(The Lord speaking is red text)
And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
At that time many will be trapped into betraying and hating each other,
At that time many will fall away and will betray and hate one another,
And then shall many stumble, and shall deliver up one another, and shall hate one another.
And{G2532} then{G5119} shall many{G4183} be offended{G4624}, and{G2532} shall betray{G3860} one another{G240}, and{G2532} shall hate{G3404} one another{G240}.
1. Matthew 24:10 is part of the Olivet Discourse, where Jesus speaks to his disciples about the events leading up to the end of the age and his second coming. The historical context is set during the last week of Jesus' life, as he teaches in the temple and answers the disciples' questions regarding the destruction of the temple and the sign of his coming.
2. The verse itself reflects a theme of escalating interpersonal conflict and apostasy. The word "offended" in the original Greek (σκανδαλισθήσονται) can also be translated as "fall away" or "be caused to stumble," indicating a significant spiritual falling or betrayal of faith. This suggests a time of great trial when many will abandon their moral and religious convictions.
3. The betrayal and hatred mentioned in the verse point to a breakdown of trust and an increase in hostility among people, even to the point of members of the same community or family turning against each other. This reflects the intense pressures and tribulations that Jesus predicts will characterize the period before his return.
4. In the broader context of the chapter, these behaviors are part of a series of signs that Jesus warns will precede the end times, including false prophets, wars, rumors of wars, famines, and earthquakes. Matthew 24:10, therefore, contributes to a portrait of societal and moral upheaval that will challenge the faith of many and serve as a harbinger of the eschatological events to come.
5. The verse serves as a caution and a call to vigilance for Jesus' followers. It encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith despite persecution and the collapse of social norms, holding fast to their commitment to Christ in anticipation of his return.
In summary, Matthew 24:10, within the apocalyptic discourse of Jesus, foretells a time of deep spiritual crisis where many will fall away from their faith, leading to widespread betrayal and animosity. This verse is embedded in a larger narrative about the end times, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and faithfulness in the face of tribulation.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)