MARK 13 (Mat 24-25) Signs of the End of the Age
In response to questioning from the disciples Jesus says vv 7–8 … 7 And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately. 8 Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in many parts of the world, as well as famines. But this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come. [like reading newsblog]
Chapter 13 of Marks gospel is known as the Olivet Discourse (on the Mount of Olives), and is the longest section of teaching in the gospel.
“By far the most difficult passage in the book of Mark” (Hughes)
Agree Don Carson that few chapters of the Bible have as much disagreement among interpreters than Mark 13 (Mat 24-25; Luke 21)
As we have heard in recent weeks Jesus made his Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem, prophesied destruction for Israel in cursing the fig tree and cleansing the Temple. Chapter 12 was the continued questioning of His authority, climaxing in Jesus exalting the poor widow and her offering.
In doing so he passed judgment on the religious leadership of Israel.
Jesus leaves the Temple for good.
The Cross awaits him. The Olivet Discourse acts as the bridge to Jesus’ final days. It was his final address, his farewell prophecy. [Hughes]
Jesus here predicts destruction of the temple in Jerusalem, prompting disciples to ask questions about “when will all this happen?”
Mark 13:1–13
Key to understand this passage is in the question/s asked vs 4 “Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to be fulfilled?” Matthew 24:3 (NLT) 3 “Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will signal your return and the end of the world?”
In the disciples mind the destruction of the temple was associated with the End of the Age. They assumed that the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple were some of the events at the end of the present Age and would initiate the messianic kingdom. [Palm Sunday]
Zechariah 14:1–4
Reference to the Day of the Lord; destruction of Jerusalem; military intervention of the Messiah.
Remember the mount of transfiguration – Matthew 17– Peter “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles [booths]: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
In kingdom they’re going to observe the feast of the booths, tabernacles.
vs 8 “But this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come”
The framework around this was the disciple’s questioning about Herod’s temple (still incomplete in Jesus’ day) – had reputation of being the most beautiful building in the then known world. Jesus says whole thing will be demolished. Disciples staggered…
vv 7-8 Do not be alarmed – “troubled” is throeō (θροεω) “to be disturbed, disquieted, terrified” – present imperative is used here, “forbidding the continuance of an action already going on” – cf John 14:1 let not your hearts be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in Me…
vv 5-13 Not the End, an Opportunity – warning against false signs and tribulation –
Stop being troubled
See this as an opportunity for the Gospel
Persevere.