Matthew_24.asp

Atlanta Bible Students

The Book of Matthew

Chapter 24

Go To Verse 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51

Verses 1-14 Cover the entire Gospel Age

[1] And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to show him the buildings of the temple. [2] And Jesus said unto them, See you not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.

Verses 1-2 Expanded Bible Comments

And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to show him the buildings of the temple. [2] And Jesus said unto them, See you not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
Question	Answer
Where had Jesus been teaching?	In the temple.
What did the disciples want to do?	They wanted to show him the temple. Clearly they were very impressed by it.
What did Jesus tell them about the temple?	"There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down."
Did Jesus here tell his disciples the truth? If so, has this already happened or is it in the future?	This happened on August 2, 70 A.D. (the 9th of Av). The Romans set the temple on fire and the fire burned the temple so thouroughly that the gold on the walls of the temple melted into the cracks between the stones. The Roman soldiers literally removed each stone of the temple in order to get to that gold.

[3] And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy presence, and of the end of the age? [4] And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. [5] For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. [6] And you shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that you be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. [7] For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. [8] All these are the beginning of sorrows. [9] Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and you shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. [10] And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. [11] And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. [12] And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. [13] But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. [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.

Verse 3 Expanded Bible Comments

And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy presence, and of the end of the age?
Question	Answer
Where were Jesus and his disciples?	"Upon the mount of Olives."
Were the common people with them?	No. "As he sat.. the disciples came unto him privately.."
The Three Questions
1) "When shall these things be?" – What things?	The things Jesus had just said to them about the temple. "There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down."
2) "What shall be the sign of thy presence?" – Are we sure it is the word "presence" and not "coming?"	One Hundred percent yes! Strong's G3952 παρουσία parousia par-oo-see'-ah From the present participle of G3918; a being near, that is, advent (often, return; specifically of Christ to punish Jerusalem, or finally the wicked); (by implication) physical aspect: - coming, presence. It is the exact opposite of the Greek word: Strong's G666 ἀπουσία apousia ap-oo-see'-ah From the participle of G548; a being away: - absence. Phil. 2:12
3) "..and the end of the world?" (KJV) – Is it really "the end of the world?"	Strong's G165 αἰών aiōn ahee-ohn' From the same as G104; properly an age; by extension perpetuity (also past); by implication the world; specifically (Jewish) a Messianic period (present or future): - age, course, eternal, (for) ever (-more), [n-]ever, (beginning of the, while the) world (began, without end). Compare G5550. No. Rotherham says "the conclusion of the age." Most other translations say "end of the age," or words to that effect.

Verses 4-5 Expanded Bible Comments

And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. [5] For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
Question	Answer
What was our Lord's first response to his disciples' questions?	"Take heed that no man deceive you."
What characteristics are shown by this response?	Loving concern, acting as the "Good Shepherd," etc. It may also good for us to notice that his first response was to give them warning.
Did Jesus warn us about a coming deceiver?	No. He warned us about many decivers.
How could such a deciever be recognized?	They would claim to be the Christ or a Christ.
How many would be fooled by such this deception?	"Many!"

Verses 6-8 Expanded Bible Comments

And you shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that you be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. [7] For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. [8] All these are the beginning of sorrows.
Question	Answer
Does the hearing of wars and rumors of wars indicate the end of the Age is here?	No. Jesus added "All these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet."
When the Lord's people hear of these, how are they supposed to respond?	"See that you be not troubled."
When the saints observe "All thest things" coming to pass, what does it indicate to them?	"The end is not yet."
What about when "nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places." What does this indicate?	"All these are the beginning of sorrows."
Is there a difference between "nation rising nation" and "kingdom against kingdom?"	Yes. Not every nation, even in our Lord's day, was a kingdom. There were other forms of government, though kingdoms were the most common.
What is meant by "earthquakes in divers places?"	Revolutions in various and different places. Civil rights, Education of the masses, Worker's rights, Women's rights, Communist revolution, etc., etc.
What do all these things indicate?	"All these are the beginning of sorrows."

