Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled?

MARK 13:4KJV
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Mark 13:4 (KJV)

What does Mark 13:4 mean?

Mark 13:4 records the disciples asking Jesus two questions: when the things He predicted would happen, and what sign would show that these events were about to be completed. The disciples want to know both the timing and the warning signals for the fulfillment of Jesus’ earlier statements about the destruction of the temple.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking privately with a few of His closest followers after He has just predicted that the temple will be destroyed. The disciples are confused and concerned, so they ask for more details. Their question shows they are looking for specific clues or signs (not just general advice) that will help them recognize when these dramatic events will take place.

The Greek behind Mark 13:4

  • σημεῖον (sēmeion, “sign”): This word means a signal, mark, or indication. The disciples are not just asking for a vague prediction, but for a clear, recognizable event that will let them know when Jesus’ words are coming true.
  • συντελεῖσθαι (suntelesthai, “fulfilled”): This verb means to be completed or brought to an end. The disciples are interested in the moment when everything Jesus described will reach its conclusion, not just when it begins.

Why Mark 13:4 matters

  • Mark 13:4 shows that the disciples are focused on understanding the future and want practical information, not just spiritual encouragement.
  • This verse sets up the rest of Mark 13, where Jesus responds with a detailed teaching about signs, timing, and the nature of coming events.
  • The disciples’ question helps clarify that Jesus’ predictions were understood as real, historical events, not just symbolic language.

Where else these words appear

“fulfilled” Greek G4931 · used in 7 verses

  • Matthew 7:28 And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
  • Luke 4:13 And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season.
  • Romans 9:28 For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth.

“when” Greek G4219 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 17:17 Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me.
  • Matthew 25:44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?
  • Luke 12:36 And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.

“sign” Greek G4592 · used in 69 verses

  • Matthew 12:38 Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee.
  • Luke 23:8 And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him.
  • Acts 4:30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.

“shall” Greek G3195 · used in 107 verses

  • Matthew 2:13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
  • Acts 11:28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.
  • Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.