THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 26,

The Plot to Kill Jesus, Precious Ointment, Judas, Last Passover, The Lord’s Supper, The Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus’ Betrayal, Caiaphas, Peter’s Denials

If this were a play, now begins the drama. And therein lies a problem with how the following real life events have been retold. They have been told and retold with such a mind-numbing frequency, that many authors have turned their efforts into a competition, taking literary license.  Even within the church community, poorly done plays and inaccurately retold ‘stories’ are desensitizing even the most ardent followers of Christ.

Instead, what you are about to read is a prophetic reality that has been lying in wait, dormant for thousands of years, and is now emerging, which will set in motion a cascade of events, increasing in intensity, such as the world has never seen before and will never see again. It is urgent that the reader use these following chapters to inform and prepare themselves for what is upon us.

The Plot to Kill Jesus

Matthew 26:1, When Jesus had finished all these words, He said to His disciples, Verse 2. “You know that after two days the Passover is coming, and the Son of Man is to be handed over for crucifixion.”

(Commentary Break): This is the fourth time Jesus has informed his disciples of  His impending death. Additionally, there are at least twenty-eight prophecies found iun the Old Testament concerning Jesus’ death, so most Jews, and particularly the Pharisees, the Sadducees and Jesus’ disciples should have been aware of the significance of what Jesus was telling them. But it was ‘business as usual’. Each group focused on their own needs or agenda. But make no mistake, the world was about to be impacted and changed irreversibly.

How about you? Has it been ‘business as usual for you’, or have you been paying close attention or have you been focused on your own needs and agenda? Because if you are reading this, you and every person on the earth are nearing the cataclysmic climax of these events. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 3. At that time the chief priests and the elders of the people were gathered together in the courtyard of the high priest named Caiaphas; verse 4, and they plotted together to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him. Verse 5. But they were saying, “Not during the festival, otherwise a riot might occur among the people.”

(Commentary Break): There is much conjecture about the kind of mindset and the kind of people who  would collectively decide to murder a man who’s only guilt was to call out the corruption of the existing religious order; a man whose transgression was going about in all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every sickness among the people; all who were ill, those suffering with various diseases and severe pain, demon-possessed, people with epilepsy, and people who were paralyzed. Jesus’ greatest transgression in the minds of His adversaries however,  was that He claimed to be the Son of God! Please think about this. What kind of people in our world today would endorse the killing of a person or a group of people whose only real offense is that they claim to know the truth? Because they exists and they are among us and they may well be coming for you, too! (End Commentary Break).

The Precious Ointment

Verse 6. Now when Jesus was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the Leper, verse 7, a woman came to Him with an alabaster vial of very expensive perfume, and she poured it on His head as He was reclining at the table. Verse 8. But the disciples were indignant when they saw this, and said, “Why this waste? Verse 9. For this perfume could have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.” Verse 10. But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why are you bothering the woman? For she has done a good deed for Me. Verse 11. For you always have the poor with you; but you do not always have Me. Verse 12. For when she poured this perfume on My body, she did it to prepare Me for burial. Verse 13. Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told in memory of her.”

(Commentary Break): Jesus is telling His disciples, now for the fifth time, of His coming death. Yet they continue to be fixated on their personal needs and matters of the natural world.

Then, amazingly, Jesus announces the Gospel! This Good News has been prophesied in the Old Testament which the Jews know:

Psalms 96:2 – Sing to the LORD, bless His name; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day.

 Isaiah 40:9 – Go up on a high mountain, Zion, messenger of good news, Raise your voice forcefully, Jerusalem, messenger of good news; Raise it up, do not fear. Say to the cities of Judah, “Here is your God!”

 Isaiah 52:7 – How delightful on the mountains Are the feet of one who brings good news, Who announces peace And brings good news of happiness, Who announces salvation, And says to Zion, “Your God reigns!”

 Isaiah 60:6 – “A multitude of camels will cover you, The young camels of Midian and Ephah; All those from Sheba will come; They will bring gold and frankincense, And proclaim good news of the praises of the LORD.

 Isaiah 61:1 – The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, Because the LORD anointed me To bring good news to the humble; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim release to captives And freedom to prisoners;

Nahum 1:15 – Behold, on the mountains, the feet of him who brings good news, Who announces peace! Celebrate your feasts, Judah, Pay your vows. For never again will the wicked one pass through you; He is eliminated completely.”

The majority of Jews of that day knew of these things, and had been praying, teaching and eagerly anticipating the coming of their Messiah, particularly the educated Jews, such as the scribes, the Pharisees and the Sadducees – the very ones accusing and scandalizing Jesus. Did they misunderstand? Did they refuse to see? Either way,  Matthew 8:11-12 tells us this, “And I say to you that many will come from east and west, and dine at the table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven; but the sons of the kingdom will be thrown out into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

Now the Light is on. No one will be able to hide from the Truth. It has begun. What will be your answer? (End Commentary Break).

Judas’ Scandalous Bargain

Verse 14. Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests, verse 15, and said, “What are you willing to give me to betray Jesus to you?” And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver (valued at approximately seven hundred dollars in today’s U.S. currency). Verse 16. And from then on he looked for a good opportunity to betray Jesus.

Verse 17. Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?” Verse 18. And He said, “Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, “My time is near; I am keeping the Passover at your house with My disciples.”’” The disciples did as Jesus had directed them; and they prepared the Passover.

The Last Passover

Verse 20. Now when evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the twelve. Verse 21. And as they were eating, He said, “Truly I say to you that one of you will betray Me.” Verse 22. Being deeply grieved, they began saying to Him, each one: “Surely it is not I, Lord?” Verse 23. And He answered, “He who dipped his hand with Me in the bowl is the one who will betray Me. Verse 24. The Son of Man is going away just as it is written about Him; but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born.” Verse 25. And Judas, who was betraying Him, said, “Surely it is not I, Rabbi?” Jesus said to him, “You have said it yourself.”

(Commentary Break): There are no coincidences in prophetic scriptures, and the fact that this is occurring on the First Day of Unleavened Bread, leading up to the day of Passover should not escape our attention. Jesus is the Passover Lamb. He is celebrating the completion of His Mission. Now we, in the twenty-first century call it ‘easter’. This too, is scandalous!

Imagine with me being at this meal, knowing what you know today. What would you have been thinking? What would you now do? (End Commentary Break).

The Lord’s Supper Instituted

Verse 26. Now while they were eating, Jesus took some bread, and after a blessing, He broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is My body.” Verse  27. And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; verse 28, for this is My blood of the covenant, which is being poured out for many for forgiveness of sins. Verse 29. But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it with you, new, in My Father’s kingdom.”

