1. What sign does Jesus mention that will signal the beginning of the Great Tribulation? Answer: The "abomination of desolation" standing where it should not be. (Mark 13:14)
2. What does Jesus instruct those in Judea to do when they see this sign?
Answer: Flee to the mountains. (Mark 13:14)
3. According to Jesus, what will this time period be unprecedented for?
Answer: It will be a time of tribulation unequaled from the beginning of creation until now, and never to be equaled again. (Mark 13:19)
4. Why does Jesus say that God will cut short those days?
Answer: For the sake of the elect, whom He has chosen. If the Lord had not cut short those days, no one would survive. (Mark 13:20)
MARK 13:14-20 - THE GREAT TRIBULATION
14 "But When You See The Abomination Of Desolation Standing Where It Ought Not To Be (let The Reader Understand), Then Let Those Who Are In Judea Flee To The Mountains."
JESUS WARNS OF A FUTURE DESECRATION OF THE HOLY PLACE, LIKELY REFERENCING DANIEL'S PROPHECY.
15 "Let The One Who Is On The Housetop Not Go Down, Nor Enter His House, To Take Anything Out,"
THE URGENCY OF THE SITUATION REQUIRES IMMEDIATE FLIGHT WITHOUT DELAY.
16 "and Let The One Who Is In The Field Not Turn Back To Take His Cloak."
SIMILARLY, THOSE WORKING SHOULD FLEE IMMEDIATELY WITHOUT RETURNING FOR POSSESSIONS.
17 "And Alas For Women Who Are Pregnant And For Those Who Are Nursing Infants In Those Days!"
JESUS EXPRESSES COMPASSION FOR THOSE WHO MAY STRUGGLE TO FLEE QUICKLY.
18 "Pray That It May Not Happen In Winter."
WINTER CONDITIONS WOULD MAKE THE FLIGHT MORE DIFFICULT AND DANGEROUS.
19 "For In Those Days There Will Be Such Tribulation As Has Not Been From The Beginning Of The Creation That God Created Until Now, And Never Will Be."
JESUS DESCRIBES AN UNPARALLELED TIME OF DISTRESS AND SUFFERING.
20 "And If The Lord Had Not Cut Short The Days, No Human Being Would Be Saved. But For The Sake Of The Elect, Whom He Chose, He Shortened The Days."
GOD'S MERCY LIMITS THE DURATION OF THIS TRIBULATION FOR THE SAKE OF HIS CHOSEN ONES.
What was the significance of Herod the Great's renovation of the Temple in Jerusalem?
Question 2 of 4
How did the disciples react to Jesus' prophecy about the destruction of the Temple?
Question 3 of 4
Analyze how wars and rumors of wars serve as indicators of distress in relation to Jesus' teachings on the Mount of Olives.
Question 4 of 4
Discuss the implications of natural disasters such as earthquakes and famines as mentioned in Jesus' warnings about end times.
PERSEVERE UNTIL THE END
A. The Temple's Demise And Its Consequences
(1-2) Jesus Foretells The Temple's Destruction.
As He Was Leaving The Temple, One Of His Followers Remarked, “Master, Look At The Impressive Stones And Structures Here!” Jesus Replied, “Do You Observe These Magnificent Buildings? Truly, Not A Single Stone Will Remain In Place; All Will Be Toppled.”
"Teacher, Observe The Type Of Stones And The Architecture Present Here! The Disciples, Much Like Sightseers, Were Astonished By The Splendor Of The Temple In Jerusalem. Their Wonder Was Warranted; The Temple, Renovated By Herod The Great, Stood As One Of The Most Impressive Edifices Of Antiquity, Symbolizing The Pride Of The Jewish Community."
"Every Stone Will Be Overturned, And None Will Remain In Place: Approximately 40 Years After Jesus Delivered This Prophecy, A Jewish Uprising Against The Romans Led To A Disastrous Defeat For The Jewish People. The Romans Annihilated Jerusalem, Along With The Temple, Perfectly Realizing Jesus' Prediction."
B. The Questions Of The Disciples Regarding The Future
(3-4) The Prediction Made By Jesus Raises Two Queries In The Thoughts Of His Disciples.
While He Was Seated On The Mount Of Olives Facing The Temple, Peter, James, John, And Andrew Approached Him Privately And Inquired, “When Will These Events Occur? What Will Be The Indication That All These Things Are About To Happen?”
