The Destruction of the Temple and the End Times Prophecies of Jesus. (Luke 21: 5-38)
When people hear the name Jesus, what comes to mind? On a popular level, at best many people just think of him as a wise teacher, perhaps even a good man.
However, for those who truly know him, he is not merely a teacher but our saviour. Moreover, if you consider deeper, you can recognize him as a returning king. Thus, the most general way for Christians to think about Christ is as a great teacher, a wonderful saviour, and a future king. Yet, amidst these roles, one crucial aspect often gets overlooked: Jesus Christ was also a prophet.
In fact, theologians often refer to him as the prophet, priest, and king. Today, I aim to shed a little light on Jesus Christ, the prophet.
Firstly, Ill as what did he prophecy, or another way of saying that, what did he promise?
Secondly, what significance does it hold for us?
That’s what we are going to try and figure out today. Welcome to TBPDP.
I began today in my introduction asked two questions.
Firstly, what did he prophecy, or another way of saying that is, what did he promise?
Secondly, what significance does it hold for us?
To answer the first question, Jesus prophesied extensively. He made specific predictions, such as Peter's denial and the coming of the Holy Spirit after his departure.
However, one of his major discourses solely revolves around a specific lengthy prophecy passage. This discourse, known as the Olivet Discourse, occurred just the week before his crucifixion and it took place on the Mount of Olives, overlooking Jerusalem.
This discourse as recorded in Matthew spanned two chapters and one chapter of Luke and is a subject of intense debate among Bible scholars to this day.
Therefore, in this episode, I seek to clarify Jesus's prophecies here, but also to hopefully demonstrate their potential impact on us. With this in mind, let us turn to Luke's account of the Olivet Discourse in Luke chapter 21.
Before looking into the detailed response Jesus provides in Luke chapter 21, it's essential to establish a foundational understanding. To grasp the narrative fully, we must first cross-reference with Matthew chapter 24, where the Olivet Discourse is also recorded.
Matthew and Luke offer distinct perspectives on this discourse, and failing to understand their differences could lead to confusion in interpreting Jesus's prophecies.
In Matthew 24:1, we find Jesus departing from the temple, prompting his disciples to marvel at its grandeur. Jesus, however, solemnly predicts the temple's destruction, a prophecy reiterated in Luke 21. Both accounts record this prophecy.
Yet, the disciples' inquiries diverge between the two Gospels. In Matthew 24:3, they inquire about "when these things will be" – referring to the temple's destruction – along with the signs of Jesus's coming and the end of the age.
However, Luke's account in 21:7 focuses solely on when "these things" will occur, omitting the disciples' questions about Jesus's return and the end times.
This discrepancy is crucial for understanding Jesus's dual prophecy. In Luke's narrative, Jesus here primarily addresses the impending destruction of the temple, which historically occurred in 78 AD. In contrast, Matthew extends beyond this event to prophesy about another temple's destruction preceding his second coming.
So, returning to Luke chapter 21, we must bear in mind Luke's deliberate focus on Jesus's predictions regarding the temple's destruction, so now, let's revisit the passage from verse 5, where the disciples marvel at the temple's magnificence.
The Destruction of the Temple and Signs of the End Times.
5 Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, 6 “As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.” 7 “Teacher,” they asked, “when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?”
(Luke 21: 5-7)
It's vital to grasp the grandeur of the temple that Jesus and his disciples were looking at. Let me try and offer a glimpse of what they were looking at. Imagine columns soaring to a height of 40 feet – the equivalent of a four-story building – four of them. This temple was considered one of the wonders of the world, an architectural marvel that left visitors awestruck.
Now, in verse 6, a staggering prophecy unfolds: not a single stone of this awe-inspiring structure will remain upon another. To grasp the gravity of this statement, one must contemplate the sheer size and weight of those stones. The logistics of their placement and construction boggle the mind. Yet, Jesus declares unequivocally that every stone will be toppled.
Previously, in chapter 19, Jesus discussed the impending destruction of the city. Now, he shifts focus to the actual temple's demise. Thus, the disciples' natural inquiry is: when will this cataclysm occur?
Beginning in verse 8 and going down through verse 24 He answers that question by giving a series of commands and as I understand them there are 7 so we're going to quickly run through these verses and commands beginning in verse 8.