Verse 30. And after singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

(Commentary Break): Jesus has spoken and revealed this deepest of mysteries. He says you are ‘to eat His Body and to drink His Blood’. That is, we are to consume His Words, absorb His voice as if they are the flesh of the Son of Man and drink in His presence, His nature, His being and His existence as if it is His blood, and you have life in yourselves.  The one who consumes His Words (The Breath of God) as if they are eating His flesh and drinks in His presence as if it is His blood, has eternal life; and He will raise you up on the last day.  For His flesh is true food, and His blood is true drink. The one who eats His ‘flesh’ and drinks His ‘blood’ dwells in and remains in Him, and He in you. Just as God the Father sent Jesus, and He lives because of the Father, if you consume Jesus and all that HE IS, you also will live because of Him. Jesus is that Bread that came down out of heaven – not the same bread as the Jewish fathers ate and died; eat This Bread, you will live forever. (See John 6:53-58). It has been said that we become what we eat and we are as we think. This is indeed the case now! (End Commentary Break).

Verse 31. Then Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away because of Me this night, for it is written: ‘I WILL STRIKE THE SHEPHERD, AND THE SHEEP OF THE FLOCK WILL BE SCATTERED (also see Zechariah 13:7).’ Verse 32. But after I have been raised, I will go ahead of you to Galilee.” Verse 33. But Peter replied to Him, “Even if they all fall away because of You, I will never fall away!” Verse 34. Jesus said to him, “Truly I say to you that this very night, before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” Verse 35. Peter said to Him, “Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!” All the disciples said the same thing as well.

(Commentary Break): First, Jesus tells His disciples they will all ‘fall away’. This is NOT the same as the coming great apostasy, (apostasia), a falling away from the faith, as reference to in 2 Thessalonians 2:3. This falling away (skandalizó, from whence we get our word, “scandal”), although similar to the ‘apostasia’, is the act of someone stumbling or falling into sin, perhaps due to a scandal. Jesus’ accusers attempt to make a scandal of His life, His Words, His claims and His deeds. The Pharisees and Sadducees promote lies and claims of fraud and deceit against Jesus, even going as far to say that His is an emissary of the Devil. Being associated with this kind of scandal can often lead someone into error or causing them to be offended in a way that leads them away from faith or righteous living. The term often carries a moral or spiritual connotation, indicating a serious hindrance to one’s relationship with God.

How about you? Have you been intimated? Are you fearful, timid or reluctant to be associated with Jesus? Be reminded that the Apostle Paul says, “But remember the former days, when, after being enlightened, you endured a great conflict of sufferings, partly by being made a public spectacle through insults and distress, and partly by becoming companions with those who were so treated. For you showed sympathy to the prisoners and accepted joyfully the seizure of your property, knowing that you have for yourselves a better and lasting possession. Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. 

FOR YET IN A VERY LITTLE WHILE, HE WHO IS COMING WILL COME, AND WILL NOT DELAY. BUT MY RIGHTEOUS ONE WILL LIVE BY FAITH; AND IF HE SHRINKS BACK, MY SOUL HAS NO PLEASURE IN HIM. But we are not among those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith for the safekeeping of the soul.” (see Hebrews 10:32-39).

Are you willing to proclaim, like Paul, that “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ because it is power of God for salvation to everyone who believes”? Proudly endure it “when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Jesus. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in this same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (see Matthew 5:11). (End Commentary Break).

The Garden of Gethsemane

Verse 36. Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane (meaning ‘oil press), and told His disciples, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” Verse 37. And He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee with Him, and began to be grieved and distressed. Verse 38. Then He said to them, “My soul is deeply grieved, to the point of death; remain here and keep watch with Me.”

Verse 39. And He went a little beyond them, and fell on His face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will.” Verse 40. And He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and He said to Peter, “So, you men could not keep watch with Me for one hour? Verse 41. Keep watching and praying, so that you do not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

Verse 42. He went away again a second time and prayed, saying, “My Father, if this cup cannot pass away unless I drink from it, Your will be done.” Verse 43. Again He came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. Verse 44. And He left them again, and went away and prayed a third time, saying the same thing once more. Verse 45. Then He came to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. Verse 46. Get up, let’s go; behold, the one who is betraying Me is near!”

(Commentary Break): Luke’s account of this event (Luke 22:44), tells us that Jesus’ sweat became like great drops of blood, and many mistakenly believe Jesus actually sweated blood. There are many commentaries that try to explain that such great stress as Jesus was facing would cause capillaries and blood vessels to burst. But this is clearly not the case. The description in the book of Luke is carefully phrased as an idiom: It clearly and carefully says that “His sweat became LIKE”. I have heard many Christians say that Jesus was fearful, that sweating drops of blood was a sign of great fear. Please purge any such thoughts from your mind. Fear is the antithesis and an anathema of faith. Jesus NEVER suffered fear. Jesus was grieved. The two Greek words used here for ‘grieved’, in verse 37 is ‘lupeó’, which means to be in pain, to grieve, to experience sorrow and distress; and in verse 38, ‘perilupos’, which means to be deeply distressed, exceedingly sorrowful, very sad, a sense of being overwhelmed by grief or sadness, often in response to a significant or impending event. The New Testament uses these words to express the deep emotional turmoil experienced by individuals in moments of great trial or anticipation of suffering. Jesus is both man and God. This grief and grieving is the human side of Jesus.

This is perhaps a good example for those of us who might face times of great trials. Experiencing sorrows, distresses, sadness may cause a sense of being overwhelmed by grief or sadness in response to a significant or impending event. These are normal human emotions. But fear it is not! Jesus knows that His Father is the author and finisher! Fear Not!

I feel that the rest these verses speak clearly enough that any additional commentary would be superfluous. (End Commentary Break).

Jesus’ Scandalous Betrayal and Arrest

Verse 47. And while He was still speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, came accompanied by a large crowd with swords and clubs, who came from the chief priests and elders of the people. Verse 48. Now he who was betraying Him gave them a sign previously, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the one; arrest Him.” Verse 49. And immediately Judas went up to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him. Verse 50. But Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you have come for.” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and arrested Him.

Verse 51. And behold, one of those who were with Jesus reached and drew his sword, and struck the slave of the high priest and cut off his ear. Verse 52. Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place; for all those who take up the sword will perish by the sword. Verse 53. Or do you think that I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels? Verse 54. How then would the Scriptures be fulfilled, which say that it must happen this way?”

Verse 55. At that time Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest Me as you would against a man inciting a revolt? Every day I used to sit within the temple grounds teaching, and you did not arrest Me. Verse 56. But all this has taken place so that the Scriptures of the prophets will be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples left Him and fled.

