Gary puts Matthew 24, or what is commonly called Jesus’ Olivet Discourse, under the microscope.
The question before us is simple: Does the Olivet Discourse (Matt. 24; Mark 13; and Luke 21) describe signs that were fulfilled in (1) events leading up to and including the destruction of the temple in AD 70, (2) a future generation, (3) a past generation and a future fulfillment (double fulfillment), or (4) a micro/macro fulfillment? Attempts to get around the plain language of Matthew 24:34 and the meaning of “this generation” are not exegetically viable.
I. A first-century fulfillment of the Olivet Discourse is not a novel interpretation.
II. Older Bible Commentators from different denominational backgrounds have interpreted the Olivet Discourse as fulfilled before that first-century generation passed away.
III. The context for the Olivet Discourse is found in the Matthew 23 when Jesus spoke to the “multitudes and to His disciples” (Matt. 23:1) that included the scribes and Pharisees (23:13) regarding the future of Jerusalem (23:37) and the desolation of the temple (23:38). Jesus was in the temple when He declared that their “house” was going to be left to them “desolate” (23:38). This word about the temple’s desolation leads Jesus’ disciples “to point out the temple buildings to Him” (Matt. 24:1). But before this Jesus made a statement that many believe is a promise that one day in the distant future Israel will embrace Jesus as the Messiah. How Jesus meant “until” — makes all the difference in how this verse is interpreted.
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Buy NowGary puts Matthew 24, or what is commonly called Jesus’ Olivet Discourse, under the microscope. He responds specifically to the “mixed” approach, which teaches that there are elements of past fulfillment (preterism) and future fulfillment (futurism) throughout the Discourse.