Matthew 24:3 And as Jesus sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of your coming, and of the end of the world? 4 And Jesus answered and said unto them take heed that no man deceives you.
The disciples in Christ’s day had questions for Jesus concerning the signs pertaining to the destruction of Jerusalem, and the end of the world, because the two issues needed some clarification in their minds. Thus, as Jesus responded to the disciples’ questions pertaining to the destruction of Jerusalem anciently, and the end of the world, Jesus addressed the two events at the same time, elaborating on that which will take place just prior to His second coming, and that which was to befall the city of Jerusalem, when Cestius and Titus would invade it.
The reason why Christ began His response with the warning against deception, is because, not only will secular persons be deceived, but the very remnant of God’s people would also be in serious danger of misunderstanding the grave nature of events which are scheduled to take place just before the close of human probation, and thereafter.
A failure to fully come to grips with the magnitude of the ordeal that is prophesied could cause folks to be lulled into a false sense of security and therefore, when the gravity of the situation unfolds many of us may not expect things to go downhill so quickly, and others would be forced into serious reckoning as we grapple with the only two options on the table.
Matthew 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. 25 Behold, I have told you before.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!