Mark 13:3-27, Olivet Discourse Timing Keys (1)

Proper interpretation of the Olivet Discourse is important.  “Supercessionism,” sometimes referred to as “replacement theology” (because they hold that the Church is now the recipient and/or fulfillment of all that God promised to Israel in the OT) believes that the entirety of Jesus’ words were fulfilled in 70AD.  The “premillennial” or “futurist” view says that the Discourse is fulfilled in the future, or as I believe, some was fulfilled in 70AD and the rest is ongoing and future.  These views are not only different; there are major ramifications to each.  So, interpretation is critical.

This difference of understanding also applies to Revelation 4-19.  Supercessionists hold to a “pretorist” or “modified pretorist” view, that Revelation is a warning concerning the coming destruction on Jerusalem in 70AD.   Premillennialists accept the testimony of the Early Church that Revelation was written by John after 70AD, and that Ch. 4-19 describe the events of a seven year “tribulation period.”  This was spoken of by Daniel (Dan. 9:24-27), Jeremiah (time of Jacob’s trouble, Jer. 30:7), and several other prophets.  And they believe Jesus speaks of it in the Olivet Discourse when He spoke of a time of tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the creation which God created until this time, nor ever shall be (Mk. 13:19). 

Thus, the difference is one of “timing.”  Is Jesus speaking of things that are all in the past?  Of are His prophecies still waiting a future fulfillment?  For that reason it is important not to miss His references to “time.”  Let me show you what I mean from Mark 13.  Jesus began by warning them of deception, and then telling them they would hear of “wars and rumors of wars.”  The then He said,

·       v7: the end is not yet.  He then speaks of coming “troubles,” but says …

·       v8: these are the beginning of sorrows.  He warns of persecution, but also promises that …

·       v10: the gospel must first be preached to all nations.  He continues speaking of coming persecution and hatred, and how it should be handled.  Then He says …

·       v14: when you see the abomination of desolation.  Jesus was specific about this event, linking it to Daniel’s writings (we will review this in the next post).  This event is the time for people to flee.  After that event Jesus then said …

·       v15-19: in those days there will be great tribulation.  Then …

·       v24: after that tribulation they will see My coming.

Briefly, there are troublesome times, and then there is an event that introduces times that are even more difficult, after which He will come.  Let’s stop here, and pick it up in the next post, reminding ourselves that these “signs” and “prophecies” are tied to the LORD God of Israel, the Sovereign LORD!  He rules in all of this.  Our task is to trust Him and live according to His word.