What does Matthew 24:7 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 24:7 is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible, which is attributed to Jesus speaking about the signs of the end times or the "last days." The verse describes various catastrophic events and occurrences of widespread strife: wars between nations, conflicts between kingdoms, famines, pestilences (or plagues), and earthquakes occurring in various places.

While the verse details these events literally, its deeper meaning is often taken to be metaphorical, symbolizing the birth pangs of a new era or the hardship and chaos preceding the anticipated Second Coming of Christ.

Historical Context

This verse is part of what is known as the Olivet Discourse, which includes Jesus' teachings on the Mount of Olives. The discourse is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.

It is given in response to the disciples’ questions regarding the destruction of the temple and the signs of Jesus' return and the end of the age.

The historical context is situated around 30 A.D., a period of tension and anticipation within Jewish society under Roman occupation.

At this time, there were expectations of a Messiah who would deliver Israel from its oppressors and restore the kingdom.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives interpret Matthew 24:7 in various ways.

Preterists argue that Jesus' predictions were fulfilled in the first century, particularly in the destruction of Jerusalem and its Temple in 70 A.D.

Futurists believe that these prophecies remain to be fulfilled in a future end-time scenario.

Historicists interpret the text as depicting ongoing historical conflicts, while Idealists see it as symbolic of spiritual or moral conflict throughout time.

Practical Applications

The verse offers several practical applications for believers.

It serves as a reminder to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that current struggles are temporary.

It can motivate believers to live morally upright lives, engage in peacemaking, provide for those in need (such as during famines), and prepare for difficulties.

It also stresses the importance of remaining spiritually vigilant and not being led astray by the chaos of the world.

Cross-References

• Matthew 24:4-6 – "And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.

For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.

And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars..."

• Luke 21:11 – "And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven."
• Revelation 6:5-8 – Descriptions of the Four Horsemen, in which are mentioned similar calamities such as war, famine, and death.

Language Study

The original Koine Greek words for "nation" and "kingdom" are ἔθνος (ethnos) and βασιλεία (basileia), respectively. ἔθνος often referred to a non-Jewish nation, people or a group of individuals of the same nature, and βασιλεία generally denoted sovereignty, royal power, or dominion. Σεισμός (seismos), typically translated as "earthquake," can also mean any commotion or shaking like a tempest or a storm.

These language nuances contribute to different interpretations of the verse.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The depiction of apocalyptic events can be found in various cultural and religious texts outside of Christianity.

For example, in the Hindu scriptures, there are descriptions of the end of an age (yuga) filled with conflict and degradation of morality.

Similarly, in Norse mythology, Ragnarok is a series of devastating events, including battles and natural disasters, leading to the end of the world.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific point of view, earthquakes, famines, and epidemics are natural phenomena that have occurred throughout Earth's history.

Scientists study patterns in these events to understand their causes and predict future occurrences.

These signs are not necessarily seen as evidence for an impending end of the world but are understood within the context of environmental science and population dynamics.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators throughout history have provided interpretations of Matthew 24:7.

For instance, John Wesley, an 18th-century evangelist, saw this verse as prophetic of the troubles that would come upon the earth before the end times.

More recent scholars often approach the verse both in terms of its historical context, as warning to the first-century Christians about upheaval in Judea, and its eschatological implications for Christian theology regarding the return of Christ.

Some modern commentators also see in the passage a call to active engagement with the world's problems, as signs of the kingdom of God are not only future but also present realities requiring the church’s response.