While Seated On The Mount Of Olives: The Mount Of Olives Offered A Sweeping Vista Of The Temple Mount Situated Over The Kidron Valley. From This Vantage Point, Jesus And His Followers Had A Clear Sight Of The Temple, Which Led To Their Inquiries.
"Please Inform Us, When Will These Events Occur? The Initial Inquiry From The Disciples Concerned The Timing Of The Temple's Demolition. Although Mark Does Not Include Jesus' Response, The Gospel Of Luke (21:8-23) Offers It."
"What Will Indicate That All These Events Are Coming To Completion? The Second Inquiry Pertains To The Signs That Would Denote The Realization Of Jesus' Prediction. The Remainder Of Mark 13 Discusses This Topic."
D. The Course Of History Leading Up To Jesus’ Return
(5-8) Jesus Outlines Overall Global Conditions During The Time Between His Ascension And His Second Coming.
Jesus Responded To Them By Saying, “Be Careful That No One Misleads You. Many Will Come In My Name, Claiming, ‘I Am The One,’ And They Will Lead Many Astray. However, When You Hear About Wars And Rumors Of Wars, Do Not Let It Disturb You; These Events Are Necessary, But The End Has Not Arrived Yet. Nation Will Oppose Nation, And Kingdom Will Rise Against Kingdom. There Will Also Be Earthquakes In Different Locations, Along With Famines And Hardships. These Are Merely The Initial Stages Of Distress.”
Be Cautious That No One Misleads You: Jesus Cautioned His Followers About The Threat Posed By False Messiahs Who Would Arrive In His Name, Pretending To Be Him Or His Emissaries. Numerous Individuals Would Fall Victim To These Frauds.
Conflicts And Speculation About Conflicts: Jesus Warned That Wars And The Possibility Of Wars Would Take Place Prior To His Second Coming. While These Events Have Been Prevalent Throughout History, Jesus Emphasized That They Do Not Serve As Particular Indicators Of The End Times.
These Occurrences Are Inevitable, But The Conclusion Has Not Arrived: Jesus Pointed Out That Phenomena Like Conflicts, Food Shortages, And Seismic Activities Have Been Present Throughout Human History Since His Ascension. He Stressed That These Do Not Signify That The End Is Near.
These Events Mark The Onset Of Troubles: Jesus Likened These Disasters To The Initial Stages Of Childbirth, Indicating Both The Arrival Of A New Era And The Possibility Of A Rise In The Frequency And Severity Of Such Occurrences.
Overview
Jesus' Message Delivered On The Mount Of Olives Emphasizes The Importance Of Being Alert, Persevering, And Exercising Judgment During Difficult Times. Although Disasters And Hardships Are Unavoidable, They Do Not Automatically Indicate The End Times. Rather, They Signify The Onset Of A Phase Filled With Trials That Will Ultimately Result In Jesus' Return.
1. Mark 13:9, what will happen to the followers of Jesus?
They will be praised by all
They will be delivered over to councils and beaten in synagogues
They will become wealthy and powerful
They will live peaceful lives
2. Mark 13:10, What must happen before the end?
The temple must be rebuilt
All wars must cease
The gospel must be proclaimed to all nations
The world must achieve perfect peace
3. Mark 13:11, Who will speak through the followers when they are brought to trial?
Their lawyers
The disciples
Jesus himself
The Holy Spirit
4. Mark 13:13, what will happen to those who endure to the end?
They will be rewarded with earthly riches
They will be saved
They will become leaders of nations
They will ascend to heaven immediately
NOTES:
VERSE 9 But Be On Your Guard. For They Will Deliver You Over To Councils, And You Will Be Beaten In Synagogues, And You Will Stand Before Governors And Kings For My Sake, To Bear Witness Before Them.
THEME: PERSECUTION AND WITNESSING
10 And The Gospel Must First Be Proclaimed To All Nations.
THEME: GLOBAL GOSPEL PROCLAMATION
11 And When They Bring You To Trial And Deliver You Over, Do Not Be Anxious Beforehand What You Are To Say, But Say Whatever Is Given You In That Hour, For It Is Not You Who Speak, But The Holy Spirit.
THEME: DIVINE GUIDANCE IN TRIALS
12 And Brother Will Deliver Brother Over To Death, And The Father His Child, And Children Will Rise Against Parents And Have Them Put To Death.
THEME: FAMILY DIVISION AND BETRAYAL
13 And You Will Be Hated By All For My Name's Sake. But The One Who Endures To The End Will Be Saved.
THEME: ENDURANCE AND SALVATION
WHAT DOES ENDURANCE IN FAITH LOOK LIKE IN YOUR DAILY LIFE?
