The Discourse opens with warnings about coming deceivers who propagate false expectations about the end – Mark 13:5-13.

Jesus began his Olivet Discourse with an ominous warning about coming deceivers, men who will claim his authority and spread rumors about calamities, thereby “deceiving many.” This warning is repeated at pivotal points in the discourse. For example, prior to the coming of the Son of Man, “many false prophets will arise and deceive many,” including the employment of signs and wonders.

On Olivet, Jesus reiterated key information that is necessary for his followers to avoid being misled by deceivers.

Christ’s final block of teaching is commonly called his ‘Olivet Discourse,’ a series of instructions given to the disciples shortly before his arrest, trial, and execution. In it, three warnings are repeated that disciples must heed to avoid deceit and disaster, warnings about deceivers, the timing of his return, and the need for constant vigilance.