A Proper Understanding of “This Generation” in Matt. 24 (Exegetical Eschatology)

Hank Hanegraaff, the host of the Bible Answer Man broadcast, explicates the meaning of “this generation” in Matthew 24:34. When the disciples called the Master’s attention to the magnificence of the temple and its surroundings, He replied, “I tell you the truth, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” Filled with apocalyptic awe and anxiety, the disciples asked, “When will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” In sober response, Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” Skeptics have been quick to point out that by these very words, Jesus disqualified Himself as deity and demonstrated that He was a false prophet. Nothing, however, could be further from the truth.