Jesus, the Apostles, and the New Testament — Historical Setting

The Destruction of Jerusalem

AD 70
A Visit With Jesus

The Roman destruction of Jerusalem ended the Second Temple sacrificial system and became a major historical dividing point for Jews and Christians.

Full Account

After revolt began in AD 66, Roman armies besieged and captured Jerusalem. The temple was burned, and the city suffered devastating loss.

Jesus had warned His disciples of Jerusalem's coming judgment. Christians did not depend upon temple sacrifice because they understood Christ's death as the once-for-all sacrifice, but the catastrophe transformed the Jewish and Christian world in which the New Testament writings circulated.

Historical Significance

AD 70 provides an important chronological reference for discussions of Gospel dating and the separation of church and synagogue, though individual arguments must not be treated as automatic proof.

People, Places and Sources