Matthew 24:22

KJV

And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} except {G1508} those {G1565} days {G2250} should be shortened {G2856}, there {G3756} should {G302} no {G3956} flesh {G4561} be saved {G4982}: but {G1161} for {G1223} the elect's sake {G1588} those {G1565} days {G2250} shall be shortened {G2856}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Indeed, if the length of this time had not been limited, no one would survive; but for the sake of those who have been chosen, its length will be limited.

Berean Standard Bible

If those days had not been cut short, nobody would be saved. But for the sake of the elect, those days will be cut short.

American Standard Version

And except those days had been shortened, no flesh would have been saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 24:22, a pivotal verse within Jesus' Olivet Discourse, reveals a profound truth about the unprecedented suffering of the Great Tribulation: its duration will be divinely limited. Jesus declares that if this period of intense distress were not supernaturally shortened, no human life would survive. However, in an act of sovereign mercy and faithfulness, God will intervene and cut short these days specifically for the sake of His chosen people, the elect, ensuring their preservation and the ultimate fulfillment of His redemptive plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 24:22 is nestled within Jesus' extensive prophetic discourse, known as the [Olivet Discourse](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse"), delivered on the Mount of Olives. This discourse begins with the disciples' questions about the destruction of the Temple and the signs of Jesus' coming and the end of the age ([Matthew 24:1-3](/matthew/24-1-3 "Matthew 24:1-3 - The Disciples' Questions")). Prior to this verse, Jesus has detailed a series of escalating tribulations, including false Christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, and severe persecution of believers ([Matthew 24:4-14](/matthew/24-4-14 "Matthew 24:4-14 - Signs of the End")). He then specifically describes the "abomination of desolation" and the unparalleled intensity of the "Great Tribulation" in [Matthew 24:15-21](/matthew/24-15-21 "Matthew 24:15-21 - The Abomination of Desolation and Great Tribulation"). Verse 22 serves as a crucial addendum to this description of suffering, providing a divine limitation to the tribulation's severity and duration, thereby offering a glimmer of hope amidst the dire predictions. It sets the stage for further descriptions of the Son of Man's coming immediately after these days ([Matthew 24:29-31](/matthew/24-29-31 "Matthew 24:29-31 - The Coming of the Son of Man")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jesus' discourse draws upon and reinterprets Old Testament prophetic traditions concerning a future "day of the Lord" – a time of divine judgment and restoration. The concept of unprecedented suffering was not new to Jewish apocalyptic literature, which often depicted a period of intense tribulation preceding the Messiah's arrival and the establishment of God's kingdom. The audience, largely Jewish disciples, would have been familiar with prophecies of a great tribulation (e.g., [Daniel 12:1](/daniel/12-1 "Daniel 12:1 - Time of Trouble")). The destruction of Jerusalem and its Temple in AD 70 by the Roman Empire, though not the ultimate fulfillment, served as a significant historical type or partial fulfillment of some aspects of Jesus' prophecies, particularly the "abomination of desolation" and the immense suffering. The phrase "no flesh be saved" would resonate with the catastrophic nature of ancient warfare and sieges, where entire populations could be annihilated. The "elect" (Greek: _eklektos_) was a concept deeply rooted in Jewish theology, referring to Israel as God's chosen people, but in the New Testament, it expands to include all who are chosen by God through faith in Christ, both Jew and Gentile.

