Matthew 24:15–22 references the prophecy of the abomination of desolation.
Some warnings must not be ignored. The abomination of desolation is one of those warnings.
In this intense section of the Olivet Discourse, Jesus offers one of His most urgent prophetic alerts. Referencing Daniel, He prepares His followers for a moment of great danger marked by the abomination of desolation.
Matthew 24:15–22 (NASB 2020)
15 “Therefore, when you see the abomination of desolation which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), 16 then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains. 17 Whoever is on the housetop must not go down to get things out of his house. 18 And whoever is in the field must not turn back to get his cloak. 19 But woe to those women who are pregnant, and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 20 Moreover, pray that when you flee, it will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath. 21 For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will again. 22 And if those days had not been cut short, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short.”
Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
- His disciples, interpreting Daniel’s prophecy with immediacy concerning the abomination of desolation
- Future Jewish believers, especially during Rome’s destruction and end-time tribulation when they witness the abomination of desolation
- Us in 2025, reminding us of spiritual alertness, preparedness, and urgency
What Happened?
- Jesus refers to Daniel’s prophecy about desecration in the temple, highlighting the abomination of desolation
- He warns of a future moment when desecration will mark the time to flee immediately
- He highlights the need for discernment, swiftness, and prayerful readiness
The Mood: Urgent, Alarming, Protective
- Jesus urgently prepares His followers for sudden danger
- There’s a sense of prophetic weight and emotional intensity
The Principle: Urgency + Obedience = Protection
- Jesus offers clarity in chaos
- Delay can be deadly, but obedience protects
- When God says move, don’t hesitate
Audience Response (Then)
- The disciples likely felt confused but sobered
- Jewish Christians during the destruction of the temple took this seriously and fled
- History records that their obedience saved lives
What This Means for Us in 2025
- We must be spiritually discerning and alert in a world filled with deception
- God gives warnings not to stir fear but to inspire readiness
- Don’t ignore the signs; learn to hear God’s voice in the urgency of acknowledging the abomination of desolation
Ask yourself:
- Am I spiritually awake or distracted?
- Do I act quickly when God speaks?
- Am I discipling others to be ready?
Action Steps for Today
- Study prophecy carefully. Jesus told us to understand.
- Stay ready. Spiritual alertness isn’t seasonal.
- Move in obedience. Don’t delay when prompted.
- Pray for wisdom. Know how to navigate hard times.
- Help others prepare. Multiply discernment, not fear.
Final Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your clear warnings and deep compassion. When You speak, help me act. Keep me spiritually awake and ready, and help me disciple others to walk in wisdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Spiritual alertness is love in action when the world grows dark.
