Definition: For [in] those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation which God created unto this time, neither shall be.
Explanation:
Okay, let's break down that passage together. It’s a really significant and somewhat unsettling verse from the Bible, and it speaks about the coming of Christ’s Kingdom. Here’s what it means in simpler terms:
The Basic Idea:
This verse is saying that
something terrible
– something very difficult and painful – will happen during the time when Jesus returns to Earth. It's not just a minor hardship; it’s a period of intense suffering and disruption.
Let’s unpack it piece by piece:
“For [in] those days…”
: This refers to a specific period of time, likely around the end of the Old Testament era (around 70 AD) and leading up to Jesus's ministry. It’s a moment in history that God has planned for.
“…shall be affliction…”
: This is the core of the verse. “Affliction” means suffering, hardship, trouble, or difficulty. This isn’t just about minor problems; it suggests something deeply challenging.
“…such as was not from the beginning of the creation which God created unto this time…”
: This is a really important part. It’s comparing this affliction to a time
before
everything we know. It's saying that this suffering isn't a natural, inevitable part of the world; it's something
God deliberately set in motion
. “Created unto this time” means it’s happening at a specific point in history – our present moment.
So, what does this mean for us?
It’s about a period of turmoil:
It suggests that the world will be filled with conflict, division, and challenges.
It’s a test of faith:
The verse implies that we are facing a difficult time – perhaps politically, socially, or spiritually – and it's asking us to consider how we will respond.
It's connected to Christ’s return:
The most significant interpretation is that this suffering is
specifically
related to the coming of Jesus Christ. The verse suggests that God is preparing for a time when He will actively intervene in the world to bring about His plan.
Important Note:
This is a complex passage, and different interpretations exist within Christian theology. Some see it as a warning about the challenges ahead, while others interpret it as a promise of ultimate triumph and restoration.
Resources if you'd like to learn more:
Bible Gateway:
[https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/passage-throughout/Mark+13:19](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/passage-throughout/Mark+13:19) - This provides a detailed explanation and different translations.
Insights on Bible:
[https://insightsontablets.com/mark-13-19/](https://insightsontablets.com/mark-13-19/) - Offers a good overview of the verse's context and significance.
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To help me tailor my explanation further, could you tell me:
What are you hoping to understand about this verse? (e.g., its meaning, its connection to other biblical stories?)