Question 1

What does Jesus mean by no stone left on another in this passage?

Accepted Answer

When Jesus says that not one stone will be left on another, he is talking about the complete destruction of the temple the disciples were admiring. They saw huge, strong stones and thought the building would last. Jesus shows that even the most impressive human work is temporary. His words picture a total tearing down, not just damage. This teaches that God is not tied to buildings. What really matters is trusting him, not resting in religious structures or outward glory that can be taken away.

Question 2

Why were the disciples so impressed with the temple buildings?

Accepted Answer

The disciples saw the temple as something beautiful and strong. Its stones were very large, and the whole complex looked grand. For them, it was not only a national symbol but also connected to their hope that Jesus was the promised king. Pointing out the stones was their way of saying, “Look how solid and glorious this is.” They likely assumed such a place would stand and be part of God’s plan for a long time, which made Jesus’ prediction of its fall very shocking to them.

Question 3

Why does Jesus begin with a warning about deception in this passage?

Accepted Answer

When the disciples ask about the future, Jesus does not first give dates or a timetable. Instead, he warns, “Take heed lest any man deceive you.” He knows that fear about the future can make people easy to mislead. He explains that many will come in his name, claiming to be the Christ, and will fool many. So his first concern is that his followers stay clear-minded, rooted in him, and not run after impressive voices or claims. Staying alert to deception is part of being ready.

Question 4

What does Jesus mean by wars, rumours of wars, and not being troubled?

Accepted Answer

Jesus tells his disciples that they will hear of wars and even rumours of wars, but they should not be troubled or lose heart. Conflicts and talk of conflicts are not a sign that everything is out of God’s control or that the final end has come. He says these things must happen, yet “the end shall not be yet.” This helps believers see that turmoil in the world is real but not the last word. Their calling is to keep faithful in their work instead of being driven by fear.

Question 5

What are the beginnings of sorrows that Jesus talks about here?

Accepted Answer

Jesus describes wars, nations rising against each other, earthquakes, famines, and other troubles as “the beginnings of sorrows.” The word points to the first pains a woman feels in childbirth. Early pains are real and serious, but they are not the final ones. In the same way, these early disasters are real suffering, but they are not yet the full judgment or the final end. They show that the world is groaning, and they prepare God’s people to endure more severe trials that may follow.

Question 6

Who are the false Christs Jesus warns about in this passage?

Accepted Answer

Jesus says that many will come in his name, saying, “I am” or “I am Christ,” and will deceive many. These are people who claim to be the promised savior or to stand in his place. They use his name and the longing people have for rescue to lead them off the right path. The warning teaches that not everyone who speaks loudly about being chosen by God is truly from God. Believers are called to test such claims against Jesus’ words and hold tightly to him alone.

Question 7

How can this passage help believers think about suffering and world events today?

Accepted Answer

This passage reminds believers that big events like wars, natural disasters, and shortages do not mean God has lost control. Jesus said such things would happen and called them the beginning of birth pains. So when we see these things, we should not panic or give in to every new prediction. Instead, we can remember that God already sees the whole story. Our part is to stay faithful, watchful, and guarded against lies, trusting that God’s purposes go beyond what we can see around us.

Question 8

What was happening when Jesus spoke from the Mount of Olives?

Accepted Answer

Jesus had just left the temple after teaching there and facing opposition. As he walked out, one disciple commented on the size and beauty of the temple stones and buildings. Jesus then said it would all be thrown down. Later, sitting on the Mount of Olives across from the temple, he could see the whole complex. In that quiet, private setting, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked him when this would happen and what sign would show it. His answer begins with warnings and reminders, not dates.

Mark 13:1

And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!

Temple Destruction and Other Signs

metadata.crossReferences

Mark 13:1

And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!

share.title

share.allVerses

share.verseWithContext

share.currentVerse

Temple Destruction and Other Signs

metadata.crossReferences