Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 13:22

"for there shall arise false Christs and false prophets, and shall show signs and wonders, that they may lead astray, if possible, the elect." — Mark 13:22 (ASV)

The section (vv.5–23) ends as it began, with a warning against false Christs. A crisis like that of the fall of the city would be sure to produce many false pretenders; so will the crisis of the approaching End. These pretenders will wield supernatural power great enough to perform “signs and miracles.” Yet they will not be able to deceive God’s people; that is not possible, for God will guard his elect. Mark closes with another exhortation to remain alert and on guard; we must do our own part to resist the temptations of the false prophets.