Verse 9 Expanded Bible Comments

Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and you shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.
Question	Answer
When is "Then?"	During the Gospel Age. D566, D584
Are the Lord's people really to be "afflicted" during the Gospel Age?	Yes. R5173:24; John 16:1-3; Rev. 6:9-11.
Why would the saints "be hated of all nations?"	"For my name's sake." John 16:3

Verse 10 Expanded Bible Comments

And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
Question	Answer
When is "then?"	During the Gospel Age.
"Then shall many be offended." Who are the "many" that are "offended?"	This does not say "the world shall be offended." This seems to be speaking of those who were among the brethren, in other words, nominal Christians.
Of those who are offended, what two things will they do?	"Betray one another" and "hate one another."

Verse 11 Expanded Bible Comments

And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.
Question	Answer
What is a false prophet?	Isa. 8:20.; Jer. 5:23,26-28,31; Deut. 13:1-3; 18:22
Where did these false prophets come from?	Acts 20:29-30.

Verse 12 Expanded Bible Comments

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
Question	Answer
What would cause this condition: "iniquity shall abound?"	False prophets teaching false doctrine leads. Our God is a God of Truth. The study of His Truth is paramount. The highest of all sciences is the science of Divine Revelation. When we study His word and we absorb His principles of Truth and Righteousness, we become more like Him in our own character, even as the Apostle suggests. – Rom. 12:2
What is the result of this abounding iniquity?	"The love of many shall wax cold." – Rev. 2:4; 2 Thes. 2:10,12

Verse 13 Expanded Bible Comments

But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Question	Answer
Endure what?	Endure the testings and conditions spoken of in verses 9-12.
For how long is one to endure?	This question has a two-fold answer. 1) As a class the saings need to endure unto the end of the Gospel Age. 2) Individually each saint needs to endure unto the end of their earthly life.
What is the result of "enduring unto the end?"	"The same shall be saved."

Verse 14 Expanded Bible Comments

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.
Question	Answer
What is to be preached "in all the world?"	"The gospel of the kingdom."
To how many nations is this to be preached?	"Unto all nations."
To what purpose is this to be preached to all nations?	"For a witness." It is important to note this. Our Lord said nothing about converting the nations, merely that it should be "for a witness unto all nations."
When is this to be done?	Prior to the end of the Gospel Age. – "Then shall the end come."
What is the "gospel of the kingdom?"	Strong's G2098 εὐαγγέλιον euaggelion yoo-ang-ghel'-ee-on From the same as G2097; a good message, that is, the gospel: - gospel. The Scriptures define the gospel in Gal. 3:8. When we go back to where this quote is taken from, we see that it is even more plain. Here God makes His promise to Abraham: Gen. 12:3. Later in this same chapter (Galations 3,) Paul reminds us that the "seed" of Abraham includes the members of the body of Christ. – Gal. 3:16,29

"Verses 15 to 22 have a double application, literally to the Jewish Age and figuratively to the end of the Gospel Age of which the Jewish Age was a shadow" B160

[15] When you therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) [16] Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: [17] Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: [18] Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. [19] And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! [20] But pray you that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: [21] For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. [22] And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.

Verses 15-16 Expanded Bible Comments

When you therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) [16] Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:
Question	Answer
What is "the abomination of desolation?"	C102; NS77; R5641.
Where did Daniel speak of it?	Dan. 11:31; 12:11
"Stand in the holy place." What is "the holy place?"	D572:3; C26:1.
Why did Jesus say "Stand in the holy place?"	D573.
What is meant by "whoso readeth, let him understand?"	D573.
What is the importance of "When you.. shall see?"	This does not apply prior to the recognition of "The Mystery of Iniquity." R711:3
Is this fleeing out of Jerusalem literal or symbolic?	Please see D573:1-2, and when does it apply?

Verses 17-18 Expanded Bible Comments

Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: [18] Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes.
Question	Answer
What does it mean to be "on the housetop?"	D575; R5456.
Why not "take any thing out of his house?"	The "house" is the nominal Christian Church. Do not take any of its false teachings, practices, etc.
What is "the field?"	D574.
Why not "return back to take his clothes?"	"All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags." Isa.64:6

Verse 19 Expanded Bible Comments

And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!
Question	Answer
What does this verse mean?	D575

Verse 20 Expanded Bible Comments

But pray you that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day:
Question	Answer
What is meant by "in the winter?"	In the Time of Trouble. D578:1-D579:2.

