And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple.

MATTHEW 24:1KJV
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Matthew 24:1 (KJV)

What does Matthew 24:1 mean?

Matthew 24:1 describes Jesus leaving the temple in Jerusalem, with his disciples approaching him to point out the temple buildings. This sets the scene for a conversation between Jesus and his disciples about the significance and future of the temple.

In this verse, Jesus is physically departing from the temple complex after teaching there. His disciples, likely impressed by the grandeur of the temple structures, draw his attention to them. This moment leads directly into Jesus’ teaching about the future destruction of the temple and the signs of the end times, which follows in the rest of the chapter.

The Greek behind Matthew 24:1

  • The word for "temple" is ναός (naos, transliterated as "naos"), which refers specifically to the temple building itself, not just the general temple area. This highlights the focus on the physical structures that were central to Jewish worship.
  • The Greek word for "buildings" is οἰκοδομή (oikodomē, transliterated as "oikodomē"), which means constructed buildings or edifices. The disciples are not just pointing out the main sanctuary but the entire impressive complex.
  • The verb "to show" is ἐπιδείκνυμι (epideiknymi, transliterated as "epideiknymi"), which means to display or point out something with emphasis. The disciples are intentionally drawing Jesus’ attention to the magnificence of the temple buildings.

Why Matthew 24:1 matters

  • This verse marks a turning point in Matthew’s Gospel, moving from Jesus’ public ministry in the temple to his private teaching about future events.
  • The disciples’ focus on the temple’s physical beauty contrasts with Jesus’ coming prediction of its destruction, highlighting a shift from outward appearances to deeper spiritual realities.
  • Understanding this setting helps clarify the seriousness and shock of Jesus’ following prophecy, as the temple was the center of Jewish religious life and identity.

Where else these words appear

“shew” Greek G1925 · used in 9 verses

  • Matthew 16:1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven.
  • Luke 17:14 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
  • Acts 9:39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

“buildings” Greek G3619 · used in 18 verses

  • Mark 13:1 And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!
  • 1 Corinthians 14:3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
  • 2 Corinthians 12:19 Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.

“temple” Greek G2411 · used in 67 verses

  • Matthew 4:5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,
  • Luke 19:47 And he taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests and the scribes and the chief of the people sought to destroy him,
  • Acts 3:3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.

“came” Greek G4334 · used in 85 verses

  • Matthew 4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
  • Matthew 21:14 And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them.
  • Luke 9:12 And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals: for we are here in a desert place.