The Pharisees wanted to know when the kingdom of God would come. Jesus declares that it was in their midst, because He was in their midst. The kingdom is the person of Jesus Christ. The issue is how do we respond to the person of Jesus. The Pharisees wanted to avoid that issue, and certainly did not want to commit themselves to Jesus. Similarly, there are many people who are fascinated by the "last days" and other things surrounding the second coming. Most of this is an excuse to avoid the real issue. The best way to be prepared for the return of Christ is to be committed to Him today.
Jesus then turns to His disciples. People want to focus on events and signs, Jesus puts the focus on the cross. Moreover, when He does return absolutely no spiritual insight nor theological training will be necessary to work out whether or not it is He! We must focus on following Christ today.
Indeed immediately prior to His return people will be carrying on much as normal. And when He does return the time for debate will be over.
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