Monthly Question Page
Q. Mark 13 mentions several events that seem to indicate the end times, but what does it mean when it says, “Thisgeneration shall not pass, till these things be done” (Mark 13:30)?
A. The term “generation” is used in different ways in the Bible. It is not always speaking of a father, son, grandson, etc., the way we usually think of it. In a much wider sense, it is what characterizes a class or nation of people as to their attitude, reaction, practices and so on.
In other words, relevant to this verse, the unbelieving Jews still exist today, and will exist until the prophetic events of Mark 13 take place. On another occasion the Lord said, “An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign” (Matthew 12:39). Today the Jews are still scattered among the Gentile nations, but they remain a separate people, kept for the fulfillment of God’s counsels and purposes.
So as to the expression “generation,” what was true of the Jewish nation in the days when the Lord was here in grace will continue until He comes back in power and glory. Then that nation and people will be brought to repentance and will own their guilt in rejecting their Messiah.
