Mark 13:24

But in those days, after that tribulation: 'The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light;

Study Bible

But in those days
This phrase sets a specific time frame, indicating a future period distinct from the present. In the Greek, "ἐν ἐκείναις ταῖς ἡμέραις" (en ekeinais tais hēmerais) points to a prophetic time, often associated with eschatological events. Historically, this phrase is understood within the context of Jewish apocalyptic literature, which frequently uses "those days" to refer to the end times or a period of divine intervention. It serves as a transition from the preceding tribulation to the subsequent cosmic disturbances.

after that tribulation
The term "tribulation" (θλῖψις, thlipsis) refers to a time of great distress or suffering. In the context of Mark 13, it is often interpreted as the Great Tribulation, a period of intense hardship preceding the Second Coming of Christ. This aligns with the conservative Christian perspective that views this tribulation as a time of testing and purification for believers, as well as judgment upon the world. The phrase "after that tribulation" indicates a sequence, suggesting that the cosmic signs will follow this period of suffering.

The sun will be darkened
This imagery is rooted in Old Testament prophetic literature, such as Isaiah 13:10 and Joel 2:31, where cosmic disturbances symbolize divine judgment and the Day of the Lord. The Greek word for "darkened" (σκοτισθήσεται, skotisthēsetai) implies a loss of light or obscuration. In a historical and archaeological context, such language would resonate with ancient audiences familiar with eclipses and other natural phenomena, which were often interpreted as omens or signs from the divine realm. For conservative Christians, this darkening of the sun signifies a dramatic shift in the created order, heralding the imminent return of Christ.

and the moon will not give its light
This phrase complements the darkening of the sun, emphasizing a total cosmic upheaval. The Greek phrase "καὶ ἡ σελήνη οὐ δώσει τὸ φέγγος αὐτῆς" (kai hē selēnē ou dōsei to phengos autēs) suggests a cessation of the moon's reflective light. In biblical symbolism, the moon often represents stability and the natural order, and its failure to give light indicates a profound disruption. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, this lack of light from the moon underscores the severity of the end times, as the natural world responds to the divine plan unfolding. It serves as a call for believers to remain vigilant and faithful, trusting in God's ultimate sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this prophecy, Jesus is addressing His disciples about the end times and the signs that will precede His second coming.

2. Disciples
The immediate audience of Jesus' discourse, representing all believers who seek to understand the signs of the end times.

3. The Tribulation
A period of great suffering and distress that precedes the return of Christ, characterized by significant cosmic disturbances.

4. The Sun and Moon
Celestial bodies used symbolically to describe the dramatic changes and signs in the heavens that will occur during the end times.

5. End Times
The eschatological period leading up to the return of Christ, marked by significant upheaval and fulfillment of prophecy.

Teaching Points

Understanding Prophecy
Recognize the importance of prophecy in Scripture as a means to prepare believers for future events and to affirm God's sovereignty over history.

Signs of the Times
Be vigilant and discerning of the signs that Jesus described, understanding that they point to His imminent return and the fulfillment of God's plan.

Hope in Christ's Return
Despite the tribulation and cosmic disturbances, believers can find hope and assurance in the promise of Christ's return and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Spiritual Readiness
Live in a state of spiritual readiness, cultivating a life of faith, prayer, and obedience, knowing that the exact timing of these events is unknown.

Witnessing to Others
Use the urgency of the end times as motivation to share the Gospel with others, emphasizing the need for repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of cosmic disturbances in Mark 13:24 relate to the overall message of Jesus' Olivet Discourse?

2. In what ways do the prophecies in Isaiah and Joel enhance our understanding of the signs mentioned in Mark 13:24?

3. How can believers maintain hope and assurance during times of tribulation and uncertainty, as described in this passage?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are spiritually ready for the events described in Mark 13:24 and the return of Christ?

5. How can the urgency of the end times motivate us to share the Gospel with those around us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 13:10
and Joel 2:31
These Old Testament prophecies also speak of cosmic disturbances, such as the darkening of the sun and moon, as signs of God's judgment and the coming Day of the Lord.

Revelation 6:12-14
This passage describes similar cosmic events during the opening of the sixth seal, reinforcing the theme of divine intervention and judgment.

Matthew 24:29-31
Parallel account of Jesus' Olivet Discourse, providing additional context and details about the signs of the end times.