Mark 13:1-8, The Record of Jesus’ Olivet Discourse

We now come to the Olivet Discourse (the title will be explained later.)  Jesus is in Jerusalem, the Twelve following Him there, bearing their crosses (they would say) as Jesus has been bearing His.  As we begin, let us remind ourselves: Jesus is still in the mode of Mk. 8:34-38, headed to Jerusalem where He will suffer, be killed and then raised the third day.  You only truly follow Him if you are bearing your cross.

The Olivet Discourse (words spoken on the Mt. of Olives, and not so much a sermon as a “discourse,” answering questions raised by the Twelve) is recorded in all three Synoptic Gospels.  This is a place where understanding any of the three records is enhanced by being aware of the others.  Let’s compare “outlines.”

Mark 13	Matthew 24-25	Luke 21
Widow’s mites	Jesus laments over Jerusalem	Widow’s mites
Amazing buildings	Amazing buildings	Amazing buildings
“Not one stone”	“Not one stone”	“Not one stone”
Questions	Questions	Questions
Prophetic Signs>> Second Coming	Prophetic Signs>> Second Coming	Prophetic Signs>> Second Coming
v14: Abom. of Desolation	v19: Abom. of Desolation	v20: Times of the Gentiles
Fig Tree	Fig Tree	Fig Tree
No one knows when	No one knows when
Watch!	Watch!	Watch!
	Faithful / Evil Servant
	Ten Virgins
	Parable of Talents
	Judgment of Nations

Mark & Luke tell of the “widow’s mites” while Jesus laments Jerusalem in Matthew’s version. Both stories are pertinent to the Discourse.  All three record questions, but not the same ones.  Each records Jesus’ description of signs, ending with the promise of His return in majesty.  Matt. & Mk. place the Abomination of Desolation at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th Week.  Luke refers to the “times of the Gentiles.”  Each follow Jesus’ return with the “Fig Tree” parable.  Matt. adds, in Chy. 25, additional teaching that is pertinent to the nation of Israel.

We will consider these things in detail.  For now, let me say with certainty, the differences are not contradictions.  As is always the case with the 4 “Gospel” accounts: each human author is moved by the Holy Spirit.  We will benefit greatly from their differences as well as their similarities.  Thank you, Lord, for such a great talk with Jesus!