Mark 13:1-13
Q.1. What prompted Jesus to teach on future events? How can we recognize these days? What will happen before the end? – (Mk.13:1-8)
Herod’s Temple was the third of Israel’s temples. It stood for ninety years. The building was commenced in 20 B.C. and completed in 64 A.D. It was destroyed by the Romans in 70 A.D [Solomon built the first temple, and Zerubbabel the second, after the exile]. This was an impressive building made from marble and gold. It is not surprising that one of the disciples commended its beauty (Mk.13:1). It must have shocked His disciples when Jesus commented – Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone will be left upon another which will not be torn down (Mk.13:2). This comment led into the Olivet prophecy about events which were to unfold in the near and distant future (Mt.24:1-51; Mk.13:1-37; Lk.21:5-36). While resting on the Mount of Olives later, the two sets of brothers – Peter and Andrew, and James and John asked – Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when all these things are going to be fulfilled? (Mk.13:4). This was not the first mention of the coming of the Son of Man (c.f. Lk.12:39-46; 21:10-36). Jesus warned that the Last Days would be recognisable because there would be false teachers with false claims (Mk.13:5-6). As well, there would be an increase in catastrophic events – 7 When you hear of wars and rumours of wars, do not be frightened; those things must take place; but that is not yet the end. 8 For nation will rise up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes in various places; there will also be famines … (Mk.13:7-8 c.f. 2 Pet.3:10-13). Jesus likened the days to a woman in childbirth – These things are merely the beginning of birth pangs (Mk.13:8). He urged His followers to be on the alert and ready at all times.
Q.2. Why did the disciples need to be on guard? What mission were they given? Would it be easy? How would they cope? – (Mk.13:9-13)
Jesus warned His disciples to be on guard because the world will persecute those who bear His name (Mk.13:9). However, His children must stay on mission because – the gospel must first be preached to all the nations … until the time of the Gentiles is fulfilled (Mk.13:10 c.f. Lk.21:24; Rom.11:25). This goal will be opposed even by family members and – You will be hated by all because of My name, but the one who endures to the end, he will be saved (Mk.13:13). Faithfulness will demand perseverance (c.f. Rev.14:12). Jesus promised salvation to those who endure to the end.