For future reference
Timeline for
Matthew 24 using a preterist/historicist understanding and avoiding futuristic misconceptions.
Section 1: Destruction of Jerusalem (70 AD)
- Verses 1-3: Jesus predicts the destruction of the Temple
- Verses 4-14: Signs leading up to the destruction:
- False prophets and messiahs (4-5)
- Wars and rumors of wars (6-7)
- Famines, earthquakes, and pestilences (7-8)
- Persecution of Christians (9-10)
- Gospel preached to all nations (14)
- Verses 15-22: The abomination of desolation (Roman destruction of Jerusalem)
- Verses 23-28: Warning against false prophets and messiahs
- Verses 29-31: Cosmic disturbances and the sign of the Son of Man (Jesus' victory and exaltation)
- Verse 32-35: The parable of the fig tree (AD 70-Israel's destruction )
Section 2: Second Coming
- Verses 36-44: Unknown day and hour of Jesus' return
- Verses 45-51: Faithfulness and watchfulness required
Note:
- The events in Section 1 conclude in 70 AD with the destruction of Jerusalem.
- Section 2 refers to the Second Coming of Jesus, which has not yet occurred.
This timeline highlights the two distinct sections of
Matthew 24, separating the events leading up to the destruction of Jerusalem from the Second Coming of Jesus.