Matthew 24:20

But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day:

Matthew 24:20 (KJV)

Context

In Matthew 24, Jesus answers His disciples’ questions about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. He warns of coming tribulation and instructs His followers to pray that their flight from Judea will not occur in winter or on the Sabbath day. The immediate historical context points to the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in AD 70, when believers would need to flee the city.

Meaning

Jesus advises His followers to pray that their flight, or departure, should not take place in winter. In ancient Palestine, winters could be harsh and difficult for travel due to cold weather, rain, and other challenging conditions. Here, Jesus expresses concern for their physical well-being and safety during this time.

Jesus also encourages His disciples to pray that their flight does not happen on the Sabbath day. The Sabbath was a sacred day for the Jews, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, during which certain restrictions on work and travel were in place. Jesus likely mentions this because travel during the Sabbath could be more challenging due to those restrictions.

Biblical connections

This verse follows the preceding verse about the hardship of pregnant and nursing mothers in those days, and it precedes the declaration of great tribulation in verse 21.

Application

Some scholars interpret this verse more symbolically, suggesting that “flight” refers to a spiritual departure or a time of tribulation in the future. In this interpretation, “winter” and the “Sabbath” could symbolize difficult or restrictive conditions that believers may encounter. However, it is important to note that the verse can also be understood in its literal sense, referring to the physical challenges of traveling during winter or on the Sabbath.

Regardless of the specific interpretation, we can draw practical and spiritual lessons from this verse. On a practical level, it reminds us to consider the physical aspects of our circumstances and to pray for favourable conditions in challenging times. Spiritually, it encourages us to seek God’s guidance, protection, and wisdom during difficult seasons of our lives.

Reflection

This instruction to pray reflects the principle that God has control over the circumstances of events, and believers are encouraged to pray for favorable conditions in times of trouble. While the trial itself may be unavoidable, its circumstances can be entrusted to God in prayer.