Matthew 24:4

Matthew 24:4, in plain English

Before answering their questions about the future, Jesus gives them the most important warning first: don't let anyone deceive you. In uncertain times, deception is the biggest danger.

Why it's here

It's significant that Jesus starts here. He doesn't begin with exciting predictions but with a practical warning about staying grounded in truth.

Who's speaking

Jesus speaks with protective urgency, making sure His followers are prepared for what's ahead.

Where it sits in the story

Jesus knows that when the future feels uncertain, people become vulnerable to anyone who claims to have answers. His first priority is protecting His followers from being misled.

The scholarly reading

Jesus begins His eschatological discourse with a warning against deception: 'See to it that no one deceives (planēsē) you.' The verb planaō ('to lead astray') introduces the dominant theme of the discourse: the danger of being misled in turbulent times.

Language and setting

Before addressing any prophetic timeline, Jesus prioritizes spiritual discernment. The first imperative of eschatological preparedness is not curiosity about dates but resistance to deception.

Voice

Jesus begins His response to the disciples' questions, establishing discernment as the foundational concern.

Significance

Jesus' first word about the future isn't about signs or dates — it's a warning. The greatest danger in the last days isn't persecution but deception.

2“Do you see all these things?” He replied. “Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.”

3While Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately. “Tell us,” they said, “when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming and of the end of the age?”

4Jesus answered, “See to it that no one deceives you.

5For many will come in My name, claiming, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many.

6You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. These things must happen, but the end is still to come.

Read all of Matthew 24 — The disciples ask when the end will come. Jesus answers with wars, earthquakes, and a warning: stay awake, because no one knows the hour.