This is a simplified version of the Bible story found in Luke 21:5-37, written for children to understand. For the original version, please refer to the Bible passage.
Once, Jesus and his disciples were at the temple, and they saw all the beautiful stones and gifts that were there. But then Jesus told them that the temple would be destroyed. He said that not one stone would be left on top of another.
The disciples were curious and a little scared. “But when will this happen, Teacher?” they asked. “And how will we know when it’s going to happen?”
Jesus warned them not to be fooled by people who claimed to be Him or said that the end was coming soon. “Many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am He!’ and, ‘The time is at hand!'” He said. “But do not go after them.”
He also told them that there would be wars and natural disasters, and that His followers would be persecuted. “You will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake,” He said. “This will be your opportunity to bear witness.”
The disciples were worried. “But what should we say when they ask us about You?” they asked.
“Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer,” Jesus replied. “For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.”
He also warned them that when they saw Jerusalem surrounded by armies, they should leave the city right away. This would be a very dangerous time, and they should not stay around. “Let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains,” He said, “and let not those who are out in the country enter it.”
Jesus said that He would come back one day, and it would be a time of great power and glory. “Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory,” He said.
The disciples were excited. “When will this happen, Teacher?” they asked.
But Jesus told them that no one knows when that day will be, not even He Himself. “But be on guard,” He said. “Stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Every day, Jesus would teach the people who came to the temple to listen to Him. But at night, He would leave the city and go to stay on a mount called Olivet.
Biblical Lessons
- Jesus’ words are true and will never pass away, so we can trust and rely on them.
- Even in difficult times, Jesus is with us and will give us the strength we need to endure and overcome.
- We should always be prepared and watchful, as we never know when Jesus will return or when we may face trials and persecution.
- It is important to not be deceived by false teachers and prophets, but to test everything against the truth of God’s word.
- Our ultimate hope is in the coming of the Son of Man and the establishment of His kingdom, which will bring justice, peace, and everlasting life.