When is "the sabbath day?	The Seventh Millenium, the Day of the Lord, The Thousand Years, The Day of our Lord's Second Presence. D579

Why be concerned if your flight is in the winter?	The "winter" is the great Time of Trouble which we entered in 1914. When we remember that the Harvest is the gathering of those who were wheat already, then it would seem that the Little Flock would have faithfully obeyed the command to "come out of her my people" prior to 1914. We also remember that this is when the "four winds" were let loose, and that indicates that the 144,000 had been "sealed in their foreheads" by that time. If your "flight" from Mystic Babylon takes place during WWI, it implies that you waited too long and were likely relegated to the Great Company. By then end of WWI, the church-state union system that comprised Christendom no longer existed. Therefore those who came out of the relegious systems after that time would not have been included in this expression of our Lord.

Why be concerned if your flight is on the sabbath day?	The "sabbath day" is the seventh 1,000 year day, the Millennial Age. This indicates that it is the day of our Lord's Presence, "I stand at the door and knock." (Rev. 3:20") It is therefore during the Laodicean (or 7th) stage of the church. It was to the Philadelphia (or 6th) stage of the church that the message was given: "I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which is to come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth." (Rev. 3:10) In other words, those of Laodicea are NOT spared from this "hour of temptation" when it is more difficult to escape Babylon.

Verse 21 Expanded Bible Comments

For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
Question	Answer
When is this "great tribulation" to occur?	During the "time of the end." Dan. 11:40; Dan. 12:1.
How is this "tribulation" different from previous ones?	In the past there were tribulations (plagues.) However, these basically came one at a time. During the "great tribulation" they (the seven last plagues) come and continue to the point where all are active at the same time, giving no time to recover. See Trumpets and Plagues
Is there anything hopeful in our Lord's declaration here?	"Nor ever shall be."

Verse 22 Expanded Bible Comments

And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.
Question	Answer
What is meant by "those days?"	The days of the "great tribulation."
What is meant by "no flesh should be saved?"	There appear to be two answers to this question – both could be true. 1) The tribulation could get so great that the human race would be in danger of becoming extinct. 2) The depravity of man could get so bad that even the process of walking up the highway of holiness would not be enough to save mankind.
What is meant by "for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened?"	As before, there appear to be two answers. 1) Pastor Russell taught that this should read "by the elect those days shall be shortened." I was unable to find any translation which agreed with this. So, looking for an answer matching "for the elect's sake..," came up with the following: The elect (church) is the Bride of Christ. He is the "everlasting father" of the human race and as His Bride the church becomes the everlasting mother. The human race will become her children. Therefore the necessity of them being kept from reaching such a depraved state that the process of the kingdom would not be enough to bring tham back to harmony with God. 2) After having realized the above (1) to be true, we then took another look at how Br. Russell translated this as "by the elect" and discovered that, despite finding no translation which agreed with this, the words translated as "for the elect's sake" could just as easily have been translated as "by the elect." In other words, Br. Russell was right all along.

Verses 23-26 contain words of warning against false Christs

[23] Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. [24] For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. [25] Behold, I have told you before. [26] Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not.

Verse 23 Expanded Bible Comments

Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not.
Question	Answer
When is "Then..?"	During "the time of the end" and especially during the day of the Lord's Presence. D580
At that time, why are we not to believe when someone says "here is Christ, or there?" What about when Br. Russell told us that "Christ is here, he has returned?"	What our Lord was warning His disciples (including us) about was the false idea that men would be able to see Jesus with their natural eyes. R711

Verse 24 Expanded Bible Comments

For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.
Question	Answer
What are false Christs?	False Messiah's. – R4872; NS44
What are false prophets?	False teachers. NS44
What "great signs and wonders?"	Healing, speaking tongues, Christian Science, etc. R1736

What would be the effect of these "signs and wonders?"	Great deception upon many.
How would these impact the Lord's people?	"If it were possible, they should decieve the very elect."

Based upon discussion at the end of last weeks meeting, please consider the following topic: Warnings.

Verse 25 Expanded Bible Comments

Behold, I have told you before.
Question	Answer
What did our Lord mean by this?	You have been forewarned, therefore be prepared, do not be taken unawares.

Verse 26 Expanded Bible Comments

Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not.
Question	Answer
"If they shall say.." Who are "they?"	The false teachers.
Have any actually expected to see Jesus "in the desert?"	B157.
What is meant by "he is in the secret chambers?"	Secret societies, séances (calling upon spirits) and the like.

