ARE THESE REALLY THE LAST DAYS? - The End of Jerusalem

The End of Jerusalem

Consider first what Jesus said about Jerusalem and its temple.  Over three decades in advance, he foretold a time of terrible hardships for one of the greatest cities in the world.  Notice in particular his words recorded at Luke 21:20, 21: "When you see Jerusalem surrounded by encamped armies, then know that the desolating of her has drawn near.  Then let those  in Judea begin fleeing to the mountains, and let those in the midst of her withdraw , and let those in the country places not enter into her" simply "withdraw," as Jesus had commanded?  Clearly, Jesus was implying that a window of opportunity would open up.  Did it? 


In 66 C.E., the Roman armies under the command of Cestius Gallus had beaten the Jewish rebel forces back to Jerusalem and had them pinned within the city.  The Romans even made a thrust into the city itself and reached as far as the temple  wall.  But then Gallus directed his armies to do something truly baffling.  he ordered them to retreat!  Elated Jewish soldiers set out in pursuit  and inflicted damage on their fleeing Roman enemies.  Thus, Jesus' foretold window of opportunity opened.  True Christians heeded his warning and got out of Jerusalem.  Wisely so, for just four years later, the Roman armies were back with General Titus leading them.  This time no escape was possible.

The Roman armies surrounded Jerusalem again; they built a fortification of pointed stakes around it.  Jesus had prophesied  regarding Jerusalem:  "The days will come upon you when your enemies will build around you a fortification with pointed stakes and will encircle you and distress you from every side."  (Luke 19:43)  Before long, Jerusalem fell; its glorious temple was reduced to smoldering ruins.  Jesus' words were fulfilled in every detail! 

Jesus had far more in mine, though, than that destruction of Jerusalem.  His disciples had also asked him about the sign of his presence.  They did not know it, but this referred to a time when he would be installed to reign as King in heaven.  What did he foretell?

Next time: ARE THESE REALLY THE LAST DAYS? - War in the Last Days

The Watchtower, 1997