Jesus gives his followers in the temple a catalog of signs and warnings related to the destruction of Jerusalem and his second coming in Chapter 21. Perhaps Jesus' teaching takes this turn because of how near to the end his own time on earth is coming.
Before all that begins, Jesus presents a powerful object lesson for his followers in verses 1-4. Others may be impressed with the gifts and offerings being given by the rich people, but -- as usual -- Jesus focuses in on the poor and marginalized, in this case a widow. I think he really admires this woman. The contrast he draws (v. 3-4) is about how much of their own money people are willing to give to God or the temple, and that's one important idea we can take away from this. But another application for us is commitment to God's kingdom. This poor woman was all in while many others gave a token to God. If you're able or willing to give most or all of your money to church, Christian ministries or other charities, that speaks to your commitment to the people Jesus was most concerned about. But I would love to hear your thoughts Sunday on how else we can embrace the widow's ethic in our lives, so as not to just gloss over this important passage.
Of course, this turned some people's attention to all the beautiful and expensive things the temple was adorned with (v. 5). That's what triggers Jesus' turn to darker thoughts. First, he predicts the temple will be destroyed (v. 6). Then, in response to a question about when this will happen, he begins talking about his return (v. 8) and what will precede the end of time (v. 9). He elaborates by talking about wars, natural and man-made disasters and astronomical happenings (v. 10-11) -- all signs of Christ's return. When you reflect on this list of woes and look back -- whether it's the last week, the last century or the last 2,000 years -- do you think the world is ripe for Jesus' second coming?
Jesus also promises his followers that they will be persecuted before all of these signs occur (v. 12). Now, for those who didn't back away from Jesus over his talk of wars, plagues and famine, these warnings about being thrown in prison probably caused many to flee. But Jesus, ever the gospel preacher, sees it as an opportunity for their testimony (v. 13). He doesn't suggest, though, that this testimony will somehow lead to freedom, reconciliation or acceptance of Christ by all. Instead, expect betrayal by family and friends, death, and universal hatred (v. 16-17). If we were to read Acts, Luke's other book in the New Testament, we would see that the apostles and Jesus' other early followers encountered much of this. We live in a place where these concerns aren't much of an issue, but I'm wondering how you think you would respond in such situations. Would you keep following Christ? It's worth considering, because someday you may live elsewhere and not enjoy the same degree of religious freedoms. Or maybe the situation will change here in some way.
I want to note that in the midst of all this Jesus offers words of hope and encouragement for those who follow him (v. 9, 14-15, 18-19). Essentially, these statements assure listeners that Jesus will be present in the midst of tribulation and that believers will be protected (even if they die).
Jesus isn't done with the bad news, though, as he gives more detail on all that is to come. He predicts the destruction of Jerusalem (v. 20) and all the woes surrounding that (v. 21-24). He also has more to say about signs in the heavens and on earth and the fear and anxiety it will produce (v. 25-26). Jesus specifies how he'll return (v. 27), using the title of Son of Man that he has referred to himself as in the past. And he offers more words of hope (v. 28), which sound like a life line to a drowning man after all that has been outlined. The purpose of all these signs is laid out in the parable in verses 29-33 -- that believers can recognize the kingdom of God is near. Again, words of hope in troubled times.
Jesus talks about watchfulness and readiness in light of these things, telling believers to pray for strength to get through (v. 34-36). There are a lot of interesting/confusing details in the chapter. I want to hear on Sunday what in all of this description catches your attention or what you have questions about.
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