Matthew 24:3 (KJV)

What does Matthew 24:3 mean?

Matthew 24:3 shows the disciples asking Jesus to explain the timing and signs of the events they expect. Their questions connect what Jesus has just said about the temple with his coming and the end of the world.

The conversation takes place on the Mount of Olives, where the disciples approach Jesus privately. Their phrase “these things” points back to Jesus’ prediction that the temple buildings would be thrown down in verse 2. Their question about a sign asks what would mark the coming events.

The Greek behind Matthew 24:3

• “coming” — παρουσία (parousia): This word can mean “presence” or “arrival.” Here the disciples ask about the sign associated with Jesus’ coming.
• “world” — αἰών (aiōn): This word can refer to an age or a period of time. The phrase translated “the end of the world” can carry the sense of the close of an age.
• “end” — συντέλεια (synteleia): This word carries the sense of a completion or conclusion. It pictures an age reaching its close.

Why Matthew 24:3 matters

• The questions set up Jesus’ response. He begins in verse 4 by warning the disciples not to be deceived, so his answer addresses how they should understand claims and events.
• The disciples ask about both timing and a sign. “When shall these things be?” seeks a time, while “what shall be the sign?” asks for something that will indicate what is coming.
• The disciples place several subjects together in their question: the temple’s destruction, Jesus’ coming, and the end of the world. Christians differ on how closely the events named in the question belong together.