Day 50: Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple
On September 11, 2001, two planes were taken over by terrorists and flown into the two tallest buildings in New York City—the “Twin Towers” of the World Trade Center. No one was expecting this. The day before, it would have been impossible for people to imagine this happening. Thousands of people died in this terrible attack. In our passage today, Jesus warns His disciples that the most impressive building in their country is going to be destroyed. Unlike the Twin Towers, this building wasn’t the business center of their country—it was the religious center.
What does one of Jesus’ disciples point out as they are leaving the temple (v. 1)?
What does Jesus say about the stones of the temple (v. 2)?
The temple in Jerusalem was a massive and extremely impressive building. Jesus’ claim that it was going to be destroyed would have been completely shocking news for His disciples. But it’s exactly what happens in AD 70. The Romans retake Jerusalem after a Jewish rebellion against Roman rule, and they destroy the temple.
What do Peter, James, John, and Andrew ask Jesus privately (v. 4)?
What does Jesus warn them people will do in verse 5?
Jesus teaches that one day He will come back to earth again as universal Lord of all. But, in this passage, He’s warning His disciples not to believe people when they claim He’s already come back again.
What does Jesus warn His disciples will happen in verse 8?
What does Jesus tell His disciples will happen to them in verse 9?
In the book of Acts, Jesus’ disciples experience all the things that Jesus warns them about here.
What does Jesus say must happen (v. 10)?
What does Jesus say His disciples shouldn’t worry about when they are arrested and brought to trial (v. 11)?
What reason does Jesus give for why His disciples shouldn’t worry about what they will say (v. 11)?
What does Jesus say will happen in people’s families (v. 12)?
How does Jesus say people will feel about His disciples because of Him (v. 13)?
What does Jesus say will happen to anyone who stands firm, despite being hated (v. 13)?
How does the warning and promise in verse 13 encourage you as you stand for Jesus in front of friends or family members who disagree with your beliefs?
Pray for the Lord’s help as you stand for your faith in Jesus at school or in your neighborhood. Pray for other Christians around the world today who face imprisonment and beatings for being Christians, just like Jesus’ first disciples did. Thank God that He has sent His Holy Spirit to help us even today as we share our faith in Jesus with others who might hate us for it.