Who is Jesus like? Vv. 5, 6- When the people saw the splendor of the temple, Jesus says that the temple has turned into a den of robbers and that not one stone will be left on top of another. If there are any churches today that do not help the believers who had the spirit come on them and just look at the building and cling to the number of members, formal worship and worldly expectations, then they too will see the day of destruction.
Vv. 17-19- In the last days, family members will turn on each other and people will lose their lives. But the Lord, who knows the number of hair on our head (12:4, 5), will help those who faithfully endure to the end and protect their souls.
What lesson is God teaching me? Vv. 7-9- Before the temple is destroyed there will be many false Messiah’s that will come (Ac 5:36, 37; 20:29, 30). Also in 66 AD, before the Jewish war starts, there will be wars and revolutions. Even now there are those who take the seat of Jesus Christ and distort his teachings that cause many problems for the church. In times like these, what are you doing to know the true Jesus?
Vv. 12-15- Before the day of destruction the believers will be persecuted. These events are completed by the persecutions the church faced in Acts. But the spirit will make those times of persecution a chance for us to deliver the good news so there is no need to find ways to justify ourselves (4:33; 6:10). When we seek out the truth in the spirit the Lord will personally guide our lips.
Help me to remain patient as the last days draw near.
