What Did Jesus Mean by His Intimidating Message about 'Wars and Rumors of Wars'?
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Two thousand years ago, Jesus spoke about wars and rumors of wars coming at the end of the age.
Violence dominates the headlines and arguments between political and religious positions today. Many experts wonder whether current events could lead to another world war.
Are these the wars and rumors of wars that Jesus prophesied?
Where Does Jesus Talk about Wars and Rumors of Wars?
Jesus speaks about “wars and rumors of wars” in the Olivet Discourse—a significant teaching recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The name comes from the Mount of Olives, where Jesus delivered this prophetic message about the future.
Part of the discourse appears in Matthew 24:6-7, Jesus says, “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom . . . ” Similarly, Mark 13:7 and Luke 21:9 convey a parallel message about wars and tumultuous times.
These wars and rumors of wars are only one of the Olivet Discourse’s themes. Jesus also speaks about a future event known as the “abomination of desolation,” a sacrilegious act within the temple prophesied in Daniel 12, signaling a time of tribulation.
Jesus encourages his followers to endure faithfully despite challenges. He warns against false prophets and messiahs, emphasizing the need for discernment. They must endure because he’s returning.
Jesus discusses his second coming, emphasizing the timing cannot be predicted. He uses vivid imagery of lightning across the sky and more to convey the dramatic nature of these events.
Following this encouragement and revelation, Jesus gives parables illustrating these ideas. For example, the fig tree parable highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of the times.
So, the Olivet Discourse is a comprehensive description of future events—including the temple’s destruction in AD 70 and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan at the end of the age.
So, where does the reference to “wars and rumors of wars” fit into this discussion?
Could “Wars and Rumors of Wars” Be about the Sacking of Jerusalem?
One interpretation emphasizes history and suggests that “wars and rumors of wars” refers to the sacking of Jerusalem in 70 AD. Several arguments support this perspective.
The Olivet Discourse in Matthew is Jesus’s response to the disciples’ questions about the temple’s destruction and the sign of his return (Matthew 24:3). Just a few years later, the First Jewish-Roman War (66-73 AD) occurred. In Jesus’ time, tensions between the Jewish population and the Roman Empire were already escalating.
The First Jewish-Roman War saw various military conflicts, uprisings, and revolts. Jesus’ mention of “nation rising against nation, and kingdom against kingdom” fits the war’s description. The Jewish rebellion against Roman rule led to clashes between different factions within Judea and conflicts with the Roman forces.
Jesus’ words about the temple being destroyed lead into his speech about “wars and rumors of wars.” This sign was fulfilled in 70 AD: the Romans tore the temple down. Today, only the Wailing Wall remains in Jerusalem.
In addition, the “abomination of desolation” could be interpreted as what happened when Titus’ Roman forces destroyed Jerusalem. They desecrated the temple by placing pagan symbols on its walls and worshipping their standards within the holy places.
In the Olivet Discourse, Jesus advises those in Judea to flee to the mountains when they see the abomination of desolation. Years later, some Jewish Christians escaped the siege of Jerusalem by finding refuge in the mountains and other places.
Finally, Jesus emphasizes the immediacy of some events he mentions: “this generation will not pass away until all these things take place.” Jerusalem’s sacking in 70 AD happened roughly 40 years after Jesus’ death. In many biblical passages, 40 years is considered a generation.
However, this interpretation of events and “wars and rumors of wars” isn’t the only perspective.
Could “Wars and Rumors of Wars” Be about the End Times?
Jesus’ words in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21 are eschatological—about future events. Many have noted similar themes in Revelation, which would make the “wars and rumors of wars” part of Revelation’s broad apocalyptic narrative. Therefore, many theologians believe “wars and rumors of wars” refers to later end times, the last days.
There are several reasons behind this interpretation.
First, the full context passage references end times, such as Christ’s physical return. Therefore, “wars and rumors of wars” could refer to much later events than Jerusalem’s sacking. “Nation rising against nation, and kingdom against kingdom” suggests global events, a period of heightened international tension. Our history has seen what world wars look like—wars far bigger than Judea experienced in Jesus’ day.