* **Key Themes:** Matthew 24:22 profoundly contributes to several key themes within the [Olivet Discourse](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse") and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it underscores the **severity of the Great Tribulation**, presenting it as a period of such extreme global chaos and destruction that, without divine intervention, it would lead to the complete annihilation of all human life. This highlights the unparalleled nature of this future event, surpassing any previous human suffering ([Matthew 24:21](/matthew/24-21 "Matthew 24:21 - Unprecedented Tribulation")). Secondly, the verse emphasizes **God's sovereign control over history and evil**. Even in the midst of the most intense suffering, God sets a boundary, demonstrating His ultimate authority over all events. The "shortening" of these days is a deliberate act of divine will, not a natural cessation. Thirdly, and most significantly, it reveals **God's unwavering faithfulness and preservation of the elect**. The explicit reason for this divine intervention is "for the elect's sake," showcasing God's special relationship with His chosen people and His commitment to protect them through the darkest times, ensuring their ultimate salvation and the fulfillment of His redemptive purposes. This theme of divine preservation echoes throughout scripture, from God's protection of Noah in the flood to His promise to never abandon His people ([Psalm 37:28](/psalm/37-28 "Psalm 37:28 - The Lord Loves Justice")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **shortened (Greek, _kolobóō'_):** This verb means "to dock, i.e., (figuratively) abridge." In the context of Matthew 24:22, it signifies a deliberate, decisive act of cutting short or limiting the duration of the tribulation days. It implies that these days would naturally extend to a point of complete destruction if not for this divine intervention. The term conveys a sense of a pre-determined, sovereign curtailment rather than a natural end.
* **flesh (Greek, _sárx'_):** Derived from a root meaning "stripped of skin," this word refers to "flesh" in its broadest sense, encompassing the physical body, human nature, and by extension, all human beings. When Jesus says "no flesh be saved," He means that no human life would survive the intensity and destructive power of the tribulation if its duration were not limited. It emphasizes the totality of humanity's peril.
* **elect (Greek, _eklektós'_):** This adjective means "select" or "chosen," and by implication, "favorite." It refers to those whom God has chosen for Himself, set apart for His purposes and salvation. In the New Testament, "the elect" encompasses all true believers in Christ, both from Israel and the Gentiles, who are united by faith. Their preservation is the explicit reason for God's merciful intervention, highlighting His covenant faithfulness and special care for His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And except those days should be shortened":** This opening clause establishes a critical condition. It posits a hypothetical scenario where, if the period of intense tribulation ("those days") were allowed to run its full, natural course without divine curtailment, a specific, catastrophic outcome would ensue. The use of "except" (Greek _ei mḗ_) introduces a strong conditional premise.
* **"there should no flesh be saved":** This is the dire consequence of the condition stated in the first clause. "No flesh" (Greek _pâs sárx_ - literally "all flesh" with a negative particle, meaning "not any flesh") emphasizes the absolute and universal destruction that would befall humanity. If the tribulation were not cut short, the suffering, devastation, and perhaps even the direct divine judgments would be so overwhelming that no human being would survive. This underscores the unparalleled severity of the period Jesus is describing.
* **"but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.":** This final clause introduces a powerful contrast ("but," Greek _dé_) and reveals the divine solution and its underlying motivation. Despite the potential for total annihilation, God, in His sovereignty, will actively "shorten" the duration of these days. The crucial reason for this merciful intervention is "for the elect's sake" (Greek _diá toùs eklektoús_), demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to His chosen people and His purpose to preserve them through this unparalleled time of trouble. This highlights God's faithfulness and His ultimate control over history.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 24:22 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. **Hyperbole** is evident in the phrase "there should no flesh be saved." While literally no one would survive if the tribulation were not shortened, this extreme statement emphasizes the unparalleled and utterly destructive nature of the period, conveying its severity in the strongest possible terms. It is not merely a difficult time, but one that threatens the very existence of humanity. The verse also utilizes **Contrast**, setting the potential for total annihilation against the reality of divine preservation. This stark juxtaposition highlights God's power and mercy. Furthermore, the explicit statement "for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened" functions as a **Divine Fiat** or declaration of God's sovereign will and purpose. It is a pronouncement of God's direct intervention, demonstrating His active control over the unfolding of eschatological events and His particular care for His chosen people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 24:22 is a profound testament to God's ultimate sovereignty over human history and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people. It reveals that even amidst the most cataclysmic events, God remains in control, setting boundaries on evil and suffering. The shortening of the days of tribulation is not a random occurrence but a deliberate act of divine mercy, demonstrating that God's plan for humanity's salvation, particularly for His elect, will ultimately prevail. This verse underscores the biblical theme of election, where God, in His sovereign grace, chooses a people for Himself, not based on their merit, but according to His eternal purpose. His commitment to preserve this chosen remnant ensures that His redemptive narrative will reach its intended climax, culminating in the return of Christ and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. The preservation of the elect is not merely about their physical survival but about the continuity of God's covenant and the fulfillment of His promises.

