Mark 13:1-8

Mark 13:1-8

1. The first thing that demands our attention is the prediction of our Lord concerning the temple at Jerusalem.
2. The second thing that demands our attention is the remarkable manner in which our Lord commences the great prophecy of this chapter.

"Let us learn from this solemn saying, that the true glory of a Church does not consist in its buildings for public worship, but in the faith and godliness of its members. The eyes of our Lord Jesus Christ could find no pleasure in looking at the very temple which contained the holy of holies, and the golden candlestick, and the altar of burnt offering."

"We need not doubt the Parthenon had no glory in God's sight compared to the dens and caves where the early Christians worshiped, or that the lowest room where Christ is preached at this day, is more honorable in his eyes than St. Peter's Cathedral at Rome."

"It looks as if our Lord knew well that man is always catching at the idea of a "good time coming," and as if He would give us plain notice that there will be no "good time" until He returns."

Questions:

1. Do we put any confidence in the building we worship in or the quality of the music ministry, or do we primarily value the preaching of the gospel and pursuing holiness?

2. Do we hold high expectations of things getting better, or do we have moderate expectations of difficulty and trouble like this passage shows us?