Mark 13:1-37: Keep Watch
WAITING FOR CHRISTMAS can keep some children excited and on their best behavior for weeks. But what if Christmas never came? To many of us the Second Coming may seem like a Christmas that never comes. In this passage, Jesus answers some questions about the future, both near and far off, but above all he encourages an attitude we all need to develop.
Warming Up to God
When is it hard for you to wait for God? Ask him to give you insight and courage as you watch and wait.
Read Mark 13:1-37. »
Discovering the Word
- Jesus doesn't seem to answer the disciples' question directly, at least not at first. What is he concerned about (vv. 5-8)?
- How would Jesus' warnings and encouragements (vv. 5-13) have helped the disciples in the early years of the church?
- Christians have sometimes disagreed about how to interpret Jesus' words in verses 14-23. Some think Jesus is talking about the destruction of the temple in A.D. 70 and the events leading up to that. Others think these events are still future. What evidence is there to support each view?
- How is the distress described in verses 24-27 different from that described in verses 5-23?
- Many people throughout the ages have tried to make precise predictions about the return of Jesus. How does watching as Jesus urges differ from making such predictions?
Applying the Word
- What relevance do the warnings and encouragements in verses 5-13 have for us today?
- In what area of your life do you need to "be on guard"?
- In what practical ways can we be alert for Jesus' return?
Responding in Prayer
Spend some time in praise and thanksgiving for the promises in this passage.
For Further Study
End Times by R. Paul Stevens