Mark 13 and Election Day, 2012

Mark 13

When the disciples pointed out to Jesus the magnificence of the Temple buildings, they must have been astounded when he told them that those great buildings would be completely demolished, that not one stone would be left on another. Josephus reported that some of those stones were nearly 70 feet long and 12 feet high. The Temple took 46 years to build and was adorned with a number of wonderful items. In A.D. 70, about forty years from Jesus’ prophecy, the destruction of the Temple took place.
Some of the disciples (Peter, James, John, and Andrew) must have had this on their minds when Jesus met with them privately. Because they asked when it would happen and what sign he would show them that these things were about to be fulfilled.
They ask Jesus:
· When the destruction of the Temple will happen
· What sign will tell them these things are about to be fulfilled
Who wouldn’t want to know when something of such importance was to happen? Jesus gives them a number of signs to watch for, but also comfort.
I always thought this referred to the rapture, but now I think it referred to exactly what they asked about: when the Temple would be destroyed.
I have heard a number of preachers talking about how the Good News must be preached to all nations, but according to Paul in Colossians 1:23, which had already happened before the destruction of the Temple. And the abomination of desolation standing where he should not be probably refers to the Romans entering the Temple.
So often, though, prophecies will refer both to near future events and events that occur much later. Perhaps this is one of those places. I leave you to draw your own conclusions. I just know that Jesus is coming for us at some point in the future and if we are already dead, we will be raised incorruptible. If we are still alive we will join the Lord in the air and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
Tomorrow, we’ll read Matthew 24.

Election Day, 2012

Today, is the day we elect our government officials at all levels. Hope you voted. I voted absentee ballot here in Florida. I’m glad I didn’t have to stand in the voting booth since we had 11 Amendments on the ballot.
May God have mercy on and bless America.
Until next time…