#36: Wednesday, 1 April, 2020
**Wednesday, 1 April — The Messiah Claims His Kingdom on Earth. Matthew 24:1–35**
Jesus contrasts two prophetic functions: foretelling future events and forthtelling — "they speak out against injustice and disobedience." Chapter 24 demonstrates Jesus foretelling future events.
The disciples ask Jesus about the temple's destruction and request a timeline, interpreting this event as signaling the end times. However, Jesus's prediction reflects his role replacing the Old Testament temple as the dwelling place of God, the intermediary between humanity and God, the source of forgiveness, and the community's true center.
Four essential roles of Jesus replace the temple's function:
- The temple housed God's presence; Jesus embodies Emmanuel — "God is with us" - The temple facilitated prayer and intercession; Jesus serves as the new intermediary - The temple provided sin forgiveness through sacrifice; Jesus offers himself as the ultimate sacrifice - The temple unified Israel's community; Jesus becomes the community's spiritual center
Jesus prophesies that Jerusalem's destruction within one generation proves his prophetic credentials. Between the crucifixion and 70 AD, the gospel would spread throughout the Mediterranean world, fulfilling prophecy documented multiple times in Acts and Paul's epistles.
Jesus declared that he was claiming his kingdom. He put some clear prophecies on the table to prove his credentials. Those prophecies were fulfilled.
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, I suppose the disciples found these words of yours difficult. So if they did, it's not surprising that I do. But I'm going to set aside for the time being what I don't understand and just stand under your sure promise. You are God, you are King and you have died to redeem me, body and spirit. I will trust you. Amen.