'Lk 21:29-38

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132. A warning to be alert always (Matt 24:32-51; Mark 13:28-37; Luke 21:29-38)

Just as the first leaves on a fig tree indicate that summer is coming, so when the disciples see the false messiahs, the persecution and the approach of the Roman armies, they will know that the destruction of Jerusalem and the Jewish nation is upon them. People of Jesus’ day would see the fulfilment of these things in their own lifetime (Matt 24:32-35; Luke 21:29-33).

As for the day when the Son of man will return in the glory of his kingdom, no one knows when that will be except the Father (Matt 24:36; cf. Dan 7:13-14).

People will be carrying on their daily business, ignoring God’s warnings just as people did in the days of Noah. But just as the flood was God’s means of judgment on those people, so Jesus’ return will bring judgment on sinners and salvation to his people (Matt 24:37-41; see notes on Luke 17:22-37).

Jesus’ coming will be as unexpected as that of a thief who breaks into a house while the owner is asleep (Matt 24:42-44; see notes on Luke 12:39-40).

The disciples of Jesus must therefore be prepared for his return at all times. They must not settle down to a life of self-pleasing but live faithfully for him (Matt 24:45-51; see notes on Luke 12:42-46).