will be unmistakable, saying, "For as the lightning flashes from the east and is seen even to the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man."
Jesus then describes cosmic disturbances that will immediately precede His return: "The sun will be darkened, the moon will not give its light, the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken." Then, "the sign of the Son of Man will be seen in the sky," and all the nations will mourn as they see Him coming on the clouds with power and great glory. He will send His angels with the sound of a great trumpet to gather His elect from all over the earth.
To illustrate the importance of readiness, Jesus gives the Parable of the Fig Tree. Just as the budding of the fig tree signals the coming of summer, so will these signs indicate His return is near. He says, "This generation will not pass away until all these things are accomplished." Many interpret this as referring either to the people of His time witnessing the destruction of the temple or to the ongoing existence of the Jewish people until the final fulfillment of His prophecy.
Jesus then declares, "But no one knows of that day and hour, not even the angels of heaven, but my Father only." He compares His coming to the days of Noah, where people were living normal lives until the flood suddenly came. "So will be the coming of the Son of Man." He warns that two people will be together, one will be taken, and one will be left, emphasizing the suddenness of His return.
He urges His followers to be vigilant: "Watch therefore, for you don’t know in what hour your Lord comes." He compares His return to a thief breaking into a house unexpectedly, warning them to be prepared. He then tells the Parable of the Faithful and Wicked Servant. A faithful servant is ready for his master's return, but a wicked servant, assuming the master is delayed, begins to act recklessly. The master returns unexpectedly and punishes the wicked servant. This parable highlights the danger of complacency and the need for continual faithfulness.
Matthew 24 is a chapter filled with both warnings and hope. Jesus warns of false teachers, tribulation, and the necessity of endurance. He assures His followers that despite suffering, God's kingdom will prevail. His return will be undeniable and glorious. However, the exact timing remains unknown, emphasizing the need for constant watchfulness and faithfulness.
This chapter challenges us to examine how we live in light of Christ’s return. Are we distracted by the cares of this world, or are we remaining faithful? Do we endure trials with steadfast hope, or do we lose heart? The promise of His coming should not fill us with fear but with readiness and anticipation. He has given us the signs, the warnings, and the assurance of His return. Our responsibility is to be watchful, faithful, and active in spreading His message until He comes again.