Mark 13

Mark 13 is an eschatological passage. The disciples ask about comments that he made about the destruction of the Temple and Jesus ramps it into a lesson on the end times. I have to confess, it seemed a bit creepy. The way the Savior describes it, is certainly does not sound like you would look forward to it like you are looking forward to the family vacation or Christmas.

Pray that it may not happen in winter. For in those days there will be such tribulation as has not been from the beginning of the creation that God created until now, and never will be. And if the Lord had not cut short the days, no human being would be saved. (v. 18-20a)

But there is one message that I take away from this passage. It is a message that Jesus repeats and repeats:

v. 9 - But be on your guard
v. 23 - But be on guard; I have told you all things beforehand.
v. 28 - From the fig tree learn its lesson
v. 33 - Be on guard, keep awake
v. 37 - And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake

The Word of God is powerful and important and every word should be studied and valued. However, when Jesus repeats something (Truly, truly I say to you), it is like he is shouting, "Hey, listen up, this is REALLY important. When he is multiply repetitive in one chapter, I don't know how to make that any more clear - PAY ATTENTION.

Sovereign Grace's Mark Mullery wrote an article and has done some messages roughly titled, Everyone a Theologian explaining the call for all of us to 'study to show yourself approved' (II Timothy 2:15). This is a direct and specific call to do that, and to do that in the very specific area of eschatology.

I am going to pull out my copy of Systematic Theology by Dr. Wayne Grudem and re-read those chapters. I also know that the book store carries his shorter work Bible Doctrine which has four chapters on this topic alone.

Lord, I want to "present my self to God as one approved", but to do that I need your grace. Open my eyes to your Word, open my heart to the changes that will occur as I see you and see myself.