King James Version

What Does Matthew 24:15 Mean?

Matthew 24:15 in the King James Version says “When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (wh... — study this verse from Matthew chapter 24 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)

Matthew 24:15 · KJV


Context

13

But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

14

And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

15

When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)

16

Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:

17

Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house:


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This verse originates in Jesus' ministry during a pivotal period. The first-century Jewish context included Roman occupation, Pharisaic religious authority, and messianic expectations. Understanding these factors illuminates the passage's significance.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage challenge your understanding of God's character?
  2. What practical application does this truth have in your daily walk?
  3. How should this verse shape your priorities and decisions?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 20 words
Ὅταν1 of 20

When

G3752

whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as

οὖν2 of 20

ye therefore

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

ἴδητε3 of 20

shall see

G1492

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

τὸ4 of 20
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

βδέλυγμα5 of 20

the abomination

G946

a detestation, i.e., (specially) idolatry

τῆς6 of 20
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐρημώσεως7 of 20

of desolation

G2050

despoliation

τὸ8 of 20
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ῥηθὲν9 of 20

spoken of

G4483

to utter, i.e., speak or say

διὰ10 of 20

by

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

Δανιὴλ11 of 20

Daniel

G1158

daniel, an israelite

τοῦ12 of 20
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

προφήτου13 of 20

the prophet

G4396

a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet

ἑστὸς14 of 20

stand

G2476

to stand (transitively or intransitively), used in various applications (literally or figuratively)

ἐν15 of 20

in

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τόπῳ16 of 20

place

G5117

a spot (general in space, but limited by occupancy; whereas g5561 is a large but participle locality), i.e., location (as a position, home, tract, etc

ἁγίῳ17 of 20

the holy

G40

sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)

18 of 20
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀναγινώσκων19 of 20

(whoso readeth

G314

to know again, i.e., (by extension) to read

νοείτω20 of 20

let him understand

G3539

to exercise the mind (observe), i.e., (figuratively) to comprehend, heed


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 24:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 24:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Places in This Verse

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