In verse 27 our Lord reaches their question regarding his parousia

[27] For as the bright shining cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the presence of the Son of man be. [28] For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together. [29] Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: [30] And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. [31] And he shall send his angels with a great trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

Verse 27 Expanded Bible Comments

For as the bright shining cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the presence of the Son of man be.
Question	Answer
The KJV says "as the lightening cometh out of the east, and shineth unto the west.." What is the Greek word here used for "lightening" and what is its meaning? Does this verse itself contain any hint as to the true meaning of the word?	Strong's G796 ἀστραπή astrapē as-trap-ay' From G797; lightning; by analogy glare: - lightning, bright shining. "Lightening" rarely begins in the east and shines to the west. But there is a "Bright Shining" that comes on a regular basis which shines from the east to the west, i.e., the Sun. In Luke 11:36 this word is translated "bright shining." – Try using "lightening" in that verse to see how inappropriate a translation it would be.
The verse continues (KJV): "so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." What is the Greek word here translated "coming" and how should it be translated?	Strong's G3952 παρουσία parousia par-oo-see'-ah From the present participle of G3918; a being near, that is, advent (often, return; specifically of Christ to punish Jerusalem, or finally the wicked); (by implication) physical aspect: - coming, presence. This word should always be translated as "presence." See Verse 3..
What difference does it make by correcting the words from "lightening" and "coming" to "bright shining" and "presence?"	Changing "lightening" to "bright shining" indicates that the Lord's second advent should not be thought of as a moment in time (as lightening) but as a period of time (as the sun traveling accross the sky.) Changing "coming" to "presence" tells us that the signs indicated are to tell us that the Lord is here, not on the way. "Behold, I stand at the door and knock.." – Rev. 3:20

Verse 28 Expanded Bible Comments

For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together.
Question	Answer
Who are "the eagles?"	Strong's G105 ἀετός aetos ah-et-os' From the same as G109; an eagle (from its wind like flight): - eagle. The following is from Wikipedia: "Old World vultures found in Africa, Asia, and Europe belong to the family Accipitridae, which also includes eagles, kites, buzzards, and hawks. Old World vultures find carcasses exclusively by sight." When in flight an eagle (vulture) is graceful, a thing of beauty. When on the ground it is often considered to be somewhat repulsive.
What is "the carcase?"	A carcase is a dead body.
Why are they "gathered together" at "the carcase?"	This is their food. They come together to eat, to feast.
What is the symbolic meaning of this verse?	The "eagles" or "vultures" picture the saints of God. They are looking for the body of Truth (based on the Ransom, our slain Lord Jesus) and all the associated doctrines that comprise "present truth," a.k.a., the Harvest Message. This body is already slain, i.e., the eagles did not kill it themselves. It was provided for them by the Lord God. When the world sees them "eating," studying and discussing these Truths, they do not find any beauty in them ( Isa. 53:2 )even as it found no beauty in our Lord. After eating they have renewed spiritual strength. Psa. 103:5

Verse 29 Expanded Bible Comments

Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:
Question	Answer
The tribulation of what days?	Of "those days," the 1260 years leading to "the time of the end" (Dan. 11:35,40; 12:1,) the time of Papal persecution, 539-1799 A.D. "The tribulation referred to is that of verse 9, and not that of verse 21." – R711
First Consider the Literal Fulfillments
Explain "the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light."	R711
Explain "the stars shall fall from heaven."	D588-590

Now Consider the Symbolic (and much more important) Fulfillments
Explain "the sun shall be darkened."	The sun is symbolic of the Gospel Light. The thought here is that the Gospel Message of Truth would be made dark. This has taken place throughout the Gospel Age, especially during the "Dark Ages." This darkness has been made greater by the acceptance within the nominal church of the teaching of Evolution. While we may not care about how the lower creation was made, when it comes to man the Bible is direct. Man was created in the image of God. (Gen. 1:26-27) His fall from perfection made necessary the Ransom. The teaching of Evolution denies the need for a Redeemer. – Very dark indeed.
What is meant by "the moon shall not give her light."	The Moon has no light of its own. Its light is a reflection of the Sun's light. So in symbolic language, the moon pictures the Light of the Mosaic Law. It is not the Gospel of Christ, but it has many references to that light. When viewed from Earth, the Sun and the Moon appear to be exactly the same size. According to astronomers this is "an incredible cosmic coincidence." We see how appropriate this is in God's symbology. The world looks into the sky (the heavens) and they see two religions. The Sun (Christianity) and the Moon (Judaism.) To them they are the same size, i.e., they are both just religions. In fact, to the world there is another religion, i.e., the Muslim religion. Its symbol is the Crescent Moon – but still the moon and as such it appears to many to be just like the Sun (Christianity) and the Moon (Judaism.)
Explain "the stars shall fall from heaven."	D590:5 The "stars" of heaven are the teachers within the Church, primarily "Rev. 21:14" This applies to the true Apostles and to the False. – D593; Rev. 2:2
Explain "the powers of heaven shall be shaken."	The "powers of heaven" refers to the powers that control Ecclesiastism. D594-D596

