Matthew 24:20

Afrikaans 2020 (Die Bybel 2020-vertaling)

Bid dat julle nie in die winter en op die Sabbat sal moet vlug nie;

What Does This Mean?

This verse is Jesus speaking to his disciples about the timing of their flight during times of distress. He advises them to pray that they do not have to flee in winter or on the Sabbath, as these times would make travel especially difficult.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing a game and you need to run away quickly. Jesus is saying it's best if you don't have to run when it’s cold outside (winter) or when everyone else is resting (Sabbath). It makes the game harder, right? So he tells his friends to ask God for help so they can play better.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this Gospel around AD 80-90, primarily for a Jewish-Christian audience in Syria. The cultural setting includes a strong adherence to Sabbath laws and the challenges of winter travel, which would have made escape difficult during times of persecution or conflict.

Living It Out Today

In modern life, imagine if you need to quickly leave your home due to an emergency, like a fire. You wouldn’t want this to happen in bad weather or when stores are closed because it makes escaping harder and more dangerous.

Topics

• prayer
• persecution
• flight
• Sabbath
• winter
• advice

Related Verses

• Exodus 20:8-11
• Luke 21:20-24
• Mark 13:14-19
• Jeremiah 52:7-8
• Revelation 6:15-17

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Jesus mention winter?

Winter was a difficult time to travel due to harsh conditions, which could make escape or fleeing more dangerous and challenging.

How does the Sabbath relate to this verse?

The Sabbath was a day of rest when travel was prohibited according to Jewish law, so attempting to flee on a Sabbath would be against religious customs and laws.

What kind of situations might require flight?

In historical contexts, it could refer to times of persecution or war. Today, it might include fleeing from natural disasters or political unrest.

How can one apply this verse in daily life?

It encourages relying on prayer for guidance and protection during difficult times when immediate action is needed.