| In setting about the task of interpreting Matt24, Mark13, and Luke 21 we need to think historically. Next we have to insist on paying attention to context. Also we can't allow for spiritualizing. But before anything the task of the interpreter is to ask what is the context. The context is the disciples marvelling at the temple, Jesus then answers that not one stone will be left upon another. Later on the mount of Olives the obviously shocked disciples come and ask Jesus, When will these things be? Referring to what Jesus said about the destruction of the temple. Also asking what will be the sign of your coming and the close of this age.? So Jesus' answers are answering these questions, The destruction of the temple, The sign of his coming and the close of this age. It is extremely important to hold these questions in mind in dealing with the rest of the scriptures, in Matthew24 & 25 (1) Jesus tells them of others who come and claim to be the Christ, he warns them not to be led astray by these pretenders. There were many after Jesus who came claiming Messiahship (2) He tells them of wars and rumors of war, but also answers the ? of when will the end come. But he says the end is not yet. The end only comes in Matthew 25 when He judges the wicked and gives life to the righteous. He talks of nations and kingdoms fighting each other as well as earth quakes and Famines. But in connecting this to what he said about "the end is not yet", rather these are the beginnings of the birth pains. So when his disciples see these things happening as indeed Paul witnessed the Famine in Israel, then they are to understand this is the start of the birth pains that will birth something new, even The new Creation. They, the disciples will be delivered up to tribulation and be put to death and hated by the Nations, for the name of Yeshua Massiach. It is talking of suffering in the name of the King of Israel, Jesus, many will fall away and their love will grow cold because of the increase of wickedness. But those who endure to the end will be saved. Also the gospel of the Kingdom will be preached to all the nations of the world, then in answer to their ? of the end of the age. THEN the end will come. Vase Jesus tells them when YOU the disciples see the "abomination that causes desolation" standing in the temple, spoken of by the prophet Daniel (let the reader understand). This was addressed to the Jews of Jesus' time. This is whom Jesus is addressing. When they see these thing happen as described in Daniel 9 let them get out. Because what will take place is so terrible, for in vs 20 Jesus tells them to pray that it will not take place in winter or in Sabbath |