Verse 30 Expanded Bible Comments

And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
Question	Answer
When is "then?"	During the time of our Lord's Presence.
What is "the sign of the Son of Man" and where does it "appear?"	D597:4
What is meant by "then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn?"	"Tribes" is Strong's G5443. Strong's G5443 φυλή phulē foo-lay' From G5453 (compare G5444); an offshoot, that is, race or clan: - kindred, tribe. The Old Testament equivalent is: Strong's H4940 מִשְׁפָּחָה mishpâchâh mish-paw-khaw' From H8192 (compare H8198); a family, that is, circle of relatives; figuratively a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people: - family, kind (-red). We determine this by comparing a Greek translation of Gen. 12:3 ("in thee shall all families (H4940) of the earth be blessed.") The Greek word used is G5443. – In other words, this passage could easily read "then shall all the families of the earth mourn." This helps us to place our Lord's words in proper context. Those that "mourn" because of the "Son of man," are exactly the same as those covered by the Abrahamic Promise! (Gen. 12:3) This indicates exactly what other Bible texts say, i.e., Our Lord's second advent brings trouble before it brings peace.
If Jesus is "the Prince of Peace," why would "all the tribes (families) of the earth mourn?" Doesn't His return correspond with "the times of restitution of all things?" Acts 3:20-21	Yes, the return of Christ does indeed correspond to the beginning of the times of restitution. The tribes (families) of the earth are the very ones He comes to bless. The problem is that there is another ruler already in charge of earth's affairs. Satan does not give up his control without a fight. The struggle between the real super powers (Satan and Christ) is what creates the trouble in both the earth (society) and the nominal heavens (churchianity.) SM421:1; Zeph. 3:8-9
What is meant by "coming in the clouds of heaven?"	Clouds picture trouble. Heaven refers to the ecclesiastical heavens, the nominal church. This is indicating that the Lord's return will cause trouble in the nominal church systems.
Does the world of mankind actually "see" Jesus?	No more than they now see angels, but they will perceive Him. John 14:19
How do they "see" him coming "in power and great glory?"	By the eyes of their understanding. D600

With the election coming this Tuesday, how should we, the Lord's people, view it?
R5305 – Sep. 1913

Verse 31 Expanded Bible Comments

And he shall send his angels with a great trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
Question	Answer
Who is it that "sends his angels?"	"The Son of man."
Who are "his angels?"	The still earth-bound saints.
What is the "great trumpet?"	The antitypical Jubilee trumpet, the Kingdom message of Restitution. D601
What do these "angels" gather?	"His elect." – The saints.
From where do they "gather" them?	"From the four winds." From every direction, from all denominations. – R711
What is indicated by "from one end of heaven to the other?"	From one end of the nominal church to the other.

[32] Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, you know that summer is nigh: [33] So likewise you, when you shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. [34] Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. [35] Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. [36] But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. [37] But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the presence of the Son of man be. [38] For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, [39] And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the presence of the Son of man be. [40] Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. [41] Two grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. [42] Watch therefore: for you know not what hour your Lord doth come. [43] But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. [44] Therefore be you also ready: for in such an hour as you think not the Son of man cometh.

