(Matthew 24)
The Final Week – These words that Jesus speaks as His final address to Israel and then to His closest of friends, previously called disciples, are elevated as most significant. To the failures of leadership of the day Jesus reserves the harshest of words with 8 woes. Language that is tough, clear, truthful and yet still loving.
But on the Mount of Olives the disciples have questions about the future of Israel and the end of the world. No doubt, this was troubling to these men. Now suspecting that Jesus may leave them and now knowing that the temple would be destroyed they knew that difficult days were ahead. Of course, they were very concerned with the future.
This is what Jesus explains just days before His crucifixion in Matthew 24.
First, this message is to the people of that future time – Jerusalem, Jerusalem. (Matt 23:37)
Jesus explains that His Second Coming is proceeded by Israel saying, Blessed is He that comes in the name of the Lord. This also fits the narrative of Romans 9, 10 and 11: God is not done with Israel. There is a literal Kingdom still yet to come.
Matthew 24 explains the days of deception that mounts to the first half of the Tribulation through the list of birth pangs for that generation. This is followed by a time period that the world has never before experience.
Since the Rapture has already occurred, we the glorified Saints come with King Jesus to rescue the remnant elect of Israel. This is the glory of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The emphasis here is that Israel gets their second chance. God keeps His promises. And God is a God of great Mercy.
The world will hate. We are witnessing this aggressive behavior in our days. Whether it’s antisemitism or profanity from Hollywood, it is clearly getting worse. These words are from the gospel of Matthew chapter 24 where Jesus explains an end of days scenario to His disciples. These words are here as a warning to every generation to know our bibles and speak up when we can. Share truth. Share Christ.