Jesus before the Scandals of Caiaphas

Verse 57. Those who had arrested Jesus led Him away to Caiaphas, the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were gathered together.

Verse 58. But Peter was following Him at a distance, as far as the courtyard of the high priest, and he came inside and sat down with the officers to see the outcome.

Verse 59. Now the chief priests and the entire Council kept trying to obtain false testimony against Jesus, so that they might put Him to death. Verse 60. They did not find any, even though many false witnesses came forward. But later on two came forward, verse 61, and said, “This man stated, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God and to rebuild it in three days.’” Verse 62. The high priest stood up and said to Him, “Do You offer no answer for what these men are testifying against You?” Verse 63. But Jesus kept silent. And the high priest said to Him, “I place You under oath by the living God, to tell us whether You are the Christ, the Son of God.” Verse 64. Jesus said to him, “You have said it yourself. But I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.”

Verse 65. Then the high priest tore his robes and said, “He has blasphemed! What further need do we have of witnesses? See, you have now heard the blasphemy; verse 66, what do you think?” They answered, “He deserves death!”

Verse 67. Then they spit in His face and beat Him with their fists; and others slapped Him, verse 68, and said, “Prophesy to us, You Christ; who is the one who hit You?”

Peter’s Scandalous Denials

Verse 69. Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard, and a slave woman came to him and said, “You too were with Jesus the Galilean.” Verse 70. But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you are talking about.” Verse 71. When he had gone out to the gateway, another slave woman saw him and said to those who were there, “This man was with Jesus of Nazareth.” Verse 72. And again he denied it, with an oath: “I do not know the man.” Verse 73. A little later the bystanders came up and said to Peter, “You really are one of them as well, since even the way you talk gives you away, Verse 74. Then he began to curse and swear, “I do not know the man!” And immediately a rooster crowed. Verse 75. And Peter remembered the statement that Jesus had made: “Before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly.

Key Words in this chapter: #The Plot to Kill Jesus, #Precious Ointment, #Judas, #The Last Passover, #The Lord’s Supper, #The Garden of Gethsemane, #Jesus’ Betrayal, #Caiaphas, #Peter’s Denials.

There has never been a greater scandal nor a deeper tragedy than the events found in this and preceding chapters that have led us to this point, and matters will only intensify. But this is the cost of our redemption. It should never, in our minds, become rote, routine or dulled by repetition. I pray that even the mention of the events surrounding Jesus’ death, resurrection and His ascension would fill us with deep amazement, inexpressible gratitude and eternal joy!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 25, Ten Virgins, The Talents, Judgement.

NEXT: (coming soon). THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 27, Judas’ Remorse, Jesus Before Pilate, Jesus Mocked, The Crucifixion, Jesus Burial.

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 25

Ten Virgins, The Talents, Judgement

This chapter begins with the word ‘then’, indicating that this chapter is a continuation of the previous chapter. Remember that chapter 24 is about Jesus’ glorious return, the parable of the fig tree and knowing the season of His return, and a caution to be ready for His coming’. Now Jesus continues in this vein, concluding with the starkest of warnings. Please dear friends, let’s not make the mistake of thinking this is just a ‘story’ or a gentle parable or a simple narrative of events. This is a dire warning.

(Please note:  A typical or traditional Bible commentary is a series of notes about passages of Scriptures from the Bible, explaining the meaning of those passages of Scripture. A commentary may explain the language used in a section of text. Or it may discuss the historical background. Almost all commentaries attempt to explain the passage in terms of some system of theology. In other words, the commentary is an explanation of how the Bible fits together and what it means. Since a Bible commentary is written by human authors, it will reflect the beliefs and perspective of those writers.

This study is not that kind of commentary. This is meant to be a study of the Bible as a letter written specifically to you for your instruction through teaching, rebuke, correction, and training in righteousness so that you, as a man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work, and not just a study about the Bible.

The distinction here is that a study about the Bible will give you information, with which you may decide what it means and even what it may mean to you. It may even lead you to adopt certain principles for your life. But, it is still largely information collected but not fully utilized for the reason it was given to us. (You can find many good Bible Reference and Commentary sources online that tell all about the Bible).

On the other hand, a study OF the Bible means that you are intent on consuming the words, thoughts, ideas, teachings, actions and behaviors found in the Bible, as one would eat food and take drink for nourishment and as sustenance. Another way of saying, ‘You become what you eat’. And in this instance. A study of the Bible will lead you to discover and partake, (eat and drink), the instructional, creative, causative and prophetic nature of the words of the Bible.

Jesus says as much when He said, “I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the Bread that comes down out of heaven, so that anyone may eat from it and not die. I am the living bread that came down out of heaven; if anyone eats from this bread, he will live forever; and the bread which I will give for the life of the world also is My flesh.”

“Jesus said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in yourselves. The one who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For My flesh is true food, and My blood is true drink. The one who eats My flesh and drinks My blood remains in Me, and I in him. Just as the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, the one who eats Me, he also will live because of Me. This is the bread that came down out of heaven, not as the fathers ate and died; the one who eats this bread will live forever.” (See John 6:41-58).

Do this and the Word of God will speak the Truth to you and through you. By this, you are being transformed into the image and attitude of Jesus. You will never be the same.

That is also the intention and purpose of what I call “Commentary Breaks” in this study. They are intended to direct you into a study of the words of the Bible that lead you into a close, personal, interactive and conversational relationship with God.  (Links are also provided for greater insights, details, credits, citations and verification of scripture passages.)

Parable of Ten Virgins

Matthew 25:1, “Then the kingdom of heaven will be comparable to ten virgins, who took their lamps and went out to meet the groom. Verse 2. Five of them were foolish, and five were prudent. Verse 3. For when the foolish took their lamps, they did not take extra oil with them; verse 4, but the prudent ones took oil in flasks with their lamps. Verse 5. Now while the groom was delaying, they all became drowsy and began to sleep. Verse 6. But at midnight there finally was a shout: ‘Behold, the groom! Come out to meet him.’ Verse 7. Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. Verse 8. But the foolish virgins said to the prudent ones, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’ Verse 9. However, the prudent ones answered, ‘No, there most certainly would not be enough for us and you too; go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.’ Verse 10. But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the groom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut. Verse 11. Yet later, the other virgins also came, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open up for us.’ Verse 12. But he answered, ‘Truly I say to you, I do not know you.’ Verse 13. Be on the alert then, because you do not know the day nor the hour.

(Commentary Break): The wording, “The Kingdom of Heaven is comparable to”, tells us this is a parable, a simple story illustrating a moral or religious lesson. However, since this is also a purposeful teaching and a Prophetic Word from Jesus, it bears far more weight and force that a simple parable.

