“So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.” (Matthew 24:15–16 ESV).
Matthew recorded Jesus speaking to His disciples on the Mount of Olives about future events surrounding Jerusalem, the temple, and His coming. Jesus pointed them back to Daniel’s prophecy of the “abomination of desolation” (Dan. 9:27; 11:31; 12:11), a phrase that described a detestable, idolatrous act that defiled the holy place and brought devastation. In Daniel’s description, this referred to a pagan altar or image set up in the temple, desecrating worship and halting sacrifice.
Jesus warned that a similar event would signal a coming time of unprecedented tribulation. While the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70 fulfilled His earlier statement that not one stone of the temple would be left upon another, it did not fully satisfy Daniel’s prophecy of a specific abomination standing in the holy place. From a futurist perspective, Jesus’ words anticipated a rebuilt temple in which a final, blasphemous image or act of desecration would occur, marking the beginning of the climactic distress before His return. His command to flee underscored both the reality and the urgency of that future moment.
We recognize that the idea of a rebuilt temple in Jerusalem seems unlikely from a human point of view. Yet history reminds us that the reestablishment of Israel as a nation once seemed just as impossible. Rather than speculating endlessly, we focus on what Jesus clearly commanded. We commit ourselves to proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom to all nations while there is still time. We also choose to live in readiness, watching for and loving His appearing. Daniel’s prophecy is not meant to stir fear in us, but faithfulness. As we wait and witness, we anchor our hope in the certainty of Christ’s return.
PRAYER: Dear Father, You rule over history and keep every promise You have spoken. Help us to live with urgency and faithfulness in these days. Give us boldness to share the gospel with all nations and hearts that long for Your Son’s appearing. Keep us watchful, hopeful, and steadfast until He returns. In Jesus’ name, amen.