The two chapters for today closely parallel Matthew 24-26. Matthew provides more details, but in these Jesus answers the questions the disciples have about what Jesus has prophesied. After a disciple comments on the physical beauty of the Temple, Jesus makes a shocking prophecy, "Yes, look at the great buildings. But they will be completely destroyed. Not one stone will be left on top of another." (13:2). While He was prophesying the destruction of the Temple (which occurred in 70 A.D.), He was also speaking of the demolition of the current form of worship embodied in the Law.
The Temple destruction concerned the disciples. They could tell from the tone of Jesus' voice and the severe manner in which the prophecy was presented that shortly things would become horribly wrong. The destruction of the Temple was also the destruction of the daily sacrifice and the removal of Jews from the Holy Land for a long period. Not until the 20th century would the Jews establish their own independent state.
While Jesus spoke, the anxiety of their destiny began to fray the disciples nerves. Jesus was saying that some of them would stand trial. He had already stated that He was going to be crucified. Now, He is stating that the disciples themselves would be severely persecuted. In 13:11, Jesus makes a remarkable promise, "But when you are arrested and stand trial, don't worry in advance about what to say. Just say what God tells you at that time, for it is not you who will be speaking, but the Holy Spirit." This promise was powerful and returned their focus back to God where it belonged. He will speak for us! He will provide the answers!
May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.
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