|
There is probably no need to reject such literalism entirely. However, this type of interpretation alone seems to miss Jesus' persistent concern for saving the soul of the believer and His proportionate lack of emphasis on physical concerns. These instructions are likely to represent the spiritual equivalent of their outward meanings. As already pointed out, it seems improbable that the fall of Jerusalem in AD 70 has any connection with the abomination of desolation. However, it does appear that Jesus is indicating in these verses (16-18) that the abomination is an upheaval of great magnitude requiring His followers to take personal measures necessary to survive its destructive nature. (89:1) The measures described are practical steps that might be necessary in any literal conflict of war. This suggests that a war-like condition is probably being used as a metaphor for a broader, spiritual struggle the believer will face. As we have learned, there are many good reasons for believing that Muhammad and 'Ali were the 'two witnesses' and the 'two olive trees' referred to in Revelation ( 11:3-4), which the Book of Zechariah explains are 'the two anointed ones, who stand beside the Lord of the whole earth' (Zech.4:14). We know that many Christians accepted Islam and we have also learned that the abomination of desolation represents the corruption of Islam. But when this corruption of Islam occurs, what should the believers do? (89:2) The believers are to: ( 1 ) flee Judaea, which symbolizes the scene of the abomination of desolation (v. 15-16); (2) set themselves towards the spiritual heights of God's Word, the words of the Old Testament, the Gospel and, at that time, also the Qur'an (v. 16); (3) leave worldly considerations behind, which is to say, be detached from the things of this world (v. 17); and (4) not allow any needs to cause them to turn back, that is, be steadfast (v. 18). The overall thrust of the message is, therefore, very simple but vital - they should respond with urgency, take action, and realize that their souls are in danger if they do not. (89:3) Jesus' message can easily apply symbolically to the steps Muslims should take following the corrupting of Islam. The warning is that they should not save their physical lives but, rather, arise to save their spiritual lives. Christ had already taught: 'whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it' (Luke 9:24). Therefore Christ is not telling His followers: When you see the religion of God, the Temple, under siege, go and save your physical life from the hardships that will follow. But He says: Take action to follow God's teachings and serve God's cause, because otherwise you will be in danger of losing your spiritual life.
(89:4)
|