8 He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them. 9 When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.”
10 Then he said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven. 12 “But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. 13 And so you will bear testimony to me. 14 But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. 15 For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. 16 You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. 17 Everyone will hate you because of me. 18 But not a hair of your head will perish. 19 Stand firm, and you will win life.
(Luke 21: 8-19)
20 “When you see Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, you will know that its desolation is near. 21 Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those in the city get out, and let those in the country not enter the city. 22 For this is the time of punishment in fulfilment of all that has been written. 23 How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! There will be great distress in the land and wrath against this people. 24 They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.
(Luke 21: 20-24)
I believe as do many that the events described in Luke 21 were fulfilled just prior to 78 AD, mirroring what will occur before the second coming of Christ, as elucidated in Matthew 24. (PPT)
Indeed, historical records attest to occurrences reminiscent of those foretold by Jesus. In 61 A.D. a severe earthquake rocked the region, reminiscent of the calamities prophesied. The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 63 A.D., burying Pompeii, stands as another example of the turmoil of the times. Moreover, famine and rebellion plagued the era, notably during Nero's reign in 68 A.D., as documented by Josephus.
Some scholars cite these events as fulfilling Jesus's prophecies. However, amidst these trials, Jesus exhorts his followers: "Do not be afraid." This advise remains relevant today. Additionally, he warns against deception – another timeless admonition.
In verse 12, Jesus foretells persecution and assures believers that such trials will in fact serve as opportunities for testimony. This underscores the importance of remaining faithful in the face of adversity. Remember, every negative circumstance may be an occasion to bear witness to the hope within you.
Comparing Matthew and Luke, we observe Luke's focus on Jewish persecution, while Matthew's account appears broader, also encompassing Gentiles. Regardless of the audience, the message remains clear: be prepared to give an account of your faith amidst persecution.
Jesus's promise in verse 14 provides profound comfort. He assures believers that in moments of persecution, they need not try and work out and pre planned response. Instead, trust that the Holy Spirit will provide the words and wisdom needed to conquer adversaries. This assurance underscores the supernatural support available to all believers at all times.
Have you ever experienced speaking with unexpected clarity and wisdom in a challenging anti-Christian situation? This phenomenon, I believe, stems from the Holy Spirit's empowerment.
Indeed, it's not uncommon to experience moments where words flow from our mouths with a clarity and wisdom beyond our own capabilities. These are moments of divine intervention, where God provides the wisdom needed to bear witness effectively. So, when called upon to testify, simply speak, and trust that God will impart the necessary wisdom.
Next, Jesus emphasizes the need for endurance in verse 16. He warns that believers will face betrayal, sometimes from within their own family, resulting in persecution and, in some cases, even death.
However, amidst these trials, Jesus assures his followers that not a hair on their heads will be harmed. This apparent contradiction puzzled me initially. How can some face persecution and potential death while remaining unscathed?
Commentators offer various interpretations, suggesting community preservation or spiritual salvation. However, these explanations fall short. Instead, I believe Jesus is affirming God's sovereignty. Some will indeed face martyrdom, while others will be spared. This truth is evident in Jesus's conversation with Peter regarding John's fate in John chapter 21. Peter is reminded that God's plan differs for each individual, and it's not for him to question.
Furthermore, Jesus emphasizes the importance of endurance, indicating that it's through enduring trials. This endurance, or "patience" as translated from the Greek, is crucial in maintaining spiritual resilience amidst persecution and tribulation. Therefore, trust in God's sovereignty, endure faithfully, and know that your soul remains secure in His hands.
Interpreting Signs and Responding with Vigilance. (PPT)
Throughout this chapter, Jesus issues a series of commands, guiding his followers through tumultuous times. He emphasizes the importance of endurance, urging them to remain faithful amidst persecution. Furthermore, he warns against deception and fear, instructing believers not to worry about their responses when faced with opposition.
In verse 20, Jesus provides a specific sign – the sight of Jerusalem surrounded by armies. This sign heralds the impending desolation of the city. It's crucial to note the distinction between Luke's account and Matthew chapter 24. While Matthew focuses on the abomination of desolation preceding the second coming of Christ, Luke speaks of the destruction of Jerusalem.
