Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 13:29

"even so ye also, when ye see these things coming to pass, know ye that he is nigh, [even] at the doors." — Mark 13:29 (ASV)

The chief problem in this verse is the identification of “these things.” Do they refer to the events surrounding the fall of the city of Jerusalem or to the events immediately preceding the end of the age? If (as seems likely) that phrase relates to “all these things” in v.30, then Jesus appears to be referring to the former; those listening to him would experience these signs in a special way when Jerusalem fell.

The next phrase may be translated either “it is near” (NIV) or “he is near.” Those who interpret vv.28–31 to relate to the events surrounding the fall of Jerusalem usually identify the “it” with the “abomination that causes desolation” (cf. v.14) or the fall of the city itself. If, on the other hand, vv.28–31 are descriptive of the End, then “he is near” would be a more fitting translation, though “it” (referring to the Parousia) would also be suitable. Luke (21:31) has for “it” (or “he”) the “kingdom of God.”