Jesus predicts a coming tribulation. Has it already happened? Is it still to come? Regardless of your opinion on this passage, there is much to learn and apply. Jesus didn't want us to be afraid but trust in Him. He will prepare and protect His people.

In Mark 13 Jesus speaks of a coming judgment on the temple in Jerusalem. He prepares His followers then and now with 5 admonitions:

• Do not be deceived – false prophets will try to lead you astray

• Do not be alarmed – calamities will happen

• Do not let your guard down – be prepared for persecution

• Do not be anxious – God will give you the words to say

• Do not give up – Endure - God will get you to the end

Jesus gives a stern warning to not be taken in by hypocrites or to become one. A hypocrite is someone wearing a mask of Christianity but who isn't genuine. A pretender. A phony. Doing good works to be seen by others. Seeking glory for themselves and not for God. Greedy. Selfish. Manipulative. Dangerous. They will receive the greater condemnation!

Do Muslims and Christians worship the same God? The answer lies ultimately in what someone believes about Jesus. Is He merely a great man and prophet or is He the Son of God? Jesus said "Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him." John wrote: "Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son. No one who denies the Son has the Father. Whoever confesses the Son has the Father also." 1 John 2:22-23

In this passage, Jesus uses Psalm 110 to explain how the Messiah would be more than just a man. He could only be David's descendant and Lord if He is the God-Man. The Son of God became human so that He could save us.

The old hymn asks "What can wash away my sin?" The answer: "Nothing but the blood of Jesus!" What the Law couldn't do, God did. What the blood of bulls and goats couldn't do, God did through the blood of Jesus. We are cleansed and made perfect forever through faith in Jesus Christ!

The religious leaders try to trap Jesus again. This time the question is "What is the greatest commandment?" Jesus' answer: love the Lord your God with all you heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength! God is worthy of all of our love. He is worthy of all blessing and honor and glory and power forever and ever!

Is there life after death? If so, what is it like? A group of religious leaders in Jerusalem (Sadducees) try to trap Jesus by asking a difficult question about the resurrection. They didn't believe in life after death and thought this perplexing dilema proved they were right. How will Jesus answer them? What did He teach about the resurrection and life in heaven?

The religious leaders and political leaders try to trap Jesus by asking Him a question about taxes. "Should we pay taxes to Caesar or not?" If Jesus says "yes", the people will be angry with Him and stop following Him. If He says "no", He will be guilty of sedition and they can arrest Him. How will Jesus answer?