Mark 13:14-23: I Have Told You All Things Beforehand

The Olivet Discourse (chapter 13 of Mark’s gospel) is sandwiched between Jesus’ controversies with the religious authorities in chapters 11-12 and the events surrounding his trial, crucifixion, death and resurrection in chapters 14-16. Chapter 13 focuses us on the end of redemptive history—it is all eschatological.
In fact, Jesus, tells us about a future time that he says is the worst time the world will ever know. It’s a time that will involve horrible evil, suffering, persecution, death, and judgement.