Prophetic Warnings and Our Response
Image courtesy of : PierceDesigns
Devotional by J.Pierce
Prayer:
"Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word and the guidance it provides. As we delve into the prophetic warnings given by Yeshua, open our hearts and minds to understand and respond faithfully. Help us to be vigilant, prepared, and active in sharing Your gospel. In the name of Yeshua, we pray. Amen."
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Introduction:
In Matthew 24:14-16, Yeshua speaks to His disciples about the signs of the end times. This passage is part of the Olivet Discourse, where He provides prophetic insights about the future, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and the proclamation of the gospel. Understanding these warnings and knowing how to respond is crucial for every believer.
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Scripture Exploration:
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Matthew 24:14-16
14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.
15 When therefore ye see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let him that readeth understand),
16 then let them that are in Judaea flee unto the mountains:
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Deep Dive: Exploring the Scriptures in Depth
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Verse 14: Yeshua emphasizes the global mission of the gospel. The good news of Yahweh's kingdom will be preached to all nations, serving as a testimony before the end times come. This highlights the inclusivity and reach of Yahweh's salvation plan.
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Verse 15: Yeshua refers to the "abomination of desolation," a term that originates from the Book of Daniel in the Old Testament. This phrase describes a sacrilegious act that defiles the holy place, traditionally understood to be the Temple in Jerusalem. In Daniel, the term is used in three key passages:
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Daniel 9:27: "And he shall make a firm covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease; and upon the wing of abominations shall come one that maketh desolate; and even unto the consummation, and that determined, shall wrath be poured out upon the desolate."
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This prophecy speaks of a future ruler who will make a covenant and then cause sacrifices to cease, leading to abominations that result in desolation.
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2. Daniel 11:31: "And forces shall stand on his part, and they shall profane the sanctuary, even the fortress, and shall take away the continual burnt offering, and they shall set up the abomination that maketh desolate."
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This verse describes forces that will desecrate the sanctuary and set up an abomination that causes desolation, disrupting the regular worship practices.
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3. Daniel 12:11: "And from the time that the continual burnt offering shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand and two hundred and ninety days."
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This passage provides a timeline related to the cessation of daily offerings and the setting up of the abomination, pointing to a period of tribulation.
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Historically, the abomination of desolation has been associated with events such as the desecration of the Temple by Antiochus Epiphanes in 167 BC, who erected an altar to Zeus and sacrificed pigs in the Temple, and the destruction of the Temple by the Romans in AD 70. Yeshua's reference to this prophecy emphasizes the gravity of such events and their fulfillment in future occurrences.
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Verse 16: In response to witnessing the abomination of desolation, Yeshua instructs those in Judea to flee to the mountains. This call to immediate action underscores the severity and urgency of the situation, urging quick and decisive movement for safety.
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Relatable Scenario
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Consider a community living near a volcano that has been dormant for centuries. Suddenly, the volcano shows signs of an imminent eruption. Emergency services issue a clear warning, advising residents to evacuate immediately to safe areas. Those who heed the warning and act swiftly find refuge, while those who ignore it face serious and immediate danger.
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Understand the Core Message
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The core message of Matthew 24:14-16 revolves around the urgency of proclaiming the gospel and the need for vigilance and preparedness in response to prophetic signs. Yeshua's warnings are meant to prompt action and readiness among believers, ensuring that they are spiritually and practically prepared for the unfolding of Yahweh's plan.
Reflection & Application:
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How can we actively participate in the global proclamation of the gospel in our daily lives?
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What are the spiritual dangers or 'abominations' we need to be aware of and avoid today?
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In what ways can we prepare ourselves and our communities for Yahweh's unfolding plan?
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Practical Steps or Challenge:
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Engage in Evangelism: Find opportunities to share the gospel with those around you, whether through personal conversations, social media, or community involvement.
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Stay Informed: Study biblical prophecies and stay aware of current events to discern their significance in light of Scripture.
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Seek Refuge in Yahweh: Deepen your relationship with Yahweh through prayer, worship, and study of His Word, ensuring a strong spiritual foundation.
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Closing Prayer:​
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"Yahweh, thank You for the prophetic warnings and guidance You provide through Your Word. Help us to be vigilant and ready for Your coming kingdom. Empower us to share the gospel boldly and live in a way that honors You. Guide us to recognize and respond to the signs of the times with faith and obedience. In Yeshua's name, we pray. Amen."
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Further Study:
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Daniel 9:27, 11:31, 12:11
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Mark 13:14-20
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Luke 21:20-24
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Revelation 13:1-18
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Concluding Thoughts:
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Matthew 24:14-16 calls us to be aware of Yahweh's unfolding plan and to actively participate in His mission. As we proclaim the gospel and remain vigilant, we align ourselves with Yahweh's purposes and find refuge in His promises. Let us live with readiness and hope, trusting in Yahweh's sovereign plan.
Powerful