The End?
* A few days before his arrest and crucifixion, Jesus entered Jerusalem (Luke 19:28-44). He was praised by many but opposed by others. As he taught in the temple area, many listened with great interest, but the religious leaders challenged his authority and attempted to trap him (19:47-20:47). However, they could not succeed in their efforts to discredit Jesus.

* As Jesus' disciples spent time around the temple, they were impressed with its beauty, and they talked about it. This provided Jesus an opportunity to talk about "the end." Read Luke 21:5-33.

¶ "Teacher, they asked, 'when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place'?" (Luke 21:7)

Until the End
* Jesus does not immediately give them a direct answer, but helps prepare his disciples for the period of time prior to the end. He first warns them of false saviors or Messiahs, and he says "watch out that you are not deceived…do not follow them" (21:8).

1. Under what conditions are people most likely to be led astray by false saviors?

* Jesus tells them that wars and revolutions (disturbances) will happen, but he says, "do not be frightened" (21:9). He lists international conflicts and wars, earthquakes, famines, pestilences (widespread disease), and other fearful events (21:10-11).

2. In the midst of wars, disturbances, and other fearful events, Jesus tells his disciples, "do not be frightened." (21:9a) Why should they not be frightened?

* But before all of this, Jesus' disciples will face severe mistreatment because of their faith. They will be hated and mistreated by religious authorities, civil authorities, and even family members and "friends" (21:12-17).

3. Of course, this will mean much difficulty and suffering. However, what positive statements does Jesus make? (21:13-15, 18-19)

The Fall of Jersusalem
* Jesus clearly says that Jerusalem and the temple will be destroyed (21:20-24). Many people will be killed and others will be taken captive. It will be a time of great distress in the land. "For this is the time of punishment in fulfillment of all that has been written" (21:22). For they "did not recognize the time of God's coming" in the person of Jesus Christ (19:44).

* This prophecy was fulfilled 40 years later. In response to the Jewish revolt against the Romans beginning in AD 66, the Roman general Titus forced his way into Jerusalem, and destroyed the temple and the city in AD 70.

The Coming of Christ
* Jesus moves from the fall of Jerusalem to the end of the age (21:25-28). There will be signs in the heavens. "At that time, the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky" (Matt.24:30a). "…they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory" (Luke 21:27).

* At Christ's coming, many will "faint with terror" (v. 26), but believers are encouraged (v. 28).

Certainty of the End
* Jesus tells them a parable to emphasize the certainty of the end of the age (21:29-33). When the fig trees sprout leaves, they can be certain that summer is near. When they see these things that Jesus has mentioned, they can be certain that the kingdom of God is near. Jesus says, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away" (21:33).

4. As we consider our existence in this troubled world, and the fact that "heaven and earth will pass away," how can Jesus' words help us? How can they change our perspective on life?

What to Do

5. Read Luke 21:34-36. In these days, before the end comes, what must believers do?

Reflection & Application
† Are you ready for Christ's return? Do you need to receive him as Lord? As a believer, are you keeping things in proper perspective? Reflect on vv. 34-36, and stay ready for Christ's return.