Verse 32 Expanded Bible Comments

Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is nigh:
Question	Answer
What is a parable?	Parable.
Who or what is pictured by "the fig tree?"	R5503.
"When his branch is yet tender." What does that mean?	In the literal sense, a branch is "tender" when it is young, (normally in the early spring.)
What is pictured by "Puts forth leaves?"	One of the indications that the branch is indeed young is that its leaves begin to show, but it is not yet time for fruit. The putting forth of leaves is a sign of life.
If "summer is nigh," what time of year is it?	D602 footnote – Winter

Verse 33 Expanded Bible Comments

So likewise you, when you shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.
Question	Answer
Why does Jesus use the term "so likewise ye?"	In like, or similar manner.
"So likewise you.." Who is "you?"	He was speaking to his disciples, the ones who asked him the three questions which he was in the process of answering.
What things are the "you" class to see?	"All these things." All the things he has been telling them about from verse 4 onward.
"Know that it is near." What is "it?"	The Kingdom of God, that which Jesus was always instructing his disciples about.
Why did Jesus add "even at the doors?"	This is a common phrase indicating it is just about to happen. We may consider his words to the church at Laodicea in Rev. 3:20 "Behold, I stand at the door and knock."

Verse 34 Expanded Bible Comments

Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
Question	Answer
What is meant by a "generation" in this context?	Strong's G1074 γενεά genea ghen-eh-ah' From (a presumed derivative of) G1085; a generation; by implication an age (the period or the persons): - age, generation, nation, time. Strong's G1085 γένος genos ghen'-os From G1096; “kin” (abstractly or concretely, literally or figuratively, individually or collectively): - born, country (-man), diversity, generation, kind (-red), nation, offspring, stock. It appears that this word may be used to indicate either time, age or generation (as in "kin.") Br. Russell gives several possible interpretations for this. We would add possibly another. 1 Peter 2:9 speaks of the true church as "a chosen generation [Strong's G1085]." The "generation" that sees these things coming to pass (especially relating to Israel (the fig tree,) may have reference to the living saints. In Br. Russell's day we saw the return of favor to natural Israel (1878,) the First Zionist Conference (1897,) and the Balfour Declaration (1917.) Later we have seen the re-birth of the state of Israel (1948,) the Jewish people taking the city of Jerusalem, including the "wailing wall" (1967,) the recognition by the United States that Jerusalem is the eternal captial of Israel (1995) and the opening of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem – May 14, 2018 (70th anniversary of the founding of the modern state of Israel.)
Was Jesus speaking of the generation of His day, or a future generation?	He was speaking of the generation which was to see "all these things be fulfilled," thus a generation that was in the future from when he spoke these things.
How can we be sure of our answer?	The generation living during our Lord's earthly ministry has long since "passed away" without seeing these things come to pass. Therefore He could not have had reference to that generation.

Verse 35 Expanded Bible Comments

Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Question	Answer
What is meant by "heaven" and "earth?"	The symbolic heaven and the symbolic earth.
How could these "pass away?"	Certainly the literal heavens and earth are not going to "pass away." Ecc. 1:4 – The (symbolic earth) and the (symbolic heaven) will indeed pass away.
"My words shall not pass away." Is Jesus saying that His words are more important than those of anyone else, even God?	Jesus said or did NOTHING that was not in complete harmony with the Father's will. John 14:10; John 8:26-28.

Verse 36 Expanded Bible Comments

But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
Question	Answer
To what day and hour does our Lord refer in this verse?	E36.
Did our Lord say that He would know the day and hour?	B18.
What about the Angels? Did any of them know the day and hour? If so, who?	"No, not the angels of heaven."
Did anyone know the day and hour? If so, who?	No! No one knew, not even Jesus! The ONLY one who knew was God. "My Father only." See 1 John 3:20

Verse 37 Expanded Bible Comments

But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the presence of the Son of man be.
Question	Answer
Where was Noah during "the days of Noah?"	Here on earth.
Where is Jesus during "the presence of the Son of man?"	Here on earth.

