Mark 13:14-23 Flee From The Wrath To Come

Whether you brave the cold and come or watch from home, we will continue studying Mark 13. After foretelling the temple’s destruction, the disciples ask Jesus when this will happen and what the sign will be that these things are about to occur. In verses 5-13, Jesus gives them no specific sign to watch for but tells them about the ongoing events that will occur before the destruction—things that will happen throughout every generation: wars, rumors of wars, earthquakes, famines, and persecution. These are not signs that Jerusalem’s destruction or the final judgment is near. Now, in verses 14-23, Jesus provides the disciples with a sign to watch for and explains what they must do (flee to the mountains) when they see it. The sign is the abomination of desolation. Since this chapter is quite controversial with many different viewpoints, I will take some time this Sunday to show why I believe verses 14-23 mainly discuss the destruction of Jerusalem, and verses 24-27 are Jesus foretelling His second coming. It’s not enough to just say "this means that." In these difficult passages, I think it’s necessary to show how we reach our conclusions. However, if we only focus on the history of Jerusalem’s destruction, the meaning of the abomination of desolation, and end-times theology, we might miss what God is speaking to us today through this text. So, while we will discuss all those details for clarity, our main focus in preaching and application will be on what Christ is calling us to do now and how we can follow Him more faithfully. Whether you join us in person or watch online, I hope you will join us to worship God and listen to His Word speak to us today. I. What Is The Abomination Of Desolation? (v. 14) II. Determine to Obey Christ’s Word In Tribulations (v. 14-17) III. Depend Upon God’s Grace & Goodness In Tribulations (v. 18-20) IV. Do Not Be Deceived & Turn Back In Tribulations (v. 21-23)