This teaching binds, (that is it permits and manifests), on the earth, (which is the natural realm in which we live), what has already been bound, (confirmed and initiated) in heaven, (which is the spiritual realm, the creative realm where all things originate).

Beside the point, that the number ten has significant symbolism as a number of perfection and completion, the spiritual significance of the ten virgins in this teaching, is meant to represent you and every other person who claims to be a disciple and follower of Jesus.

Ten is the number of perfection; such a number of persons was required to form a synagogue, and to be present at any office, ceremony, or formal benediction. Talmudic authorities affirm that the lamps used in bridal processions were usually ten. The “virgins” here are the friends of the bride, who are arranged to sally forth to meet the bridegroom as soon as his approach is signaled.

More significant is that all ten appear to be and are titled as virgins. The spiritual significance of being a virgin represents purity, fidelity, and being undefiled. The perfection and purity is only made possible by the cleansing effect of the sacrificial blood of Christ, which was poured out and over you.

This parable, about a wedding feast, represents the time of the return of Christ for His Bride, the Church. But the larger meaning and message is about the necessity for believers and followers of Jesus to be in a continual state of readiness anticipating His return.

All the virgins represented have oil lamps. The lamps represent the light of Christ fueled perhaps by the oil of the Holy Spirit of God. But surprisingly, the five foolish virgins would run out of oil for their lamps. The question to be asked is, “Can a Christian run out of the oil of the Holy Spirit’? It would seem so from this parable.

The foolish virgins, while absent, searching to purchase more oil, returned late and were excluded from the wedding feast, and were locked out. No true, blood-bought virgin of Christ, which is every man, woman, boy and girl, who have received Christ Jesus as their savior and have humbly submitted themselves to His Lordship, will be left out of the Great Wedding Feast (also see GotQuestions.Org).

Furthermore, the foolish virgins were not left out just because they were late. It was because they lived their lives unprepared for His return.

There are many in our churches today who consider themselves as ‘born again believers’, but are not actually doing what Jesus taught, demonstrated and commanded them. And on that day of the Great Marriage Supper, they will find the door shut and will hear the tragic words, ‘Truly I say to you, I do not know you.’

The five virgins who are prudent and were living in a state of readiness. They are compared and contrasted to five who are foolish and are unprepared. Once again, all are virgins. But now Jesus reveals an earthshaking and a prophetic truth emerges by way of a comparison:

Although you may consider yourself a ‘virgin among the ten’, if you are not ready when He returns, that is to be found doing what He has commanded, you will be left behind.

We know of the parables of the sheep and the goats which mingled together until God’s judgement, and of the wheat and the tares which grew in the same field (the Church) until God’s judgement. Now you also know that being and doing are not the same as believing. If you believe Him, you will obey Him and you will be ready when He returns.

Now to the focal point of this parable (and the next parable), which is about your readiness. All these comparisons are like a mirror for you to look at yourself and decide. Which are you? The wise and prudent or the foolish one? Be honest with yourself and choose wisely. The consequence is grave. (End Commentary Break).

Parable of the Talents

Verse 14. “For it is just like a man about to go on a journey, who called his own slaves and entrusted his possessions to them. Verse 15. To one he gave five talents, to another, two, and to another, one, each according to his own ability; and he went on his journey. Verse 16. The one who had received the five talents immediately went and did business with them, and earned five more talents. Verse 17. In the same way the one who had received the two talents earned two more. Verse 18. But he who received the one talent went away and dug a hole in the ground, and hid his master’s money.

Verse 19. “Now after a long time the master of those slaves came and settled accounts with them. Verse 20. The one who had received the five talents came up and brought five more talents, saying, ‘Master, you entrusted five talents to me. See, I have earned five more talents.’ Verse 21. His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter the joy of your master.’

Verse 22. “Also the one who had received the two talents came up and said, ‘Master, you entrusted two talents to me. See, I have earned two more talents.’ Verse 23. His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter the joy of your master.’

Verse 24. “Now the one who had received the one talent also came up and said, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter seed. Verse 25. And I was afraid, so I went away and hid your talent in the ground. See, you still have what is yours.’

Verse 26. “But his master answered and said to him, ‘You worthless, lazy slave! Did you know that I reap where I did not sow, and gather where I did not scatter seed? Verse 27. Then you ought to have put my money in the bank, and on my arrival I would have received my money back with interest. Verse 28. Therefore: take the talent away from him, and give it to the one who has the ten talents.’

Verse 29. “For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away. Verse 30. And throw the worthless slave into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

The Judgment

Verse 31. “But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. Verse 32. And all the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, just as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; verse 33, and He will put the sheep on His right, but the goats on the left.

Verse 34. “Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. Verse 35. For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; verse 36, naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.’ Verse 37. Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? Verse 38. And when did we see You as a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? Verse 39. And when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ Verse 40. And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of Mine, you did it for Me.’

Verse 41. “Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, you accursed people, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels; verse 42, for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; verse 43, I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.’ Verse 44. Then they themselves also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or as a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not take care of You?’ Verse 45. Then He will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it for one of the least of these, you did not do it for Me, either.’ Verse 46. These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

What more could Jesus say to instruct and warn all who profess the Name of Christ? Many are called but few are chosen!

The litmus test is in the works. Are you doing the works He prepared ahead of time for you to walk in?

So ask yourself, Christian. And ask yourself, pastor. When was the last time you personally witnessed Jesus to someone? Fed a hungry person? Cared for a widow? Preached, saying, ‘Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand’, healed the sick, raised the dead, cleansed those with leprosy, cast out demons? Do you freely give, or are you busy acquiring gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, or a bag for your journey?

The power, grace and mercy of God flows freely to and through the obedient, wise and prudent servant of God.

Key words to consider: #The right hand or the left hand of God, #Sheep and goats, #wheat and tares, #the wise and the foolish. #The wedding feast and #the closed door. #Outer darkness and gnashing of teeth. #Eternal punishment. #Enter the joy of your master. #Eternal life.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 24, verses 29-51, Part 3

NEXT: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 26, The Plot to Kill Jesus, Precious Ointment, Judas, Last Passover, The Lord’s Supper, The Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus’ Betrayal, Caiaphas, Peter’s Denials.

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Part 3

Chapter 24, verses 29-51

The Great Tribulation Begins, His Glorious Return, The Parable of the Fig Tree, Be Ready for His Coming

 Matthew 24:29,. “But immediately after the tribulation of those days THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Verse 30. And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory. Verse 31. And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT TRUMPET BLAST, and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.