* [Isaiah 10:22-23](/isaiah/10-22-23 "Isaiah 10:22-23 - A Remnant Will Return")
* [Romans 9:27-28](/romans/9-27-28 "Romans 9:27-28 - God's Sovereignty and a Remnant")
* [Mark 13:20](/mark/13-20 "Mark 13:20 - The Shortened Days")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 24:22 offers both a sobering warning and immense comfort to believers living in any age, but especially as we consider the future. It reminds us that the world is heading towards a period of unprecedented distress, a reality that should stir us to spiritual vigilance and evangelistic urgency. However, its primary message is one of profound hope: God is sovereign, and His purposes for His people will prevail. Even when the world seems to be unraveling, God sets limits on suffering, and His faithfulness to His elect ensures their ultimate preservation. For those facing personal trials, this verse provides assurance that God limits the duration and intensity of our afflictions, always working for the good of those who love Him ([Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")). It calls us to cultivate a deep trust in God's control, knowing that even the darkest days are under His divine hand and will ultimately serve His redemptive plan. This truth encourages perseverance, prayer, and a steadfast faith in the midst of any storm, knowing that our God is faithful to His promises and will never abandon His own.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise that God will "shorten those days" provide comfort or challenge your perspective on global suffering and future events?**
* **What does this verse teach you about the character of God, particularly His mercy and faithfulness to His people?**
* **In what ways can the concept of "the elect" deepen your understanding of God's sovereign grace and His personal care for believers?**
* **How might this passage impact your prayers for the world and for fellow believers facing persecution or hardship today?**

### FAQ
**Who are "the elect" mentioned in Matthew 24:22?**

Answer: "The elect" (Greek _eklektós_) refers to God's chosen people. In the broader biblical context, this term initially applied to Israel as God's covenant nation. However, in the New Testament, particularly after Christ's first coming, it expands to encompass all who are chosen by God through faith in Jesus Christ, regardless of their ethnic background. This includes both Jewish and Gentile believers who have been called by God's grace and are united to Christ. God's election is not based on human merit but on His sovereign purpose and love, ensuring that a people will always be preserved for Him.

**What are "those days" that will be shortened?**

Answer: "Those days" refer to the period of intense tribulation that Jesus describes in detail throughout the [Olivet Discourse](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse"), specifically the "Great Tribulation" mentioned in [Matthew 24:21](/matthew/24-21 "Matthew 24:21 - The Great Tribulation"). This is a future, unparalleled time of global suffering, distress, and persecution, far exceeding any previous period in human history. Jesus indicates that its severity would be so extreme that if its duration were not supernaturally limited by God, no human being would survive.

**Has the shortening of "those days" already occurred, or is it a future event?**

Answer: While some aspects of Jesus' prophecies in the [Olivet Discourse](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse") had a partial fulfillment or type in the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, the "Great Tribulation" described in [Matthew 24:21](/matthew/24-21 "Matthew 24:21 - The Great Tribulation") and the subsequent shortening of those days are generally understood by most evangelical scholars to refer to a future, global, and unparalleled period preceding Christ's second coming. Jesus' language emphasizes an intensity and scope of suffering that goes beyond any historical event, making it a distinct eschatological period. The divine shortening is a specific act of God to preserve His elect during this unique time.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 24:22 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, who is not only the revealer of these end-time truths but also the very means by which "flesh" is saved and the elect are preserved. While the verse speaks of a future shortening of tribulation days, the deeper theological reality is that Christ's first coming and His atoning sacrifice on the cross were the decisive acts that secured salvation for humanity, preventing ultimate spiritual annihilation. He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), providing the path to eternal life that no amount of tribulation can ultimately negate. Furthermore, Jesus Himself is the great Shepherd who gathers and protects His elect. He declares, "[My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand](/john/10-27-29 "John 10:27-29 - Jesus Protects His Sheep")" (John 10:27-29). The shortening of the days of tribulation for the elect is a manifestation of Christ's ongoing intercession and protective care for His church ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Intercession")). Ultimately, the final "shortening" of evil's reign will occur at His glorious second coming, when He returns to establish His kingdom, vanquish all enemies, and gather His elect to Himself ([Revelation 1:7](/revelation/1-7 "Revelation 1:7 - The Coming of Christ")). Thus, Matthew 24:22 points to Christ as the sovereign Lord of history, the Savior of humanity, and the faithful Protector of His chosen ones, ensuring their ultimate salvation and His triumphant reign.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 13:20

And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.

2 Timothy 2:10

Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

Matthew 24:24

For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if [it were] possible, they shall deceive the very elect.

Matthew 24:31

And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

Romans 9:11

(For [the children] being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)

Matthew 22:14

For many are called, but few [are] chosen.

Isaiah 65:8

¶ Thus saith the LORD, As the new wine is found in the cluster, and [one] saith, Destroy it not; for a blessing [is] in it: so will I do for my servants' sakes, that I may not destroy them all.