Shema Living During End Times (#14)
For then there will be great suffering unlike anything that has happened from the beginning of the world until now, or ever will happen. And if those days had not been cut short, no one would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short. (Matthew 24:21-22)
You can hear people say, “That was the worst ever! I’m never going back!” or “I couldn’t believe it! That was the best ever!” Whether it was a ball game, a meal at a restaurant, or whatever moment sometimes the takeaway from the occasion receives the rating of below zero or a “100” out of 10. Honestly, the accuracy of the “ever” statement may be easily questioned as an exaggeration, but the hyperbole does portray the feelings of the person without question.
Jesus’ prophecy about the days prior to His appearance will be unlike any other. In particular, the suffering that will be experienced will exceed any and all suffering that has occurred in previous centuries and generations. The strain and cruelty that will be inflicted upon the Christ-followers who remain will meet an incomprehensible expression of malice and brutality. This will be, without any doubt and clearly understood as the great tribulation. In short, Jesus is not exaggerating!
In Matthew 24, Jesus, first, defined the event that marks this occasion: So when you see the abomination of desolation – spoken about by Daniel the prophet – standing in the holy place” (let the reader understand)… (v. 15)
Next, Jesus gave specific instructions to His people on they should immediately respond when this moment in the Temple takes place…flee!
then those in Judea must flee to the mountains. The one on the roof must not come down to take anything out of his house, and the one in the field must not turn back to get his cloak. Woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing their babies in those days! Pray that your flight may not be in winter or on a Sabbath. (vv. 16-20)
From these words, the urgent instruction is to flee and work to preserve your life, Jesus’ warning already begins to indicate the distress that may be encountered. If pregnant or nursing your quick get-away will be hindered due to the mother’s circumstances. Additionally, the time of season, winter, or the day, the Sabbath, if happening on either or both of those times will be an influence to all people as the elements and the Sabbath laws could inhibit one’s quick access to “flee to the mountains.”
However, the danger that lies ahead will only become more intense. The word “tribulation” denotes a time of trouble and suffering. The New Testament speaks of tribulations as a reality for the disciple of Christ Jesus. First, Jesus guaranteed future tribulations in living in this world, He had overcome them. (John 16:33) Next, Paul often spoke of the reality of tribulations and the choice to be patient and joyful while enduring them (Romans 12:12: 2 Corinthians 7:4). Finally, the experience of suffering and trouble cannot separate a follower of Christ from His love (Romans 8:35). These truths and promises will be vital to cling to during the Great Tribulation of suffering.
Yet, Jesus testifies to a silver-lining. He speaks of “those days were shortened” and they are shortened because of the “elect.”
What does Jesus mean by “elect”? With the verse indicating the whole world…”no flesh would be saved” it seems to indicate a larger audience and context than Judaism. Elect signifies those who are ‘picked out’ or ‘chosen.’ Though the specific location of the Temple and Judean mountains designates Israel as the primary setting the whole world is in mind when it comes to the Great Tribulation. However, because of the elect, that is, all of God’s people, followers of the Lord Jesus will be His reason to step in and cut short this time of intense trouble and deep distress.
What does Jesus mean by “unless those days were shortened…”? The word “shortened” means to cut off, amputate, leave a stump. It is important to note that the 70th week of Daniel is not cut short. This prophetic week will last its full seven years. What is shortened is the Great Tribulation! It will be less than the full three and one-half years, the final half of the Great Tribulation. God, with His own in mind, graciously steps in, on their behalf, and mercy is extended to all.
Grace and truth…the truth of the severe, unseen before suffering will not negate the favor of God to step toward His people and rescue them.
Our Father, Your ways always remain in effect. Even in the darkest of times to come You will give grace and salvation and survival. Truly,Your eyes are on Your own! What great solace and peace is afforded even with such an evil time of chaos, distress, and suffering to occur. Father, encourage our hearts to be faithful to You and to watch and pray with accuracy regarding the unfolding of Your second advent. Give us the heart to receive suffering as You did…endured patiently and believed joyfully as You look forward to bless the persecuted (Matthew 5:10-12) and receive those who are joint-heirs with You because of suffering with You. (Romans 8:17) In Jesus’ name, amen.
