The Birth Pangs
Read: Matthew 24:3-14
It seems in verse 3 that the disciples link the destruction of the temple with Jesus coming and the
close of the age. This allows Jesus to distinguish His coming which is an eschatological (End
Times) event from the destruction of the temple. Jesus teachings are to extend their horizons, to
make them realize that a continuation without the temple until the close of the age is possible and
that the end of the temple is not necessarily the end of all things. Jesus reply begins immediately
with what is to be one of His main themes – the danger of being led astray. He tells them that
many will come in His name and will lead many astray (verse 5). This does not mean that they
come with, or even claim, His authority. He is the only Christ and anyone else claiming that role is
an imposter. Throughout the history of the church many have made claims to messianic identity.
Jesus disciples must be on their guard against such people. Similarly, wars and natural disasters
such as famines and earthquakes are a signs of the beginning of the end (verse 6-7). These are
the beginning of the birth pangs (verse 8). Birth pangs indicate that there will be a time of suffering
prior to Christ’s second coming. Verses 9-12 similarly speak in general terms of the sufferings to
come. Jesus predicts tribulations, death and hatred towards His disciples. This persecution will
take its toll in that many will fall away. He also prophesies that many will fall away because they
have been led astray by false prophets; that people will betray one another and hate each other.
Deception from both the world and from within the church will be prevalent. Disciples must test the
spirits to determine whether or not they acknowledge that Jesus is the Messiah (1 John 2:18-27;
4:1-6). Jesus speaks of lawlessness increasing and love growing cold. This is a somber picture of
the church in decline. Yet the gospel will be preached to all nations – then the end will come. The
end cannot come until the gospel has reached all people. Endurance is a key End Times theme
and we see it in verse 13. The one who endures to the end will be saved - either through the return
of Christ or the end of one’s life.
PRAYER and MEDITATION
1. Read through today’s passage of scripture again. What are some of the birth pangs that
Jesus is talking about (verses 4-8)?
2. What are some of the other key events that will signal that the end is drawing near (verses
9-14)?
3. What is the key to making it through this tough time (verse 13)? Ask the Lord for some ways
that you can being to build a solid foundation so that you will stand firm until the end.
