According to popular Jewish belief, the destruction of the temple is linked with the end of the world. Such thinking was prevalent during the time of Solomon's temple. The Israelites then felt they were secure because the temple was a symbol of God's divine and eternal protection. During the time of Jesus, the magnificant temple build by Herod was also seen as a symbol of God's protection. The people believed that only the end of the world could destroy it.

The teaching of Jesus about the destruction of the temple, therefore, prompts the disciples to ask, "When will this happen?" Jesus states that the destruction of the temple was not to be directly related to the end of the world. He warns them not to be misled by those who come in his name nor should they be terrified by wars, earthquakes, plagues and signs in the heavens. While these signs do show that the end is indeed coming, they do not indicate that the end is at hand. What is important, says Jesus is the manner in which his followers respond to such events.

As Christians, how do we view the many human conflicts, natural disasters, sicknesses and inequalities taking place in the world and around us? Does it make us want to run after "messiahs" or teachings and things which promises to make life better and easier for us? Or do we remain true to the teachings and promises of Christ even in the face of hardship and challenges?