Introduction
Matthew 24, often called the “Olivet Discourse,” is one of the most detailed teachings of Jesus about the end times. In this chapter, Jesus answers His disciples’ questions about the destruction of the temple, the signs of His coming, and the end of the age. This study will explore the chapter in depth, using the KJV text, and provide practical applications for believers today.
I. The Disciples’ Questions and Jesus’ Warning (Matthew 24:1-3)
KJV Text:
- “And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple.”
- “And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”
- “And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?”
Insights:
- The disciples were amazed by the grandeur of the temple, but Jesus shocked them by prophesying its destruction (v. 2). This was fulfilled in AD 70 when the Romans destroyed Jerusalem and the temple.
- The disciples asked three questions: (1) When will the temple be destroyed? (2) What will be the sign of His coming? (3) What will be the sign of the end of the world (age)?
Cross-References:
- Luke 21:20-24 – Jesus gives more details about the destruction of Jerusalem.
- Daniel 9:26-27 – The prophecy of the destruction of the city and the sanctuary.
Application:
- Jesus’ words remind us that earthly things, no matter how grand, are temporary. Our focus should be on eternal things.
- Are we more attached to earthly treasures or to the eternal kingdom of God?
II. The Signs of the End (Matthew 24:4-14)
KJV Text:
- “And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.”
- “For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.”
- “And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.”
- “For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.”
- “All these are the beginning of sorrows.”
Insights:
- Jesus warns of deception, false messiahs, wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes. These are not the end but the “beginning of sorrows” (v. 8).
- In verses 9-14, He speaks of persecution, apostasy, false prophets, and the spreading of the gospel as key signs.
Key Verses:
- “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” (v. 14)
Cross-References:
- 2 Timothy 3:1-5 – Paul describes the perilous times of the last days.
- Revelation 6:1-8 – The four horsemen depict similar events.
Application:
- How can we guard against deception in a world filled with false teachings?
- Are we actively participating in spreading the gospel to all nations?
III. The Abomination of Desolation and Great Tribulation (Matthew 24:15-28)
KJV Text:
- “When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)”
- “Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:”
- “Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house:”
- “Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes.”
Insights:
- The “abomination of desolation” refers to a sacrilegious act that defiles the temple. Historically, this was fulfilled in 167 BC when Antiochus Epiphanes desecrated the temple, and in AD 70 when the Romans destroyed it.
- Jesus warns of a future tribulation so severe that it will be unparalleled in history (v. 21).
Key Verses:
- “For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.” (v. 21)
- “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” (v. 24)
Cross-References:
- Daniel 9:27; 11:31; 12:11 – Prophecies about the abomination of desolation.
- 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 – The man of lawlessness who exalts himself in the temple.
Application:
- How can we prepare spiritually for times of tribulation?
- What steps can we take to ensure we are not deceived by false teachings?
IV. The Coming of the Son of Man (Matthew 24:29-35)
KJV Text:
- “Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:”
- “And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”
Insights:
- Jesus describes His second coming as a visible, glorious event that will be unmistakable.
- He assures His disciples that His words are certain and will never pass away (v. 35).
Key Verses:
- “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” (v. 35)
Cross-References:
- Revelation 1:7 – Every eye will see Him.
- Acts 1:11 – Jesus will return in the same way He ascended.
Application:
- How does the certainty of Jesus’ return impact your daily life?
- Are you living in a way that anticipates His coming?
V. The Call to Watchfulness (Matthew 24:36-51)
KJV Text:
- “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.”
- “Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.”
- “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.”
Insights:
- Jesus emphasizes that no one knows the timing of His return, not even Himself (v. 36).
- He uses parables (the faithful servant, the thief in the night) to illustrate the importance of readiness and faithfulness.
Key Verses:
- “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?” (v. 45)
- “Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.” (v. 46)
Cross-References:
- 1 Thessalonians 5:2 – The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.
- Luke 12:35-48 – Parable of the watchful servants.
Application:
- Are you living as a faithful servant, using your time and resources for God’s kingdom?
- What areas of your life need to be aligned with God’s will in preparation for Christ’s return?
Conclusion and Reflection
Matthew 24 is a sobering yet hopeful chapter. It reminds us of the temporary nature of this world, the certainty of Christ’s return, and the importance of living faithfully and watchfully. As we study this passage, let us examine our hearts and lives to ensure we are ready for His coming.
Reflection Questions:
- How does the reality of Jesus’ return shape your priorities and decisions?
- Are there areas in your life where you need to repent or grow in faithfulness?
- How can you actively participate in spreading the gospel to all nations?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the hope we have in Jesus’ return. Help us to live faithfully, grounded in Your Word, and focused on Your kingdom. Keep us watchful and ready, and use us to share the gospel with others. May we eagerly await the day when Christ returns in glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