(Commentary Break): These are some of the most read yet most overlooked and misunderstood verses regarding the second advent of Christ. These verses are clearly written and easy to understand, yet amazingly, most theologians somehow ignore the plain language of Jesus second appearing, and consider Revelation 19:11-21, when Jesus appears in the heavens on a white horse, He judges and wages war as His second coming.

NOTE: The wording clearly states, in Matthew 24:30 that this is His second appearing and He will gather together His elect, and this is the perfect description of the anticipated rapture! “And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory. And He will send forth His angels with a great trumpet blast, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.”

 NOTE: The wording in Revelation 19:11-21 clearly states that He is appearing to wage war, to strike down the nations, and to rule them with a rod of iron. “And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war.  His eyes are a flame of fire, and on His head are many crowns; and He has a name written on Him which no one knows except Himself.  He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.  And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, were following Him on white horses. From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written: “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”

Secondly, and just as important, is the literal nature of Verse 29, which must not be overlooked or ignored. “But immediately after the tribulation of those days”. When? And, which days? Immediately after the days of tribulation which Jesus has just described in the verses six through twelve, which Jesus calls the Birth Pains of the tribulation. He is saying immediately after the first five tribulation scroll seals, referring to wars and rumors of war; nations rising against nations; death from wars, famines, plagues, earthquakes; persecutions and martyrdoms.

Immediately after the tribulation of those days, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.  And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory. And He will send forth His angels with a great trumpet blast, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.

Great worldwide earthquakes and upheavals of the earth’s surface, the blotting out of the sun, the moon turning blood red in color, accompanied by cataclysmic cosmic disturbances, including clusters of asteroids hitting the earth. This is the breaking of the Sixth Tribulation Seal and the beginning of the Seven years of Great Tribulation, also known as the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and the Wrath of the Lamb.

It is important to know this, so you too can see all these things and recognize that He is near, right at the door. There is no time to wait. You must be ready, now! (End Commentary Break).

Parable of the Fig Tree

Verse 32. “Now learn the parable from the fig tree: as soon as its branch has become tender and sprouts its leaves, you know that summer is near; verse 33, so you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door. Verse 34. Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. Verse 35. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.

(Commentary Break): Jesus uses a simile to compare the unmistakable changes of earth’s seasons to the changes of the eschatological seasons, and tells us that when we see these changes, we will know that Jesus is near, in fact He is at our very gates.

AN IMPORTANT CHRONOLOGICAL MARKER:  Jesus emphasizes this point, telling us that this generation, the generation, which actaully translates as an era or an epoch that follows the unmistakable signs of his return, will not pass away until all the things to come, take place. This is the urgent message that with the breaking of the 6th Tribulation Seal, we will have entered the final seven years of the Great Tribulation, the great and terrible day of the Lord, also known as Daniel’s 70th week. (You can get even a better understanding of the meaning of these verses by reading Daniel chapter 12.) (End Commentary Break).

Verse 36. “But about that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. Verse 37. For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. Verse 38. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, verse 39, and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be. Verse 40. At that time there will be two men in the field; one will be taken and one will be left. Verse 41. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one will be left.

(Commentary Break): I will say little more than this is Jesus’ description, by way of a simile, of describing the coming rapture of God’s elect I will say little more than this is Jesus’ description, by way of a simile, of describing the coming rapture of God’s elect. He will  (from the Greek word, harpazó), ‘seize, catch up, snatch us away’, out of the way of harm and into His Eternal Presence. (End Commentary Break).

Be Ready for His Coming

Verse 42. “Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. Verse 43. But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. Verse 44. For this reason you must be ready as well; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will.

(Commentary Break): All having been said, Jesus warns, “Therefore be on the alert”. He uses a metaphor comparing the stealth of a thief in the night to His return. It will be sudden and at an unexpected time. And, just like in the case of the thief, if you are not prepared, your most valued possessions, your family and your loved ones,  will be plundered. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 45. “Who then is the faithful and sensible slave whom his master put in charge of his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Verse 46. Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes. Verse 47. Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions. Verse 48. But if that evil slave says in his heart, ‘My master is not coming for a long time,’ verse 49, and he begins to beat his fellow slaves, and he eats and drinks with those habitually drunk; verse 50, then the master of that slave will come on a day that he does not expect, and at an hour that he does not know, verse 51, and he will cut him in two and assign him a place with the hypocrites; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

(Commentary Break): Warning! These verses, forty-five through fifty-one, could be explained in various ways, such as, who indeed, is the ‘faithful and sensible slave’? The clear and obvious answer is that he is one who put in charge of the master’s ‘household’. A metaphor, for sure, but a clear picture, first, of one entrusted with the House of God, His Church. (This could also be considered to be one entrusted with his own household, but more likely, one who has assumed greater responsibilities in the Household of God).

Please read and re-read verses forty-six through forty-nine. These verses are both instructional for the servant over the household and the servants within the household. The primary message is one of encouragement to the faithful servant who provides food, (spiritual, mental and emotional nourishment and maintenance) and a warning to the unfaithful and evil servant, a controlling tyrant, a manipulator, and even a drunk.

These are also instructions to the servants AND member within the household. The faithful servant is appointed by God, and you should listen to him. But you should flee the evil servant, even if it means giving up convenience and comfort or risk suffering the inevitable consequences. (I have seen this happen in far too many churches, as the pastor gets ‘drunk with his own importance, his own agenda, and his own luxury’. Be warned. The signs may be subtle at first, but do not become ensnared. It will become worse, and you could be trapped.)

The final verse should be ample warning for the pastor or church leaders who think they are ‘the anointed of God’ or that they are important in their own rights. When Jesus returns “He will cut this errant and evil servant in two and assign him a place with the hypocrites; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth”. ( End Commentary Break).

All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, rebuke, for correction and for training in righteousness; so that you, the man or woman of God, may be fully capable and equipped for every good work.

These chapters and verses, in particular, are the pathways into His kingdom, both now and eternally. They are especially salient and relevant to your everyday life, ‘as a lamp unto your feet’, guiding your through the darkness of this world, and through the thickets of life. Follow Him and His Words to safety and success.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 24, verses 15-28, Part 2, Perilous Times.

NEXT: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 25, Ten Virgins, The Talents, Judgement.

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Part 2

Chapter 24, verse 15-28

Perilous Times

Jesus, having just enumerated the signs of His coming and the events leading up to the end of the age, is now describing what comes after the tribulation of those days:

Matthew 24:15, Therefore when you see the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place, let the reader understand, verse 16, then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains. Verse 17. Whoever is on the housetop must not go down to get things out of his house. Verse 18. And whoever is in the field must not turn back to get his cloak. Verse 19. But woe to those women who are pregnant, and to those who are nursing babies in those days! Verse 20. Moreover, pray that when you flee, it will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath. Verse 21. For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will again.

