Matthew 24:16

¹⁵So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination of desolation,’ described by the prophet Daniel (let the reader understand),¹⁶then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.¹⁷Let no one on the housetop come down to retrieve anything from his house.

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Summary

In this verse, Jesus warns His followers in Judea to flee to the mountains when they see the 'abomination of desolation,' a sign of impending destruction. This prophecy was fulfilled in AD 70 when the Roman army destroyed Jerusalem and the temple. The urgency of Jesus' instruction underscores the need for swift action and reliance on divine guidance during times of crisis. It serves as a reminder to be vigilant, discerning the signs of the times and trusting in God's protection amidst tribulations. Ultimately, this verse highlights the importance of spiritual readiness and obedience to Jesus' teachings.

Commentary

John Gill

John Gill Bible Commentary

Then let them which be in Judea,.... When this signal is given, let it be taken notice of and observed; let them that are in the city of Jerusalem, depart out of it; or who are in any other parts of Judea, in any of the towns, or cities thereof; let them not betake themselves to Jerusalem, imagining they may be safe there, in so strong and fortified a place, but let them flee elsewhere; see Luk 21:21 and accordingly it is observed, that many did flee about this time; and it is remarked by several interpreters, and which Josephus (a) takes notice of with surprise, that Cestius Gallus having advanced with his army to Jerusalem, and besieged it, on a sudden, without any cause, raised the siege, and withdrew his army, when the city might have been easily taken; by which means a signal was made; and an opportunity given to the Christians, to make their escape: which they accordingly did, and went over Jordan, as Eusebius says (b), to a place called Pella; so that when Titus came a few mouths after, there was not a Christian in the city, but they had fled as they are here bidden to flee into the mountains; or any places of shelter and refuge: these are mentioned particularly, because they are usually such; and design either the mountains in Judea, or in the adjacent countries. The Syriac and Persic versions read in the singular number, "into the mountain"; and it is reported that many of them did fly, particularly to Mount Libanus (c). (a) De Bello Jud. l. 2. c. 19. sect. 7. (b) Eccl. Hist. l. 3. c. 5. p. 75. (c) Joseph. ib.