Matthew 24:26

“Wherefore if they shall say unto you, etc.] Any of the false prophets, or the deluded followers of false Christs: behold, he is in the desert, go not forth: that is, should they affirm, that the Messiah is in such a wilderness, in the wilderness of Judea, or in any other desert place, do not go out of the places where you are to see, or hear, and know the truth of things; lest you should, in any respect, be stumbled, ensnared, and brought into danger. It was usual for these impostors to lead their followers into deserts, pretending to work wonders in such solitary places: so, during the siege, Simon, the son of Giora, collected together many thousands in the mountainous and desert parts of…”

“Behold, he is in the desert - The Jews had formed the expectation that the Messiah would appear suddenly from some unexpected quarter; hence, many would be looking to desert places, expecting that he would come from them. Accordingly, most of the impostors and pretended prophets led their people into the deserts. Go not forth - Do not follow them; they will only deceive you. In secret chambers - Concealed in some house, or some retired part of the city. Many would, doubtless, pretend that the Messiah was concealed there, and, either for the purpose of encouraging or deceiving the people, would pretend that they had discovered him. return to 'Top of Page'”

“24:26-28 These verses are an expansion of 24:23. The place and manner of the Messiah’s appearing was disputed among Jews. The Messiah’s glorious appearance and vindication will be unmistakable. 24:26 Some Jewish prophets persuaded the masses to follow them into the desert to see signs of deliverance (cp. 24:4-8). • hiding here: This is perhaps a reference to secretive sects, such as those at Qumran, or to the small fellowship groups associated with the Pharisees.”

“Wherefore: Our Lord not only foretells the appearance of these impostors, but also the manner and circumstance of their conduct. Accordingly, Josephus says that many impostors persuaded the people to follow them to the desert, promising them signs and wonders done by the providence of God. (See also Act 21:38). One persuaded the people to go up into the temple, which being set on fire by the Romans, 6,000 perished in the flames. he is in the desert: Mat 3:1; Isa 40:3; Luk 3:2, Luk 3:3; Act 21:38 Matthew 24:27”