What Temple?
Jesus leaves the temple for the last time prior to His crucifixion now just days away. A widow lady dropped two copper coins (Greek:lepta) into the collection plate and Jesus marveled at her extreme generosity.
As they were leaving, the disciples were amazed at the temple structure and even call it “magnificent.” Then Jesus drops a big one on them! Mark 13 along with Matthew and Luke, provide us with information regarding our Lord’s Second Coming. Advent is a season in the new church year, when we too must reflect not only on Jesus’ birth, death and resurrection but his promise to come again to shepherd us to our heavenly home.
Read Mark 13
Keep your mind’s eye on the following words or phrases: watch out for deceivers; Stand firm to the end; my Words will never pass away; Keep watch.
Why do you think that Jesus is taking this opportunity to discuss His second coming now?
Jesus’ words about Jerusalem and its temple were fulfilled in 70 A. D. Josephus said, “It looked as if its site had never been inhabited.” (Halley’s Bible Handbook). The magnificent stones noted by the disciples were no match for the Romans who besieged the city. Josephus was used by Emperor Titus as a negotiator but without success. Over one million perished according to Josephus with thousands captured. Titus’ original intent was not to destroy the temple but fire spread out of control that spelled disaster for the temple.
Let’s examine the words and phrases highlighted above in this section.
- Watch out for deceivers (13:5)
- Jesus predicts of many “False Christs.” Do you think this could include those religions who make claims outside Christianity? Explain your answer.
- With what ammunition can a person attempt to deceive you? And how can we challenge them?
- Stand firm unto the end (13:13)
- Jesus warns the disciples that tribulation(s) will come. He even relates them to birth pains (as if these guys would understand that?) Go to Romans 5:3 and listen to Paul’s instruction about suffering and endurance.
- What is the result of our standing firm? See Revelation 2:10b
- My Word will never pass away (13:31)
- Jesus has certainly kept his word so to speak during his walk with the disciples. But Jesus is talking more than just “words,” rather The WORD (logos) which is another name for our Lord. Go to John 1:1-14.
- How do John’s words about God’s eternal existence give you hope and confidence to believe in Jesus’ promises?
- Watch! (13:35-37)
- What is the duty of a sentry?
- In today’s world, we have all types of sentries that are watching out for unauthorized persons attempting to subvert. But how diligent are YOU as a sentry in guarding against unauthorized entry to your temple?
- Jesus uses the word, “therefore,” which my mentor and teacher (The Rev. W. E. Lauterbach) would remind you and me to watch out here comes something important. What analogy does Mark use here as our sentry duty?
While Herod’s temple was completely demolished in 70 AD and the heavens and the earth will also be doomed, we have a great promise here from none other than Jesus himself who saves us to all eternity. Jesus’ promise to send His Holy Spirit was confirmed on Pentecost Day and continues with each believer as they come to faith by the waters of Holy Baptism. We have the guaranteed Spirit in the temple of our body that cannot be destroyed and will survive all earthly persecutions and even physical death. To God be the Glory! Amen and Amen!