Definition: Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous passage from the Bible – Mark 13:30. It's a really important and somewhat mysterious verse. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about the end times and the coming of Jesus Christ. It’s saying that this generation (meaning our current generation) is incredibly significant and will be crucial to the completion of God's plan. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Mark 13”: This refers to a specific event in the Gospels, specifically about Jesus’s final journey on Earth. “30”: This is a significant number – it's a long time! It signifies a period of great change and transition. “Verily I say unto you”: This is a key phrase that adds weight to the message. "Verily" means truthfully, so it’s not just a casual statement; it’s a declaration of something important. Jesus is promising something profound. “That this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done”: This is the core of the verse. It's saying that this generation – the one who exists now – has a vital role to play in the completion of God’s plan and the arrival of Jesus Christ. "Shall not pass" means "cannot be missed," “till” means “until,” and “all these things be done” emphasizes that everything that is about to happen must occur. What does it mean practically? Jesus was telling his disciples (the people listening to him) that they were at a crucial point in history, where the world would be drastically changed. He wasn't saying it was going to be easy or pleasant. It’s about a time of great upheaval and transformation. The completion of God's plan is tied directly to this generation’s actions. Different Interpretations (Important Note - It's complex!): Literal Interpretation: Some people interpret the verse literally, suggesting that "this generation" refers to the Jewish people at the time Jesus was teaching. Symbolic Interpretation: Others see it as a metaphor for humanity itself – we are all part of a larger story where God’s plan is unfolding. In short, this verse warns us about the importance of our time and encourages us to live righteously, because it's connected to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s purpose. --- Resources for Further Exploration: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/4163](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/verses/4163) (This allows you to read the verse in different translations and contexts.) GotQuestions.org: [https://www.gotquestions.org/Mark-13-30.html](https://www.gotquestions.org/Mark-13-30.html) (Offers a comprehensive explanation of the verse's meaning.) Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Discuss a particular aspect of this verse in more detail?