This divergence underscores the different contexts of the two passages. Matthew's discourse pertains to the tribulation and the second coming of Christ, while Luke's narrative centers on the events in the nearer term leading to the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD.
Therefore, the sign in Luke 21:20 signals the imminent devastation of Jerusalem by the Roman forces.
Understanding this sign, Jesus advises those in Judea to flee to the mountains when they witness the city being surrounded. Fleeing to the mountains was a common practice during ancient wars, offering refuge from besieged cities. Jesus's directive indicates the urgency of escape before the city's downfall.
Moreover, Jesus expresses concern for vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women and nursing mothers, who will face great distress during these tumultuous times. He foretells a period of judgment upon the land and its people, culminating in Jerusalem's subjugation by the Gentiles.
This prophecy underscores the severity of the impending judgment and the necessity for preparedness among believers. It also serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of earthly powers and the ultimate fulfilment of God's plan. Therefore, let us heed Jesus's warnings, remain vigilant, and trust in God's sovereignty amidst the trials of this world.
In the midst of Jesus's teachings in Luke 21, we encounter this straightforward command to flee. When Jerusalem is encircled by armies, the urgency to escape becomes paramount. Those within the city are advised to evacuate to the mountains, while those outside are warned against entering. Jesus's concern extends to pregnant women and nursing mothers, recognizing the added difficulty they would face in flight.
The historical record attests to the fulfilment of this prophecy. The Roman army did indeed besiege Jerusalem, resulting in its conquest and the destruction of the temple. Josephus reports a staggering death toll and a multitude taken into captivity, corroborating the prophetic biblical account.
What's particularly noteworthy is Jesus's statement in verse 24 regarding Jerusalem's fate. He prophesies that the city will be "trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled." This phrase carries profound significance, marking a period of Gentile dominion over Jerusalem, beginning with Nebuchadnezzar's conquest in 586 BC and extending until His return, the second coming of Christ.
Understanding this timeframe is crucial, as it signifies the conclusion of the events surrounding 70 AD. The mention of the times of the Gentiles leads seamlessly into Jesus's subsequent discourse on his second coming. This leap from historical events to eschatological prophecy is not uncommon in Scripture, as demonstrated by Jesus's earlier citation of Isaiah in Luke 4.
Therefore, the transition from the destruction of Jerusalem to the anticipation of Christ's return aligns with biblical patterns of prophecy. It underscores the interconnectedness of past events and future fulfilment, revealing the sovereignty of God over human history and the fact that Hebrew prophecy was cyclical.
Let us heed all these prophecies, both the one historically fulfilled and those to come, at the same time recognizing their relevance in our understanding of God's plan for redemption and restoration.
All right now verse 25.
25 “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. 26 People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. 27 At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
(Luke 21: 25-28)
Reflections on Signs and What they Mean for Today
As we explore Jesus's discourse on the second coming in Luke 21, it's crucial to discern the relevance of the signs in the heavens and the natural disasters preceding his return.
While Matthew 24 provides clarity on these signs, it's essential to remember Jesus's caution against premature excitement and speculation regarding the end times.
While speculation about the time of the second coming is intriguing, it's vital to approach such observations with caution and a balanced understanding of biblical prophecy.
Jesus himself reminds us that we cannot predict the exact timing of his return, and as believers, our focus should remain on living faithfully and spreading the gospel.
Therefore, while these celestial events may be of interest, they do not serve as definitive signs of the end times for believers. Instead, they provide an opportunity for reflection on the broader lessons of Scripture and our readiness for Christ's return.
In light of this, I offer three encouragements for us today:
Remain grounded in Scripture: While we may encounter various interpretations and speculations, let us anchor ourselves in the timeless truths of God's Word. Scripture provides us with a solid foundation for understanding prophecy and guiding our lives accordingly.
Exercise discernment: As we navigate discussions about the end times, let us approach them with discernment and a spirit of humility. Rather than becoming fixated on specific signs or predictions, let us focus on living faithfully and sharing the hope of Christ with others.
Always embrace a posture of readiness: Regardless of when Christ returns, our call as believers remains the same – to be prepared and vigilant in our faith. Let us live each day with a sense of urgency, faithfully serving the Lord and eagerly anticipating his return.
