Jesus answered and said to them, “Be careful that no one leads you astray,
The Lord’s first word is not a timetable, but a warning. When thinking about the last times and great trials, the first danger for a person is not only curiosity, but deception. Christ knew that in times of disasters, wars, and religious upheavals, many would try to rule over people through fear. The words “Be on guard” call for spiritual sobriety, knowledge of Holy Scripture, and a firm attachment to the word of Christ. The believer must not be led by every voice, every report, or every self-appointed promise, but must remain obedient to the voice of the true Shepherd.