NOTES for Mat 24:1-31
Over the centuries these lines have been understood in different ways. At first they were seen as a prophecy of the imminent end and the coming of Jesus, which would occur before the generation of witnesses to His life had passed away. Then, as bewilderment over an unfulfilled promise. Then, as obscure words about catastrophes. Then, as something like memento mori, a reminder that no one knows his hour. Now, for some, this is a guide to action in the event of the second coming; for others, material for calculating the "signs of the times" and the deadlines that are supposed to be fulfilled at any moment; for still others, a riddle no one knows how to approach.
One way or another, they reflect the disciples' faith that the story of Jesus did not end with His death. More than that, it did not end with His Resurrection. It will not end at all, as long as this world stands... and after its end.