Watch Out (Mark 13:1-13)
This week at Grace, we're starting four weeks in Mark 13, one of the most debated and controversial chapters in the gospels. In it (and the parallel versions in Matthew 24 and Luke 21), Jesus warns the disciples about the coming destruction of the temple and their need to persevere in their faith even in difficult times.
So, what's so controversial about that?
While the chapter begins talking about the temple, by the end Jesus is describing his return in victory. The debate is over when he switches from talking about what would occur in our past (their future) to what has yet to come for all of us.
Confused yet?
I get that anything that sounds like eschatology raises concerns for some Christians. They remember (either fondly or not) a previous era of American Christianity when eschatology was a primary discussion point in sermons and Bible studies.
But I hope that as we look at Jesus' words together over these next few weeks we'll see his heart, his wisdom, and his goodness to all of us.
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
And as he came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher, what wonderful stones and what wonderful buildings!” 2 And Jesus said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? There will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”
3 And as he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, 4 “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when all these things are about to be accomplished?” 5 And Jesus began to say to them, “See that no one leads you astray. 6 Many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and they will lead many astray. 7 And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. 8 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. These are but the beginning of the birth pains.
9 “But be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them. 10 And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations. 11 And when they bring you to trial and deliver you over, do not be anxious beforehand what you are to say, but say whatever is given you in that hour, for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit. 12 And brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death. 13 And you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
- Mark 13:1-13