Matthew 24:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 24:21
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.
Chapter Context
Matthew 24 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, sacrifice, mercy. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-51: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 24:21
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.
Analysis
For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be (ἔσται γὰρ τότε θλῖψις μεγάλη οἵα οὐ γέγονεν ἀπ' ἀρχῆς κόσμου ἕως τοῦ νῦν οὐδ' οὐ μὴ γένηται)—The phrase θλῖψις μεγάλη (thlipsis megalē, "great tribulation") is emphatic. The comparative οἵα ("such as") introduces unparalleled severity. The temporal markers stretch from ἀπ' ἀρχῆς κόσμου ("beginning of the world/cosmos") to ἕως τοῦ νῦν ("until now") and οὐ μὴ γένηται ("nor ever shall be")—absolute uniqueness in all history.
Debate exists: Does this describe AD 70 exclusively, or primarily AD 70 with typological connection to future eschatological tribulation (Revelation 7:14)? Preterists see exclusive AD 70 fulfillment. Futurists see dual reference. Daniel 12:1 uses similar language ("time of trouble, such as never was"). Either way, Jesus portrays Jerusalem's fall as the hinge-point of redemptive history—the definitive end of the old covenant order and validation of the new.
Historical Context
Josephus's account validates the uniqueness claim: 1.1 million Jews died (some estimates higher), 97,000 enslaved, the temple destroyed, the priesthood ended, the sacrificial system terminated, the nation scattered for 1,900 years. Crucifixions, famine, civil war, siege brutality, and final assault created suffering almost beyond description. For covenant Israel, this was indeed unparalleled catastrophe. No subsequent event—not the Holocaust, though horrific—ended the covenant order as AD 70 did.
Reflection
- How does recognizing AD 70's historical severity deepen appreciation for Jesus's prophetic accuracy?
- What does this "great tribulation" teach about the seriousness of rejecting Christ?
- If AD 70 fulfilled this prophecy, how should that affect interpretations of Revelation's "great tribulation"?
Cross-References
- Sin: Daniel 12:1, 1 Thessalonians 2:16
- Parallel theme: Matthew 24:29, Joel 1:2, 2:2, Malachi 4:1, Luke 21:24