(Commentary Break): An ‘abomination’ is “something that causes disgust or hatred”; and ‘desolation’ is “a state of complete emptiness or destruction.” Jesus warned that something (or someone) that people detested would stand in the temple someday. When that horror occurred, residents of Judea should seek cover without delay. The Amplified Bible adds the note that the abomination of desolation is “the appalling sacrilege that astonishes and makes desolate.”

Jesus referenced Daniel in His words in the Olivet Discourse. The prophet Daniel mentioned the abomination of desolation in three places:

“He will make a firm, (that is a binding and irrevocable) covenant with many for one week (which is seven years), but in the middle of the week, (that is, after three and one half years) he will put a stop to (the regular Jewish) sacrifice and (grain) offering. And the abomination, (that is, a disgusting thing or person, causing hatred and creating) desolation, (a state of complete emptiness complete and utter destruction), will be on a wing, (or on the pinnacle or the extremity) of the temple until the decreed destruction is (also) poured out on the desolator, (the one who causes these horrors).” (Daniel 9:27).

“Forces shall be mustered by him, and they shall defile the sanctuary fortress; then they shall take away the daily sacrifices, and place there the abomination of desolation” (Daniel 11:31, NKJV).

“From the time that the regular sacrifice is abolished and the abomination of desolation is set up, there will be 1,290 days” (Daniel 12:11, NASB).

The wording in the above translations indicates that the abomination of desolation is an object; in some other translations, the abomination appears to be a person: “On the wing (or at the pinnacle or the height) of abominations shall come one who makes desolate” (Daniel 9:27, ESV).

Regardless of whether the abomination of desolation is a person or a thing, Daniel predicted the following:

 1.  A future ruler will make a treaty with the people of Israel, which should occur sometime before the breaking of the Sixth Tribulation Seal, (see Matthew 24:29-31 and Revelation 6:12-17), which could occur at any time prior to the Second Coming of Christ as written in Matthew 24:30, and the rapture, but only after the “Man of Lawlessness”, the antichrist, is revealed (see 2 Thessalonians 3:4.)

2.  The terms of this treaty will be for a “week”, is taken to be a period of seven years (which is beginning at the breaking of the Sixth Tribulation Seal).

3.  Midway through this time, the ruler will gather his troops and put an end to the sacrifices and offerings in the temple (which occurs at the blowing of the Sixth Tribulation Trumpet).

4.  At that time, the ruler will desecrate the temple, setting up some type of sacrilegious object.

5.  The desecration of the temple will continue until the judgment of God is finally meted out on the ruler and his followers, 1,290 days (3½ years and 1 month) later (at the end of the Seventh Tribulation Bowl).

Daniel’s prophecies about the abomination of desolation had a partial fulfillment in 167 B.C. which was a foreshadowing of what was to come, when a Greek ruler by the name of Antiochus IV desecrated the temple in Jerusalem. Antiochus called himself “Epiphanies” (“illustrious one” or “god manifest”). He set up an altar to Zeus over the altar of burnt offering, and he sacrificed a pig on the altar. Antiochus went even further in his atrocities, slaughtering a great number of the Jews and selling others into slavery. And he issued decrees forbidding circumcision and requiring Jews to sacrifice to pagan gods and eat pig meat.

What Antiochus did certainly qualified as an abomination, but it was not a complete fulfillment of Daniel’s prophecy. Antiochus Epiphanies did not enter a covenant with Israel for seven years, for example. And in Matthew 24 Jesus, speaking some 200 years after Antiochus’s evil actions, spoke of Daniel’s prophecy as having a still future fulfillment.

The abomination of desolation prophecy as still future. In our view, Jesus was referring to the Antichrist who, in the end times, will establish a covenant with Israel for seven years and then break it by doing something similar to what Antiochus Epiphanies did in the temple. The sacrilegious object Jesus called “the abomination of desolation” could be the “image of the beast” that the Antichrist’s right-hand man, the false prophet, will order to be set up and worshiped (Revelation 13:14). Of course, for Matthew 24:15 to be yet future, the temple in Jerusalem will have to be rebuilt before the tribulation begins.

Those who are alive during the tribulation should be watchful and recognize that the breaking of the covenant with Israel and the abomination of desolation will herald the beginning of the worst 3½ years in history (see Matthew 24:21). “Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:36). (Note: Much of the commentary in this one section, but not all, is derived from GotQuestions.Org). (End Commentary Break).

Verse 22. And if those days had not been cut short, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short. Verse 23. Then, if anyone says to you, ‘Behold, here is the Christ,’ or ‘He is over here,’ do not believe him. Verse 24. For false christs and false prophets will arise and will provide great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect. Verse 25. Behold, I have told you in advance. Verse 26. So if they say to you, ‘Behold, He is in the wilderness,’ do not go out; or, ‘Behold, He is in the inner rooms,’ do not believe them. Verse 27. For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes as far as the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be. Verse 28. Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.

(Commentary Break): Verses 22 through 28 tell us of the deadly horrors, the stress and chaos of these days. People will grope for and grasp at any sign of hope of relief, and false christs and false prophets will offer false hope, and Jesus warns they will provide ‘great signs of wonders, so as to mislead’ you. Jesus says, “do not believe them’. Then, Jesus will appear suddenly, at an unexpected time, just like when lightning flashes across the skies, and then, at the sound of the angel’s trumpet, you will be rescued. Therein lies our hope and certainty.

Verse 28 is open to many interpretations, none of which are certain. But one idea that seems to fit nicely, can be found in Revelation 19:11-21, when Jesus appears in the heavens on a white horse, He judges and wages war and His eyes aflame with fire. An angel standing in the sun, cried out with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in mid-heaven, “Come, assemble for the great feast of God, so that you may eat the flesh of kings and the flesh of commanders, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and of those who sit on them, and the flesh of all people, both free and slaves, and small and great. And those who bore the mark of the beast were killed with the sword which came from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse, and all the birds were filled with their flesh. (End Commentary Break).

Please click on the link below to proceed with Part 2, “Perilous Times”. We will discuss the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet. This will be the triggering event for the revealing of the antichrist, the rapture and the transition from the first five tribulation seals, also named the “Birth Pains” of the tribulation, (so named by Jesus), into the final seven years of the Great Tribulation, also known as the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and The Wrath of The Lamb.

