Read Luke 21:5-24

JESUS TELLS ABOUT THE FUTURE
The Temple the disciples were admiring was not Solomon’s Temple. This Temple had been built by Ezra after the return from exile later in the sixth century B.C. It was desecrated by the Seleucides in the second century B.C., reconstructed by the Maccabees soon afterward, and enormously expanded by Herod the Great over a 46-year period. It was a beautiful, imposing structure with a significant history, but Jesus said it would be completely destroyed. This happened in A.D. 70 when the Roman Army burned Jerusalem.
Jesus was not saying that believers would be exempt from physical harm or death during a time of persecutions. Many of the disciples were martyred. Jesus was saying even though persecutions will arise, none of His followers will suffer spiritual or eternal loss. On earth, everyone will die, but believers in Jesus will be saved forever.
Jesus warned that in the coming persecutions His followers would be betrayed by their family members and friends. Christians of every age have had to face this possibility. It is reassuring to know that even when we feel completely abandoned, the Holy Spirit will stay with us. He will comfort us, protect us, and give us the words we need. This assurance can give the hope and courage to stand firm for Christ, no matter how difficult the situation.