Second, “birth pains” in Matthew 24:8 implies these signs will come with greater frequency and intensity as the end times draw closer. Wars and conflicts are expected to become more prevalent and intense as the end draws near—not simply one event.
Finally, the Olivet Discourse includes multiple signs and events—such as the abomination of desolation, the great tribulation, and the Son of Man’s coming. These collectively point to Christ’s climactic return, the end of this age. Jerusalem’s sacking in 70 AD may align with a few signs, but not all. These signs may still occur in another way.
What Should We Remember about Wars and Rumors of Wars?
First, we should resist a false dichotomy of these two perspectives. Even though these two interpretations seem to conflict, that need not be so. Eschatological texts are rarely about one thing. There could be a creative “both-and” situation yet to come we haven’t yet seen.
Scholars had discussed and studied Messianic passages for centuries before Jesus was born in Bethlehem, and none predicted it would happen as it did. No one. Christ fulfilled all the Old Testament prophecies in creative ways. Considering how Jesus spoke and our inability to know the specific time “wars and rumors of wars” will happen, we remember one thing: we should hold loosely to our interpretations.
This doesn’t mean we can’t take important lessons from the Olivet Discourse. Three Gospel writers found it central for all disciples to know. What can we learn?
- Vigilance and Preparedness. Jesus repeatedly urges His disciples to be vigilant and prepared for future uncertainties. The overarching message is to be ready regardless of when or how these tumultuous events unfold. Due to the unpredictable nature of his return, we are encouraged to cultivate a watchful and spiritually prepared mindset, understanding that unexpected challenges and tribulations may arise. This helps us in everyday life, not only the end times.
- Trust in God’s Sovereignty. Amidst the chaos described in the discourse, Jesus underscores the sovereignty of God. Regardless of the circumstances, believers are reminded to trust God’s overarching control. Whether historical or eschatological, the unfolding events are ultimately under God’s guidance and purpose.
- Perseverance in Faith. The appeal to endure and persevere in faith echoes throughout the Olivet Discourse. Regardless of the challenges—wars, persecutions, or other trials—Jesus calls His disciples to remain steadfast and committed to Him. This enduring faith is crucial in navigating the uncertainties of life, whether we are in the end times or not.
- Discernment of Signs. Jesus encourages discernment of understanding the signs of the times. Whether contemplating geopolitics or spiritual truths, we are called to be discerning and wise. This discernment comes from God. In other words, the indwelling Holy Spirit reveals what we need to know and uncovers hidden things within our lives and global events. Trust his leading and insight.
- Focus on the Eternal Kingdom. While addressing the earthly challenges and conflicts, Jesus consistently directs attention to the eternal kingdom. Worldly events are temporary, and their passing nature underscores how we must prioritize God’s values and principles. Regardless of the temporal upheavals, our ultimate citizenship is in the kingdom of heaven.
- Compassion and Mission. While discussing wars and tumultuous times, Jesus emphasizes compassion and a commitment to the Great Commission. Regardless of the external circumstances, we are called to love, compassion, and sharing the message of salvation. Revelation also shows this, pointing us to worship Christ amid upheaval and darkness. The gospel’s transformative power remains a constant amid changing times.
- Hope amid Turmoil. Jesus’ teachings in the Olivet Discourse convey hope even during turmoil. Whether facing wars or contemplating the end times, we are reassured that God’s redemptive plan continues. We must have hope to endure. Our hope is anchored in the assurance of God’s faithfulness and the ultimate victory of His kingdom. There is an end. It is a good end for those who love him and are called according to his purpose.
How Do We Prepare for “Wars and Rumors of Wars”?
The big takeaway from Jesus’ teachings on “wars and rumors of wars” is a holistic approach to life. The holistic approach involves:
- Preparedness.
- Trust in God.
- Perseverance in faith.
- Discernment.
- Focus on the eternal kingdom.
- Unwavering hope in God’s redemptive plan.
These principles help us navigate a changing world’s complexities with a resilient, Christ-centered perspective.
Peace.
Photo Credit: © Getty Images/vicnt
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