Read the Modern Pastor’s Version

As Jesus left the temple, one of his disciples pointed out the impressive stones and buildings. "Teacher," he said, "look at these great structures!"

Jesus replied, "Do you see these grand buildings? Every single stone will be torn down, leaving not one upon another."

The disciples asked him privately as he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, "Tell us, when will this happen, and what sign will indicate that it's all about to unfold?" Peter, James, John, and Andrew joined in, asking the same question.

"Be careful," Jesus warned. "Many will come in my name, claiming to be me, and they'll deceive many people." He cautioned them not to be alarmed by wars and rumors of wars, for such things must happen before the end comes.

Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes, famines, and troubles – these are just the beginning of sorrows. But Jesus warned his followers to be careful, because they would be handed over to councils and beaten in synagogues as a testimony against them. They would face rulers and kings because of him.

The gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations, he said. When they bring you before judgment, don't worry about what to say; instead, speak whatever is given to you at that moment. It's not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.

Brothers will betray one another, causing some to die, and children will turn against their parents, resulting in their deaths. You'll be hated by everyone because of my name, but whoever endures until the end will be saved.

When you see the abomination of desolation standing where it shouldn't be, those in Judea should flee to the mountains. Don't go back for your belongings – whether you're on a rooftop or in a field – just flee.

Woe to those who are pregnant and nursing during that time! Pray that your flight won't happen in winter, when conditions will be especially harsh.

In those days, there will be affliction unlike anything the world has ever seen before or will see again. The Lord had shortened those days because of his chosen people, whom he had elected. But if anyone says to you, "Look, here is the Christ," or "There he is," don't believe them.

False christs and false prophets will arise, performing signs and wonders in an attempt to deceive even God's chosen people. Be careful – I've told you about all these things beforehand.

After that time of great trouble, the sun will be obscured, and the moon won't give its light. The stars of heaven will fall, and the powers in heaven will be shaken.

Then they'll see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. He'll send his angels to gather those chosen by him from the farthest reaches of the earth to the farthest reaches of heaven.

Learn from the parable of the fig tree: when its branch is tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near. When you see these things happening, it's a sign that it's near – even at your doorstep.

This generation won't pass away until all these things are done. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never disappear.

But of that day and hour, no one knows – not even the angels in heaven or the Son, only the Father. Be vigilant and pray: for you don't know when the time will come.

The Son of Man is like a master who leaves his household and entrusts each servant with their specific responsibilities while instructing the gatekeeper to watch carefully. Watch, because you don't know when the master of the house will arrive – whether at evening, midnight, cockcrow, or morning. Lest, coming suddenly, he finds you sleeping.

Watch, for you don't know when the time is.