• While Revelation is the best-known apocalyptic work, there are several examples throughout the Old and New Testament.
• Many scholars refer to this chapter as Mark’s “Little Apocalypse”, and it connects with Matthew 24-25 and Luke 21. What images comes to mind when you hear the word “apocalypse”? Do you see it as hopeful or something to be feared?
• “In a nutshell, apocalyptic literature stems from a worldview that believes that everything happening on earth represents and correlates with a larger, heavenly struggle between good and evil. It therefore reads into earthly events cosmic significance and anticipates future events on earth in light of the coming battle between the forces of God and the devil. Hence, it often tries to make sense of current events and experiences by casting them in a larger, cosmic framework and in this way give comfort to people who are currently suffering or being oppressed.” David Lose, Working Preacher
• Jesus speaks to his disciples about the destruction of the temple, upcoming persecutions, and the need to remain faithful in all things and at all times. These are challenging texts, but they do provide substantial strength for those going through difficult times. Is there anything in this chapter that you find helpful?
• The challenge with apocalyptic literature is the temptation to make everything about the current age. While there are certainly similarities between Jesus’ day and our own, this chapter almost certainly refers to the destruction of the second temple in 70 AD and the Romans brutal suppression of an Israeli uprising. The “Desolating Sacrilege” or the “Abomination of Desolation” is mostly likely a statue of the Roman Emperor Titus on the temple grounds.
• The news isn’t all bad, and the chapter concludes with the need for watchfulness. The coming of the Son of Man with great power and glory is promised, and followers of Christ are encouraged to keep awake. This is more than an overused adage like, “It’s always darkest before the dawn.” This is tangible hope that God is in charge no matter what evil is happening in the current age.
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