HOW CAN WE BALANCE BEING ON GUARD WITH MAINTAINING A LOVING AND OPEN HEART?
HOW DOES THE PROMISE OF SALVATION IMPACT YOUR WILLINGNESS TO FACE HARDSHIPS FOR CHRIST?
The Gospel of John stands as a unique and profound testament within the New Testament, distinct from the Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. It opens with a striking prologue, establishing the divinity of Christ, referring to Him as the Word, or Logos, which emphasizes His pre-existence and role in creation. This theological foundation sets the tone for a narrative that delves into the nature of belief, identity, and the relationship between humanity and the divine.
One of the Gospel's notable features is its use of symbolism and metaphor. The imagery of light and darkness permeates the text, illustrating the conflict between faith and unbelief. The term "light" is frequently associated with Jesus, presenting Him as the illuminating force in a world often shrouded in spiritual darkness. This is particularly evident in the story of Nicodemus, where the theme of rebirth and the necessity of spiritual awakening are articulated.
Moreover, the Gospel of John introduces seven significant "I Am" statements made by Jesus, each revealing a different aspect of His identity. When He declares, "I am the bread of life," He invites believers to find sustenance and fulfillment in Him. These statements not only convey theological insights but also challenge the audience to reflect on their own understanding of Jesus and their personal faith journey.
The narrative structure of John includes miraculous signs, each serving to reveal Jesus' glory and encourage belief. The raising of Lazarus, arguably one of the most dramatic miracles, underscores the themes of life, death, and resurrection, foreshadowing Jesus’ own resurrection.
In essence, the Gospel of John invites readers to engage deeply with the nature of Christ, the significance of faith, and the transformative power of belief. It is an invitation to explore the profound mysteries of existence through the lens of divine revelation.
What is a unique characteristic of the Gospel of John compared to the Synoptic Gospels?
A) It includes parables extensively.
B) It emphasizes Jesus' divinity.
C) It focuses on the birth narrative.
D) It contains a detailed genealogy.
Explanation:
The Gospel of John uniquely emphasizes the divinity of Jesus, portraying Him as the pre-existent Word (Logos) and focusing more on His divine nature than on His earthly life, which distinguishes it from the Synoptic Gospels.
Question 2 of 10
Score: 1/1
How does the Prologue of John contribute to establishing Christ's divinity?
A) By detailing Jesus' birth in Bethlehem.
B) By describing miracles performed by Jesus.
C) By declaring that "the Word was God."
D) By including a genealogy of Jesus.
Explanation:
The Prologue of John's Gospel establishes Christ's divinity by stating, "the Word was God," thus affirming His divine nature and pre-existence before creation, which is central to understanding Jesus' identity.
Question 3 of 10
Score: 1/1
The concept of the Word (Logos) in the Gospel of John highlights what aspect of Christ?
A) His teachings and moral principles.
B) His role as a prophet.
C) His existence before physical embodiment.
D) His connections to Jewish law.
Explanation:
The concept of the Word (Logos) emphasizes that Christ existed before His incarnation, indicating His eternal nature and divine essence, which transcends His human experience.
Question 4 of 10
Score: 1/1
What theme is prevalent in the Gospel of John regarding belief and identity?
A) Discipleship as an exclusive club.
B) The importance of ritual adherence.
C) Belief as essential for eternal life.
D) Identity rooted solely in Jewish heritage.
Explanation:
One of the central themes in John's Gospel is that belief in Jesus as the Son of God is crucial for obtaining eternal life, highlighting the transformative power of faith and identity in Christ.
Question 5 of 10
Score: 1/1
In what way does John's Gospel explore the relationship between humanity and the divine?
A) Through laws and regulations.
B) Through a series of parables.
C) Through direct encounters with Jesus.
D) Through historical accounts of Israel.
Explanation:
John's Gospel explores this relationship through personal encounters with Jesus, emphasizing intimacy and connection between humanity and the divine, such as during conversations like that with Nicodemus.
Question 6 of 10
Score: 1/1
How does John utilize symbolism within his narrative?
A) He avoids using metaphors entirely.
B) He uses symbols to convey deeper spiritual truths.
C) He relies on straightforward historical facts only.
D) He focuses strictly on allegorical interpretations.
