Knowing The Word in Matthew 24:1-2
This new chapter in Matthew begins the fifth and last of the great discourses of Jesus’ teaching. Its theme is the future repercussions of his ministry, the ultimate consummation of the kingdom of heaven. Central to this passage is the theme of judgment: judgment on Jerusalem (24:1-35), judgment associated with his second coming (25:1-30), and the scene of the final judgment (25:31-46). Chapters 24 and 25 are private teachings to the disciples. Jesus’ public teaching is over. Chapter 24 poses great interpretive problems. It begins with the looming destruction of the temple, which was destroyed in AD 70 by the Romans but by the end of the chapter it seems to have moved on the parousia, the second and final coming of Jesus. Both of these seem to be combined in the disciples’ question in verse 3, which we will look at tomorrow. We know, however, the temple has met its destruction while Jesus has yet to return. To explain how the two work together yet remain separate, let me begin with a few general statements to guide us through:
There is a close theological connection between these two events. Both involve a judgment that will vindicate Jesus as God’s true and final word to his people.
A clear aim of Jesus’ teaching is to prevent premature excitement about the parousia.
A theological connection between the events of AD 70 and the close of the age does not in itself imply they must take place simultaneously.
Verses 4-35 say the temple will be destroyed during “this generation,” while verses 36 and following show the date of the parousia to be unknown, even to Jesus himself. This, then, calls for our constant readiness.
The whole chapter uses language of the Old Testament, especially Daniel, while not quoting it but alluding to it.
Jesus Foretells Destruction of the Temple
1 Jesus left the temple and was going away [this symbolizes its end in the purposes of God], when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. 2 But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” [Micah and Jeremiah predicted the destruction of Solomon’s temple, which occurred in 587 BC. Jesus now goes against contemporary Jewish belief that this temple was indestructible. In making this statement, Jesus rejects Jewish nationalism and her leaders whose power was focused on the temple and its rituals.]