Verses 38-39 Expanded Bible Comments

For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, [39] And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the presence of the Son of man be.
Question	Answer
Just a quick reminder, where was Noah "in the days that were before the flood?"	He was here on earth.
Who are "they" in this verse?	The common people.
What was going on during the days before the flood?	The usual things: eating, drinking, marrying, etc.
For how long was this going on?	"Until the day that Noah entered into the ark." – Generally considered to be 120 years (Gen. 6:3)
"And knew not.." Knew not what?	That the world as they knew was about to perish.
How long did they "not know?"	"Until the flood came, and took them all away."
Was the comparison between the days of Noah and the coming of Jesus at the Second Advent?	Absolutely not!
What was the comparison?	Between the days of Noah and the days of the presence (not the coming) of Jesus at his second advent. In both cases the people did not know they were approaching the end until it was too late.
What is the significance of Noah entering the ark?	The faithful (Noah and his family) obeyed God's command, separated themselves from the world, and entered into the Ark, trusting in God's protection. Gen. 7:15-16. During Br. Russell's day the Lord's people obeyed God's command [Rev. 18:4], separated from the people of the land and came into the Lord's "ark" and were protected (as new creatures) from the plagues and from the doubts that came upon the people as the world they knew (Christendom, Christ's Kingdom, falsely so-called) came crashing down.
How does this translate to our day?	In order for us to have confidence in God we too must have obeyed God's command. We must be out of mystic Babylon and safely in the Ark of God's protection, being in covenant relationship with Him. Thus we pass through this Time of Trouble unscathed (as new creatures.)
Are the conditions (for both the world and for the saints) the same as in Br. Russell's day or different? Please explain.	The primary similaritiy is that the people, even after the destruction of the old order of Church-State union has been dashed, is that they still do not know that the trouble of our day is because the Lord has returned. The primary difference is that Christendom still fooled the people with the "Divine Right of Kings," "Divine authority of the clergy," and the "Responsibility of the people to be obedient to this arrangement as being of God." That order has been smashed. There are no more kings (with real power) remaining for the people to believe in "The Divine Right of Kings," and no one believes that Christ's Kingdom is set up in power and authority (as was still the case in Brother Russell's day.)

Verse 40 Expanded Bible Comments

Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
Question	Answer
What is "the field?"	"The field is the world." Matt. 13:38
Where are these "taken" to?	"To the food of present truth which he would then supply." R2302.
Why two?	Perhaps to show two classes. (1) Those diligently seeking the Lord and (2) those who claim to be but are not.

Verse 41 Expanded Bible Comments

Two grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
Question	Answer
What is a mill used for?	Grinding out grain to make bread (food.)
What is pictured by the "two grinding at the mill?"	D609.

Verse 42 Expanded Bible Comments

Watch therefore: for you know not what hour your Lord doth come.
Question	Answer
Why would the Lord's disciples need to "Watch?"	"For you know not what hour your Lord doth come."
What is implied by our Lord's explanation?	There is some reason that the Lord's people need to be aware of these signs of His presence. If you do not recognize these signs then you will be unaware of His return. If not aware of His return you will not be aware of the call to "come out of her my people" has gone forth.
Are we to continue to watch today in 2018?	Yes. Not just for signs indicating His presence, but also for signs indicating the furtherance of the progress of His in-coming kingdom.

Verse 43 Expanded Bible Comments

But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.
Question	Answer
Who is "the goodman of the house?"	The Adversary. Strong's G3617 οἰκοδεσπότης oikodespotēs oy-kod-es-pot'-ace From G3624 and G1203; the head of a family: - goodman (of the house), householder, master of the house.
What is "the house?"	Christendom as well as its institutions. Even though Christendom (Christ's kingdom falsely so-called) has been so broken up that no one anymore believes that Christ's Kingdom is now established and reigning on earth, yet the destruction of all its worldly institutions is not complete.
Who is "the thief?"	I Thes 5:2; II Peter 3:10; Rev 3:3; Rev. 16:15 Jesus at His Second Advent.
What would the "goodman" have done if he had known when the thief was coming, and what might have been the outcome?	He would have arranged his affairs in a different manner, providing greater protection for his usurped dominion. This would not have stopped the Kingdom from being set up, but probably not in the manner the Lord intended.

Verse 44 Expanded Bible Comments

Therefore be you also ready: for in such an hour as you think not the Son of man cometh.
Question	Answer
Who is "ye" or "you" in this verse?	The ones Jesus was speaking to, His disciples.
What might happen if the Lord's people are ready?	If not ready the Lord's people will not recognize His Presence, will not know to "come out of her my people," will not receive the "blessedness" which comes at the end of the 1335 days, i.e., they will not receive Present Truth.

