We believe that verses 4-35 describe the events leading up to the destruction of the temple in AD 70, with two brief comments regarding the Parousia in verses 27-28; 30-31. Verses 36-51 deal with the Parousia.

We believe that verses 4-35 describe the events leading up to the destruction of the temple in AD 70, with two brief comments regarding the Parousia in verses 27-28; 30-31. Verses 36-51 deal with the Parousia.

The hypocrisy Jesus denounces is not personal deceitfulness; it is a distorted perspective which makes the scribes and pharisees think they are doing the will of God when, in fact, they are missing the main point.

And he said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 22:34-40)

The invitation will be extended to Gentiles, but for Jews and Gentiles alike, acceptance into the Kingdom is conditioned upon one requirement (22:8-14).

Easter Sunday: The Resurrection

The consequences will be two-fold: the religious leaders will suffer divine judgment (v.41, 44) and the mediation of God's Kingdom will be taken away from these religious leaders and given to a people who will produce the fruit of righteous living before God (v. 41, 43).

By His authority, Jesus executed instant judgment upon the fig tree. Jesus assured the disciples that, when they were absolutely confident it was God's will, they, too, will be able to execute instant judgment.

Jesus' anger was about the location rather than the activity itself.

Honor and recognition will come to believers who follow Jesus' example of sacrificial service.