Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 24:6

"And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that ye be not troubled: for [these things] must needs come to pass; but the end is not yet." — Matthew 24:6 (ASV)

And you shall hear of wars, etc. It is recorded in the history of Rome that the most violent agitations prevailed in the Roman empire before the destruction of Jerusalem. Four emperors, Nero, Galba, Otho, and Vitellius, suffered violent deaths within the short span of eighteen months. As a result of these changes in the government, there were commotions throughout the empire. Parties were formed, and bloody and violent wars were the consequence of loyalty to the particular emperors. This is especially remarkable, as at the time the prophecy was made, the empire was in a state of peace.

Rumours of wars. Wars declared, or threatened, but not carried out. Josephus says that Bardanes, and after him Volageses, declared war against the Jews, but it was not carried out (Antiquities 20.34). He also says that Vitellius, governor of Syria, declared war against Aretas, king of Arabia, and wanted to lead his army through Palestine, but the death of Tiberius prevented the war (Antiquities 18.5.3).

The end is not yet. The end of the Jewish economy; the destruction of Jerusalem will not immediately follow. Therefore, do not be alarmed when you hear of those commotions. Other signs will warn you when to be alarmed and seek security.