Please click on this link as we conclude Matthew chapter 24, with Part 3, “The Glorious Return, Parable of the Fig Tree, Be Ready for His Coming”. We will peer into the glorious second coming of Jesus, learn from the parable of the Fig Tree and the season of His return, and finally, what it means to get ready and to look at our responsibilities prior to His return.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

(Return to Matthew 24:1-14, The Signs of His Comine – Part 1)

THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Part 1

Chapter 24, verses 1-14

The Signs of Christ’s Return

This chapter is one of the best descriptive eschatological synopses of the sign of Jesus’ coming and the End of The Age found in the Bible. It is also one of the best, if not the best book in the New Testament, for instruction, spiritual training and for gaining discernment regarding guidance for understanding and navigating these Last Days, the End of the Age, the coming Great and Terrible Day of the Lord, also known as the coming The Wrath of the Lamb.

 Eschatology is the study of end times. The word ‘eschatology’ comes from Ancient Greek word, éskhatos, meaning ‘last’, and (logy), ‘the study of’ is about the expectations of the end of the present age, human history, or of the world itself. The end of the world or end times. You and every believer and follower of Jesus needs to know these things by heart.

Signs of Christ’s Return

Matthew 24:1 Jesus left the temple area and was going on His way when His disciples came up to point out the temple buildings to Him.

Verse 2. But He responded and said to them, “Do you not see all these things? Truly, I say to you, not one stone here will be left upon another, which will not be torn down.”

Verse 3. And as He was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”

Verse 4. And Jesus answered and said to them, “See to it that no one misleads you”.

(Commentary Break): It might seem a bit odd that such a simple observation of the temple buildings by Jesus’ disciples would provoke this response from Jesus, unless you had just read Matthew chapter twenty-three. Jesus had just had a heated exchange with the Pharisees. In that exchange Jesus denounces the Pharisees, proclaiming 8 woes over them, challenging them as being hypocrites, snakes, offspring of vipers, whitewashed tombs, and murderers of the prophets.

That encounter is reflected in His prophetic response to His disciples, “Do you not see all these things? Truly, I say to you, not one stone here will be left upon another, which will not be torn down”!

Additionally, the disciples would appear to have been taken aback, as they wait until Jesus is alone, sitting on the Mount of Olives, before re-approaching Him to ask, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”

The disciple’s question is representative of what many, Christians, Jesus disciples, have been asking over the ages: when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of His coming and of the end of the age?

I want to prepare you, the reader, to understand that, every word which Jesus spoke on this matter in these verses, are literal, although He may use a simile to make a distinction.

Jesus begins His answer with, “See to it that no one misleads you”. I want to emphasize that ‘no one’ includes people and organizations. This will become increasing relevant as the Church begins to stray, and Jesus prophetic warning of the coming apostasy. We are to be diligent, alert and able to discern or test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world (see 1 John 4:1). (End Commentary Break).

Verse 5. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will mislead many people.

(Commentary Break): I have heard many Christians, including pastors, preachers and Bible teachers say that we need to beware of those who would come along and claim to be Jesus, and that is good advice.

But, Jesus’ words are, that many will come in His name, saying, ‘I am the Christ’. Again, they will come in His Name, not necessarily using His Name. This can mean they will claim to be the Messiah, or the Anointed One, not necessarily Jesus reincarnated. Yes, the Greek word for Jesus is the transliteration of Yehoshua or Jehoshua, which means ‘Yahweh Saves’, but He is the One long anticipated by the Jews and most people will not connect the Name of Jesus specifically with the claim that they are the anticipated Messiah.

This may seem like a lesser point, but considering the prophesied great apostasy which is well under way, the rampant and spreading false teachings about God and the Bible, the spreading of false Gospels, and the millions being misled in these postmodern days, it is a significant issue.

Jesus is warning against both frauds claiming to be Him, as well as false prophets and false messiahs, whether they are individuals or groups of individuals or organizations of individuals (such as churches) claiming they are Jesus, or that they have the same authority as Jesus or that they speak for Jesus. (Examples would be the Mormons, the Jehovah’s Witnesses, The Emergent church leaders, the Worldwide Church of God (Herbert and Garner Ted Armstrong, and the scores of frauds and even those who actually claimed to be Jesus reincarnated.) (End Commentary Break).

Verse 6. And you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end.

Verse 7. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places.

Verse 8. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pains.

Verse 9. Then they will hand you over to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name.

Verse 10. And at that time many will fall away, and they will betray one another and hate one another.

Verse 11. And many false prophets will rise up and mislead many people.

Verse 12. And because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will become cold. Verse 13. But the one who endures to the end is the one who will be saved. Verse 14. This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.

(Commentary Break): Let’s itemize this summary of events shown here in Matthew chapter 24, as well as the world conditions as we move toward what will be the sign of Jesus’ coming, and of the end of the age.

1. Many will come using the name of Jesus to mislead many. (Matthew verse 5).
2. There will be wars and rumors of war. (Matthew verse 6).
   1. Also see Revelation 6:4, “And another, a red horse, went out; and to him who sat on it, it was granted to take peace from the earth, and that people would kill one another; and a large sword was given to him”).
3. But that is not yet the end.
4. Then they will hand you over to tribulation, and you will be hated because of Jesus’ Name.
   1. And, they will kill you. (Also see Revelation 6:7-9, “When the Lamb broke the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, “Come!” I looked, and behold, an ashen horse; and the one who sat on it had the name Death, and Hades was following with him. Authority was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, and famine, and plague, and by the wild animals of the earth. When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the souls of those who had been killed because of the word of God, and because of the testimony which they had maintained).
5. Many will die from famines and earthquakes. (Matthew 24:7)
6. At that time, many will fall away from the faith. (Matthew 24:10).
7. Many of you will hate one another and will betray one another. (Matthew 24:10)
8. Many false prophets will rise up and mislead many people. (Matthew 24:11).
9. Lawlessness will increase.
10. Many people’s love will grow cold.
11. These things are just the beginning of the ‘Birth Pains’ of the tribulation – Seals One through Five. (End Commentary Break).

Please click on the link below to proceed with Part 2, “Perilous Times”. We will discuss the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet. This will be the triggering event for the revealing of the antichrist, the rapture and the transition from the first five tribulation seals, also named the “Birth Pains” (phase) of the tribulation, (so named by Jesus), into the final seven years of the Great Tribulation, also known as the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and The Wrath of The Lamb.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 23, Hypocrisy Explained, The Eight Woes

NEXT: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW 24:15-28, Part 2 – Perilous Times.

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 23

Hypocrisy Exposed, The Eight Woes, Grieving Over Jerusalem.

Jesus’ engagement with the Pharisees had become a confrontation and is now at a boiling point. This is not just a report on an incident between Jesus and the Pharisees and the Jewish religious establishment of that day, this is a grave warning, a demonstration and a lesson for all future generations who would assume the name of pastor, priest, teacher, leader, rabbi or father in order to rule over others while pretending to shepherd the sheep of God.

