This section is the end times passage. The disciples were marvelling at the temple, but Jesus tells them that it will come to nothing. This happened in AD70 when it was destroyed. This applies to all human structures, whether physical or organisational.
The disciples immediately wanted to know when this would happen. Similarly, there is an unhealthy interest in when the return of Christ will happen. To their question Jesus gives a warning against deception. If we look for the wrong things we are likely to find the wrong things. We are not to be deceived by people claiming to be the Messiah, or to know when these things will happen. Nor are we to be deceived by dramatic events. There will be wars and natural disasters. Our response is not to be afraid.
Then he warns them of persecution. Again we are not to fear. When called to give an account the Holy Spirit will give us the words.
There will be betrayal, even within families. Our response is to stand firm.
Then in v20 Jesus gives specific warnings for what would happen in AD66-70. This is when the siege would begin. He warns them to flee when they see the Roman armies gathering. Many did heed this warning and so were saved.
Now, despite what some would say, these verses are not talking just about what happened in AD66-70. Verse 24 could be seen as describing the difficult history that Jerusalem has had since that time, and v25 onwards seem to be clearly speaking about the very end times when Jesus returns.
Verse 32 is something of an enigma, but "this generation" may just be talking about this present age.
So what are we to do in the light of all this? We are not to be weighed down with anxiety, drunkenness can be a response to letting this happen, an act of despair. Instead we are to focus on serving the Lord each day.
I have said more about these matters in the equivalent passages in Matthew and Mark:
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