The Olivet Discourse (chapter 13 of Mark’s gospel) is sandwiched between Jesus’ controversies with the religious authorities in chapters 11-12 and the events surrounding his trial, crucifixion, death and resurrection in chapters 14-16. Chapter 13 focuses us on the end of redemptive history—it is all eschatological.
In fact, Jesus, tells us about a future time that he says is the worst time the world will ever know. It’s a time that will involve horrible evil, suffering, persecution, death, and judgement.

God’s purpose for the rebuilding of the temple was far greater than what the Jews could see. Their discouragement outweighed their hope in what good their labor could bring. God reminds His people to be strong and rest in His faithfulness and perfect plan that His people so desperately need.

We all need help along the way as we seek to follow Christ. Praise God that He has richly supplied all that we need for life and godliness. He has given us the Spirit of God to be our Helper, the Word of God to be our all-sufficient Authority, and the People of God to be our Faithful Friends in the journey together. There are many of God’s people that have gone before us, who now serve as faithful witnesses, cheering us on from ages past. We would be wise to learn from them, so we too might make patient progress in the faith … just as John Bunyan did before us.