Hypocrisy Exposed

Matthew23:1, Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples, verse 2, saying: “The scribes and the Pharisees have seated themselves in the chair of Moses. Verse 3, Therefore, whatever they tell you, do and comply with it all, but do not do as they do; for they say things and do not do them. Verse 4. And they tie up heavy burdens and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are unwilling to move them with so much as their finger. Verse 5. And they do all their deeds to be noticed by other people; for they broaden their phylacteries and lengthen the tassels of their garments. Verse 6. And they love the place of honor at banquets, and the seats of honor in the synagogues, verse 7, and personal greetings in the marketplaces, and being called Rabbi by the people. Verse 8. But as for you, do not be called Rabbi; for only One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers and sisters. Verse 9. And do not call anyone on earth your father; for only One is your Father, He who is in heaven. Verse 10. And do not be called leaders; for only One is your Leader, that is, Christ. Verse 11. But the greatest of you shall be your servant. Verse 12. Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.

(Commentary Break): These religious leaders may feign being nice and polite – at the right moments. But dare you disagree with them or step outside the boundaries of their self-righteous, self-crafted rules and you will feel the grind of the heel of their religious boot on your neck.

The Jewish people have complied with and endured this religious despotism for about two hundred years, and Jesus is in the process of breaking their legalistic hold, and will soon dispatch them, their influence, their rule and their very presence from the scene in Jewish life.(They will be dissolved by the year 73 A.D.)

More importantly, we should note that Jesus is dismantling the obstacles erected by religious authoritarians which prevent people’s direct access to God. Jesus is not just removing the religious-middleman, He is defining and redefining the role, posture and character of pastors, preachers, priests, theologians and Bible teachers. They are to be servants of The One True and Living God appointed to be servants in the likeness and type as Jesus. Protectors and shepherds of God’s people, The Church.

(I am astounded, as I read this, to see and hear our modern and postmodern churches violate these very mandates proclaimed by Jesus. I pray you will share my dismay and outrage as I share the outrage of Jesus. Our churches divide the ‘clergy from laity’, and elevate the former from the latter. Our churches call pastor, elders, deacons and teachers, “Leaders”, in direct disobedience to Jesus’ Words. Some churches call their pastors, “Father”, as an affront to Christ and The Fathers. Others call themselves “Rabbi”, despite the Words of Jesus.)

It is not the use of certain words that is so egregious. It is the attitude of defiance  and ignorance toward Jesus and His teaching, that is offensive.

This ignorant defiance has been and continues to be like a spreading virus, infecting the attitudes and behaviors of the Body of Christ. (And, if you or I fail to see and share the outrage of Jesus, then we likely share in the attitude of the Pharisees.)

Jesus makes it clear that to be first, one must put themself last. Only God is worthy to hold the premier position. (End Commentary Break).

Eight Woes

Verse 13. “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you shut the kingdom of heaven in front of people; for you do not enter it yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in.

Verse 15. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you travel around on sea and land to make one proselyte; and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as yourselves.

Verse 16. “Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘Whoever swears by the temple, that is nothing; but whoever swears by the gold of the temple is obligated.’ Verse 17. You fools and blind men! Which is more important, the gold or the temple that sanctified the gold? Verse 18. And you say, ‘Whoever swears by the altar, that is nothing; but whoever swears by the offering that is on it is obligated.’ Verse 19. You blind men, which is more important, the offering or the altar that sanctifies the offering? Verse 20. Therefore, the one who swears by the altar, swears both by the altar and by everything on it. Verse 21. And the one who swears by the temple, swears both by the temple and by Him who dwells in it. Verse 22. And the one who swears by [v]heaven, swears both by the throne of God and by Him who sits upon it.

Verse 23. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the Law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others. Verse 24. You blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel!

Verse 25. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside they are full of robbery and self-indulgence. Verse 26. You blind Pharisee, first clean the inside of the cup and of the dish, so that the outside of it may also become clean.

Verse 27. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. Verse 28. So you too, outwardly appear righteous to people, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.

(Commentary Break): Should we substitute the name “Pharisee” and replace it with Pastor, Preacher, Bible teacher, Elder, Deacon, Father, Priest or Rabbi, at times in the  various churches? (End Commentary Break).

Verse 29. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs for the prophets and decorate the monuments of the righteous, verse 30, and you say, ‘If we had been living in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partners with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’ Verse 31. So you testify against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. Verse 32. Fill up, then, the measure of the guilt of your fathers. Verse 33. You snakes, you offspring of vipers, how will you escape the sentence of hell?

Verse 34. “Therefore, behold, I am sending you prophets and wise men and scribes; some of them you will kill and crucify, and some of them you will flog in your synagogues, and persecute from city to city, verse 35, so that upon you will fall the guilt of all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. Verse 36. Truly I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation.

(Commentary Break): There are many faithful and committed Pastors, Preachers, Elders, theologians and Bible Teachers who are faithful and true followers of Jesus. You will know them by their fruit. They will tell you that Jesus came into this world as a sacrifice for many. His sheep knew His voice and followed Him. He did not accumulate wealth, influence, fame, possessions or gold.

So, how about you, Christian? Pastor? Preacher? How about you? What are you accumulating?

Are you and those in ‘your church’ following you or are they following you because you are following Jesus? (End Commentary Break).

Grieving over Jerusalem

Verse 37. “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those who have been sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling. Verse 38. Behold, your house is being left to you desolate! Verse 39. For I say to you, from now on you will not see Me until you say, ‘BLESSED IS THE ONE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD!’”

(Commentary Break): Matthew, while recording the words used by Jesus, “Oh, Jerusalem, Jerusalem”, spoken in the Hebrew form, desired to reproduce the actual sound of the Savior’s loving lament. And, with these words of tender and divine sorrow, Jesus completes His earthly mission. (End Commentary Break).

It is appropriate that, as Jesus concludes His earthly ministry, in chapter 24 we will see and hear Jesus’ disciples ask the question that has been on everyone’s mind, even to this day, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”

Coming up, Matthew Chapter 24, Jesus gives a synopsis and an outline of the tribulation period, beginning with the ongoing “Birth Pains” phase of the tribulation, and leading up to the Great Tribulation, also known as the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and the Wrath of the Lamb.

We will read about the sign of the coming of the Son of man, immediately preceded by cosmological and astronomical disturbances, and followed by the rapture of the elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.

Pray and prepare your heart, mind, soul and spirit for what is now upon us!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Part 1, Chapter 24, verses 1-14, The Signs of Christ’s Return.

PREVIOUS:  THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 22, The Marriage Feast, The Poll-tax, Jesus and the Sadducees.

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