Explanation:
John employs symbolism to convey profound spiritual truths, utilizing images like light vs. darkness to illustrate concepts of truth, salvation, and revelation throughout his narrative.
Question 7 of 10
Score: 1/1
What does the imagery of light versus darkness represent in John's Gospel?
A) Physical locations in Jerusalem.
B) The distinction between good and evil.
C) Seasonal changes throughout the year.
D) Different types of clothing worn by characters.
Explanation:
The imagery of light represents goodness, truth, and divine presence, while darkness symbolizes evil, ignorance, and separation from God, reflecting a core theme in John's theological framework.
Question 8 of 10
Score: 1/1
Which biblical figure's story exemplifies spiritual rebirth in the Gospel of John?
A) Peter
B) Mary Magdalene
D) Lazarus
Explanation:
The story of Nicodemus illustrates spiritual rebirth as he seeks understanding from Jesus about being "born again," representing transformation through faith in Christ.
Question 9 of 10
Score: 1/1
What do the "I Am" statements by Jesus signify?
A) His adherence to Mosaic Law.
B) Various aspects of His divine mission and identity.
C) Historical events in Israel’s history.
D) Rituals associated with temple worship.
Explanation:
The "I Am" statements reflect key aspects of Jesus' identity and mission, asserting His divinity by connecting Himself to significant themes within Jewish tradition while revealing His role as Savior.
Question 10 of 10
Score: 1/1
In what way does the raising of Lazarus serve as a foreshadowing event?
A) It merely demonstrates Jesus' popularity among crowds.
B) It hints at Jesus' own upcoming resurrection.
C) It details a new method for healing diseases.
D) It presents a parable about friendship.
Explanation:
The raising of Lazarus foreshadows Jesus' own resurrection by illustrating His authority over death and prefiguring the ultimate victory over sin and mortality that would be realized through His resurrection.
The
Calling Of The First Disciples (Matthew 4:18-22)
In Matthew 4:18-22,
We See Jesus Calling His First Disciples—Peter, Andrew, James, And
John. They Were All Fishermen, Engaged In Their Daily Work, When
Jesus Invited Them To Follow Him. This Was Not Just A Casual
Invitation; It Was A Call To Leave Behind Their Livelihoods And
Commit To A New Mission—Becoming "fishers Of Men." The
Immediacy Of Their Response, Leaving Their Nets And Their Families,
Demonstrates Their Willingness To Fully Dedicate Themselves To Jesus.
This Scene
Illustrates That Jesus Calls Individuals In The Midst Of Their Daily
Lives, Often While They Are Busy With Their Regular Occupations. The
Decision To Follow Jesus Requires Immediate And Wholehearted
Commitment, Reflecting The Urgency And Significance Of The Call To
Discipleship.
The
Cost Of Discipleship (Matthew 8:18-22)
In Matthew 8:18-22,
Jesus Addresses Two Would-Be Followers, Teaching Them About The Cost
Of Discipleship. The First Man, A Scribe, Expresses A Desire To
Follow Jesus Wherever He Goes. However, Jesus Responds By
Highlighting The Reality Of A Life Of Discipleship: It Is Not
Glamorous And May Involve Hardship, As "the Son Of Man Has
Nowhere To Lay His Head." This Emphasizes The Need For Disciples
To Be Prepared For A Life Of Sacrifice.
The Second Man
Wishes To Delay Following Jesus Until After He Has Buried His
Father—A Task That Could Take An Indefinite Amount Of Time, As It
Likely Refers To Staying With His Father Until His Eventual Death.
Jesus' Response, "Follow Me, And Let The Dead Bury Their Own
Dead," Underscores The Principle That Following Him Must Take
Precedence Over All Other Obligations, Even Those Considered
Important By Societal Standards.
Key
Takeaways
Immediate
Commitment:
The First Disciples' Immediate Response To Jesus' Call Serves As A
Model For How We Should Respond To God's Calling In Our Own Lives.
Sacrifice
And Priority:
Following Jesus Requires A Willingness To Sacrifice Personal Comfort
And Prioritize Him Above All Else, Including Family And Societal
Duties.
Understanding
The Cost:
Jesus Doesn't Sugarcoat The Realities Of Discipleship. He Wants His
Followers To Understand That The Journey Is Challenging, Requiring
Dedication And Perseverance.
These Passages
Remind Us That The Call To Follow Jesus Is Both A Privilege And A
Responsibility.
Demanding Our Full
Commitment And Willingness To Put Him First In All Aspects Of Our
Lives.
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