In conclusion, while the signs in the heavens may capture our attention, let us remember that our ultimate hope rests in the promise of Christ's return. May we heed Jesus's exhortations, remaining steadfast in our faith and diligent in our witness until that glorious day.
29 :He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. 30: When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. 31: Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.
(By the way notice the Kingdom of God is near. ‘future tense’)
.32: “Truly I tell you; this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 33: Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 34: “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. 35: For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth.
(Luke 21: 29-35)
In verse 29, Jesus emphasizes the importance of awareness. He clarifies that the signs he mentioned are not merely applicable to the events of 70 AD but pertain to the following generations, particularly the one just before his second coming.
When these signs manifest, the generation witnessing them will not pass away until all is fulfilled – until Christ returns and establishes his kingdom on earth.
Jesus employs the analogy of the fig tree to illustrate this concept. Just as one can see the approach of summer by observing the fig tree's budding leaves, so too believers should be attentive to the signs preceding Christ's return. When these signs unfold, they signify the imminence of Christ's coming.
Furthermore, Jesus underscores the absolute certainty of his words. Not one iota of his prophecy will go unfulfilled. He says. Heaven and earth may pass away, but his word remains unshakeable and enduring. Therefore, the first encouragement Jesus offers is to simply be vigilant and observant of the signs, recognizing their significance in signalling the approaching fulfilment of God's salvation plan.
Indeed, Jesus's urging us to be aware of his coming is followed by a crucial admonition in verse 34: "Take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and the cares of this life." The underlying message is clear: losing sight of the imminent return of Christ can lead to worldly distractions and sinful behaviours.
This serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of losing focus on the Messiah's return. It's not about our current circumstances but rather about the state of our hearts. When we allow the cares of this life to weigh us down, we risk being caught off guard by the unexpected arrival of the day of judgment.
We must heed Jesus's warning to guard our hearts diligently. It's not about neglecting our responsibilities but about prioritizing our spiritual well-being above all else. Yes, we have tasks to accomplish, but we mustn't allow them to consume us to the point of spiritual negligence.
Therefore, let us take heed and continually examine our hearts, ensuring they remain focused on the anticipation of Christ's return. By doing so, we can avoid being ensnared by the distractions of this world and be prepared for the day when our Lord returns unexpectedly.
His third Exhortation follows beginning in verse 36
36: Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” 37: Each day Jesus was teaching at the temple, and each evening he went out to spend the night on the hill called the Mount of Olives, 38: and all the people came early in the morning to hear him at the temple.
Jesus's final exhortation in this chapter is to "watch." This entails maintaining a constant state of expectation, rather than being weighed down by worldly concerns and caught off guard by his coming. He emphasizes the importance of vigilance and prayer, urging believers to live lives worthy of standing before him at the judgment seat.
Reflecting on our journey through these 33 verses, we can hopefully see the big picture here. Jesus predicts the destruction of Jerusalem while providing instructions for those who will witness it. Furthermore, he extends his discourse to encompass his second coming, by focusing on the signs of the times.
What stands out most is the abundance of practical encouragements contained within these prophecies. Amidst discussions of future events, Jesus repeatedly urges readiness and steadfastness. This emphasis on preparedness underscores the certainty of history's trajectory and the impending fulfilment of God's plan.
Indeed, these passages convey the assurance of Christ's presence with us. Despite the trials and uncertainties, we may face, his comforting promise remains: "I am with you."
With this assurance, even the darkest of circumstances can be transformed into places of divine presence and peace.
As we anticipate the fulfilment of Christ's prophecies, let us heed his exhortations to remain vigilant, steadfast, and focused on proclaiming his message until his return. For when the Lord is with us, even the harshest prison can become a hotel, and the fiercest storm can be calmed into summer weather.
But I have to end on this note it is that he says you need to be constantly expecting him to come.
The point being we should live in constant expectation that the Lord could come at any minute The Lord in His position as a prophet said taking on this message and you do this by living in a permanent state of expectation.
We must live forever in the shadow of eternity in the certainty that we are men and women who are preparing ourselves to appear in the presence of the Lord.
We must always live In a permanent state of expectation in the shadow of eternal.