Signs of the End of the Age
March 7, 2022
Commentary
When Jesus finished teaching He overheard some people commenting on the beauty of the Temple that had been reconstructed (v. 5). But our Lord was not impressed. He told them that the day would come when this beautiful temple would be destroyed (v. 6). Of course, this was fulfilled when the Romans destroyed it in A.D. 70, but also has prophetic significance. Jesus went to the Mount of Olives where Peter, James, and John asked three questions (vv. 7-19):
When would the temple be destroyed ?What would be the sign of His coming?What would be the sign of the end of the age? Jesus’ answer is often referred to as “The Olivet Discourse,” which is the greatest prophetic sermon He ever preached. It refers to the period of time in God’s program called “The Tribulation,” when God will pour out His wrath on the nations of the world.
It will be a time of religious delusion (v.8). In every age there have been those who either claim to be Christ or claim to know when He will return, but it will intensify.It will be a time of international distress (vv. 9-11). This refers to wars, earthquakes, pestilences, etc. that will be on the increase.It will be a time of religious persecution (vv. 12-19). This will come from places where it is least expected, such as family and friends, but we must not despair, for God is in control.
Application
Jesus warned that in the coming persecutions his followers would be betrayed by their family members and friends. I need to take heed to these three admonitions: Don’t Be Deceived - Don’t Be Afraid - Don’t Worry.
Luke 21:5– 19 (NET)
5 Now while some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and offerings, Jesus said, 6 “As for these things that you are gazing at, the days will come when not one stone will be left on another. All will be torn down!” 7 So they asked him, “Teacher, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that these things are about to take place?” 8 He said, “Watch out that you are not misled. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them! 9 And when you hear of wars and rebellions, do not be afraid. For these things must happen first, but the end will not come at once.”
10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise up in arms against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, and famines and plagues in various places, and there will be terrifying sights and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you, handing you over to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and governors because of my name. 13 This will be a time for you to serve as witnesses. 14 Therefore be resolved not to rehearse ahead of time how to make your defense. 15 For I will give you the words along with the wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict. 16 You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will have some of you put to death. 17 You will be hated by everyone because of my name. 18 Yet not a hair of your head will perish. 19 By your endurance you will gain your lives.
Illustration: Don’t be Deceived Afraid or Worry
Jesus warned that in the coming persecutions his followers would be betrayed by their family members and friends. I need to take heed to these three admonitions: Don’t Be Deceived – Don’t Be Afraid – Don’t Worry. (Source Unknown)