The behavior of the scribes in Luke 20:45-47 is indicative of the cancer within Israel, with only a small remnant, exemplified by the widow in Luke 21:1-4, pleasing to God. Jesus' apocalyptic discourse focuses on the impending judgment of Jerusalem and the temple and his eventual return. Although the discourse does not explicitly state that the destruction of the temple and Jerusalem is separate from Jesus' return, it conforms to the typical pattern of biblical prophecy in which the judgment of Jerusalem serves as a prototype for the final days and the return of Jesus.
The temple's stunning beauty is the talk of the town, but Jesus foretells its destruction. He cautions against being fooled by false Messiahs when asked about the timing and signs. Wars and natural disasters won't signal the end, as these are just part of the present era. Jesus also warns his disciples to be prepared for persecution, both in religious and secular contexts. They must be ready to testify on his behalf without worrying about their words. However, they should be prepared for suffering and rejection, even from their families. God will be their constant companion throughout it all.

The signs of wars, famines, plagues, earthquakes, and extraordinary events are not definitive indicators of the end of the temple, as stated in Luke 21:5–11. Thus, disciples must prepare to face suffering and hardship during such times. However, when armies encircle Jerusalem, it will signal the impending desolation of the city and its temple. In such circumstances, seeking refuge within the city is not advisable. Instead, those in Judea should head for the mountains, while those in the city should leave, and those in the countryside should not seek sanctuary within the city. These days will be incredibly challenging for pregnant, and nursing women, and the land of Israel will experience distress and God's wrath. Pagan nations will triumph and rule over Israel until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

In verse 25 of the text, the topic shifts to Jesus' arrival as the Son of Man, which is subsequently described in the following verses. The world will undergo a catastrophic transformation, marked by celestial occurrences affecting the sun, moon, and stars. The oceans will be in upheaval, causing alarm and terror among people who may faint from apprehension of the impending doom. When the Son of Man arrives on a cloud, wielding power and majesty, unbelievers will be frightened, while disciples will be glad and anticipate their imminent deliverance.

After Jesus foretells the judgment on Jerusalem and his second coming, he tells a parable about fig trees and all trees. When the fig tree produces leaves, it signals the arrival of summer. Likewise, when the disciples observe the events mentioned earlier, they will know that the kingdom of God is near. Jesus assures that everything prophesied will occur before this generation passes away. His words will endure even when the world changes. The disciples must remain watchful and prepared to remain faithful until the end. They must remain alert to avoid falling away and be able to face the Son of Man on the final day. Despite the danger to his own life, Jesus continues to teach in the temple during the day and stay on the Mount of Olives at night to avoid arrest. The people come to him each morning to hear his teachings.