What Did the Disciples Ask Jesus to Teach Them?
What Did the Disciples Ask Jesus to Teach Them?
While studying the New Testament, a common question posed to Jesus by the disciples often arises in modern forums such as Quora. This question, regarding the signs of His coming and the end of the world, is intricately detailed in passages found in the Gospel of Matthew (chapter 24), Luke (chapter 21), and Mark (chapter 13). This discourse is known as the Olivet Discourse. This article will dissect the context and significance of this exchange, providing a deeper understanding of Jesus' teachings.
Understanding the Question
The question the disciples posed to Jesus is: 'What will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the world?' This translation has led many to believe it refers to the Second Advent or the end of the physical world. However, by delving into the ancient Greek wordings, we can gain a more nuanced understanding of the original intent.
The Significance of 'Coming'
The Greek word ε?μι (eimi) used in the text means 'to be' or 'to begin to be.' It doesn't necessarily refer to a second coming, but rather the realization and manifestation of what Jesus had taught.
The 'End of the World'
The phrase 'end of the world' in the original Greek is captured by the word συντελεια (sunteleia), which means 'completeness and culmination.' This context necessitates a broader understanding, focusing on the end of the Jewish age rather than the end of human existence.
Context and Historical Significance
As Jesus speaks these words, he is aware of the destruction of Herod's Temple and the consequential dispersion and diaspora of the Jewish people. This was not the eschatological end as defined by the cessation of human existence; thus, Jesus was referring to the culmination of the current Jewish paradigm, not the end of humanity. His listeners, however, did not have the full perspective as they yet needed to see the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
Reinterpreting the Question
The sentence should be reinterpreted as: 'What will be the visual manifestation of when the teachings you have given us will begin to be realized, and of the culmination of this current age or paradigm?' This suggests that the signs the disciples were seeking were more about the fulfillment of Jesus' teachings and the transformation of the world as He had described.
The Context of Jesus' Answer
Following this initial question, Jesus describes a period of tribulation and anguish. This describes the events leading up to the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD, exactly 40 years after Jesus' death and resurrection. The world, as they knew it, changed dramatically after these events, and this serves as a significant part of the fulfillment of Jesus' teachings.
Closing Thoughts
Jesus' teachings and the events that followed represent a profound shift in the world's religious and cultural landscape. The culmination of the current paradigm refers to the culmination of the Jewish nation's faith and its fulfillment in the broader context of human salvation through Christianity. This announcement is a clear statement that Jesus came to save all of humanity, a statement as sure as the sun rising in the east each morning.
The Olivet Discourse, therefore, goes beyond a discussion about the physical world's end to address the spiritual and historical transformations brought about by Jesus' teachings. Understanding this context is crucial for a comprehensive grasp of Jesus' message.