Mark 13:3–8 – Be discerning and watchful

In verse 2, the Lord had predicted the destruction of the temple. As magnificent as it might be, He said that not a single stone would remain upon another. Tragically, these words were so true. The Romans conquered Jerusalem under Titus, had ordered that the Temple be preserved. But a soldier set fire that gutted the temple. Titus then ordered that both Jerusalem and the temple be destroyed. Driven by greed, the soldiers literally chiseled every stone apart just to retrieve the melted gold.

When Jesus and the disciples had ascended Mount Olives, they sat opposite the dramatic view of the temple. The inner circle of Jesus – Peter, James, John plus Andrew sought an audience with the Lord. Still astounded by what the Lord had prophesied earlier, they said to the Lord, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign, when all these things are going to be fulfilled.” They wanted to know two things: the time and the sign that would indicate the destruction of the temple. The Lord then proceeded to answer their questions.  While doing that, He also gave instructions to the church about His return. He would not give them any date but told them, and us as well, to remain steadfast and faithful till He comes.  

The first thing the Lord warned believers against was deception. His people must not be deceived. There would be false claims. Many would come claiming to be Christ.  Believers must not be taken in and be misled by them. In other words don’t be deceived by false teachings. When news of war break out don’t be alarmed. There would be wars as well as rumors of wars. Nations would rise against nations and kingdoms against kingdoms.  Then there would be natural disasters such as earthquakes and famines in several places. When all these are seen, they would only be the beginning. It would just be like a pregnant woman’s initial birth pangs.  

During the times after Christ’s death, resurrection and ascension, and the destruction of the temple, there were experiences of earthquakes in several places. There was experience of famine even in Rome itself. It was not the end of all things as yet. And Christ did not return. Today, we are seeing such signs in increasing proportion. The truth is this: with each natural disaster and wars and rumors of wars, there is also an increase in the number of false Christs that purport to have the answers to human crises. The warning to us by the Lord is: do not be deceived by any of these things!

Mankind will continue to sin till the end of time. Our best actions are: be faithful to the Lord; be committed to the His service; and be watchful for His coming; but do not be deceived.