In Mark 13:14-18, Jesus provides a clue about the "abomination of desolation" by referencing a specific prophecy from the Book of Daniel. Here's the passage:
Mark 13:14-18 (ESV):
“But when you see the abomination of desolation standing where it ought not to be (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let the one who is on the housetop not go down, nor enter his house, to take anything out, and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. And alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! Pray that it may not happen in winter.”
Key Clue:
Reference to Daniel: The phrase "abomination of desolation" is a direct reference to prophecies found in the Book of Daniel (specifically Daniel 9:27, 11:31, and 12:11). In these passages, Daniel describes an event where something sacrilegious would be set up in the holy place, causing desolation.
Implication:
Historical Context: In the historical context, this phrase is often interpreted as referring to events like the desecration of the Jewish Temple by Antiochus IV Epiphanes in 167 BC, but most likely the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD by the Romans. Both events involved significant sacrilege and devastation.
Understanding the Sign: Jesus' instruction to flee when this event occurs emphasizes the severity of the situation. The "abomination of desolation" serves as a sign for the disciples and others to recognize that a catastrophic event is imminent, prompting urgent action.
The reference to Daniel and the emphasis on the urgency of fleeing when this sign appears provide the clues needed to understand the "abomination of desolation."
More: Sabbath School Lesson 10 Book of Mark
No comments:
Post a Comment