[45] Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? [46] Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. [47] Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods. [48] But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; [49] And shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; [50] The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, [51] And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Verses 45-47 Expanded Bible Comments

Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? [46] Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. [47] Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.
Question	Answer
Is there a time indicator here in verse 45?	"Who then ..."
What does this suggest about the Lord's people at that time?	They whould be watching to see if the Lord raised up such an individual who was able to serve them "meat in due season."
"Whom his lord hath made.." Who is "his lord?"	Jesus.
Over what did he make him ["the faithful and wise servant"] ruler?	Over his [the Lord's] spiritual household (of faith.)
Does this mean that the Master of the household has relinquished his authority to the faithful and wise servant?	Absolutely NOT!
Do we have any old testament accounts of a similar situation?	Gen. 39:1-6; 39:20-23; 41:38-44
What is the Lord's purpose in raising up such an individual?	"To give them meat in due season."
Is "that servant" an individual or a class?	R1946:2-11

Verses 48-51 Expanded Bible Comments

But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming [better translated "arrival"]; [49] And shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; [50] The lord of that servant shall come [literally "be present"] in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, [51] And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Question

Answer

What actions or characteristics are listed that would help us to identify "that evil servant?"

Verse 48

εαν	G1437	if
δε	G1161	but, and
ειπη	G3004	say
ο	G3588	the
κακος	G2556	worthless, depraved, evil
δουλος	G1401	slave, servant
εκεινος	G1565	he
εν	G1722	in (time)
τη	G3588	the
καρδια	G2588	heart
αυτου	G846	his
χρονιζει	G5549	delay, tarry
μου	G1473	I, me, my
ο	G3588	the
κυριος	G2962	lord, master

"But and if the evil servant says in his heart, my Lord delays," – based on the above. Compare with:
"But if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord tarrieth;" – RVIC

1. "My lord delayeth (his arrival.)"
2. "Begin to smite his fellowservants."
3. "To eat and drink with the drunken."

Does his "evil" necessarily manifest itself outwardly?

"In his heart" is what our Lord indicates. These characteristics may, or may not manifest themselves outwardly.

Are these verses a warning to "the faithful and wise servant" or do they apply to someone else?

Likely Both.

Is there a time element associated with the "evil servant?"

Verse 50

ηξει	G2240	be present, arrive
ο	G3588	the
κυριος	G2962	lord
του	G3588	the
δουλου	G1401	slave
εκεινου	G1565	that one
εν	G1722	fixed position, in
ημερα	G2250	day, time
η	G3739	who, which
ου	G3756	not
προσδοκα	G4328	to watch
και	G2532	and
εν	G1722	fixed position, in
ωρα	G5610	hour
η	G3739	who, which
ου	G3756	not
γινωσκει	G1097	know

"The lord of that servant will be present in a day which he is not watching for him and in an hour which he does not know."

"the lord of that servant shall have come in a day when he expecteth not, and in an hour when he knoweth not" – RVIC

Clearly there is a time element. "The Lord will be present in a day..." This indicates the time is during the second presence of Christ, i.e., some time after 1874.

What would be indicated by "smite his fellowservants?"

To persecute the saints in some fashion. To ostracise them, to cause them to lose their reputation, influence for the truth, etc.

What would be indicated by "eat and drink with the drunken?"

To believe and teach and practice false doctrine.

What does it mean to "Appoint him his portion with the hypocrites?"

Who say one thing and do another. Those who are far more interested in receiving the praise of men than to be pleasing to God.
The great Time of Trouble is primarily for the hypocrites, thus it is their portion. In this verse we appear to have one who was serving the Lord's people but did not appreciate his position. As a result he is counted as being of the hypocrites and goes through the Time of Trouble.

What does it mean to "Cut him assunder?"

To separate him from something, in this case, (likely) from those written in the lamb's book of life. – Br. Russell applies it this way:
"cut him off [from being one of the servants privileged to hand meat in due season to the household]" B163
"cut him off [from being his servant]" D614
He will cut him assunder, [separate him from the real "body"] R1000.

What is meant by "There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth?"

Associated with "the perplexity and trouble coming upon Babylon." B163; R2303

If this is strictly a warning to "that faithful and wise servant," why so much detail?

This is part of why we think this is not exclusively a warning to "that servant." Additionally (without wishing to pass judgment – the Lord's role, not ours) there appears to have been an individual who fit the description here given.

Did such an individual matching the above description appear in the Bible Student Movement?

We suggest reading Wikipedia article.
One of the quotes from this article says: "He [Rutherford] also applied criticizing terms to those who had deserted Watch Tower ranks, calling them the 'evil servant'." – As one brother said: "It takes one to know one."

Chapter 23 Chapter 25