QT 1/15/2024 Mark 13:14-23, Signs relating to the tribulation time

Mark 13:14–23 (ESV) —

14 “But when you see the abomination of desolation standing where he ought not to be (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 15 Let the one who is on the housetop not go down, nor enter his house, to take anything out, 16 and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. 17 And alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! 18 Pray that it may not happen in winter. 19 For in those days there will be such tribulation as has not been from the beginning of the creation that God created until now, and never will be. 20 And if the Lord had not cut short the days, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect, whom he chose, he shortened the days. 21 And then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘Look, there he is!’ do not believe it. 22 For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, the elect. 23 But be on guard; I have told you all things beforehand.

 

NOTE: I believe that the Luke 21:20-14 (Jerusalem surrounded) and this Mark 13:14-23 passage refer to two different events. Luke's passage answers the question concerning the fall of Jerusalem in 70AD. Mark's passage explains the tribulation period that ends with Jesus' return. Essentially the sign of Jesus' return is the tribulation period. The middle of the tribulation, when the abomination that causes desolation is placed in the temple puts Jesus' return at 3.5 years away, but also begins a period of great tribulation to Israel. The treaty will be broken, and just as Jerusalem was destroyed and a million Jews killed in 70AD, so it will be open season on the Jews again in the last half of the tribulation.

 

Finally, as the next passage will conclude, don't be fooled by people claiming to be Jesus, Jesus' coming will be undeniable.

 

PONDER:

Whether we like it or not, the US will no longer be a supporter of Israel. We certainly can pray for the country, but God will allow evil to win temporarily. Our focus needs to be on the spiritual, not the material -- what am I doing to share Christ?

 

PRAYER: Father, help me to be bold and to warn others of the coming days. I will probably sound like a nut or weirdo, but that does not change biblical facts. Give me grace to proclaim Christ.