But when you see the abomination of desolation standing where he ought not to be…be on guard; I have told you all things beforehand.
Mark 13:14-23
Mark gives more detail than the other gospels about Jesus’ answer to His Disciples questions about the destruction of Jerusalem and the end times. Jesus begins, and ends, His comments with a warning to those who will be alive when these events occur. In His warnings, He tells people to not do what seems to be the thing to do for protection. In ancient times, the walled city was safer than being in the open country. Armies trying to enter a walled city would have to “lay siege” to the city, sometimes taking a long time to breach the walled city. The Roman army, led by Titus, began such a siege of Jerusalem in 66 AD which culminated in the destruction of Jerusalem, the Temple and, the deaths of more than 1 million Jews in 70 AD. Titus was called back to Rome to become emperor and Vespasian finished the destruction. This event was the near time fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecy in our verses today. As with most Biblical prophecy, a near time and a far time fulfillment is prophesied. Jesus warned people to not do what they believed is the safe thing for the city will not protect them this time. Jesus pronounced woe upon pregnant and nursing women as their babies will be slaughtered before their eyes and they will be killed afterward. Jesus warned of the timing of this event, praying that it not be in seasons of cold weather. He also said that there will be tribulation for the elect of God like never had been before and, God will shorten the time for His elect because there will be many false christs and prophets, claiming to be or to have seen Messiah, trying fool even the elect of God. Jesus ends His prophecy with a final warning to be “on guard” for “I have told you all things beforehand.” Christians, let us gain wisdom from our Savior and Lord, in His words. While we do not know when Jesus will return, we must live as though Jesus will return any minute. We must teach that to our children, loved ones and, all who will listen and heed Jesus’ warnings. As we worship this Sabbath, let us give God the glory He deserves, His Son for all He has done to bring salvation to us and, let us do it in the Holy Spirit who in-dwells each believer!
Source: S C Ball May 7, 2023
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