1. Matthew 24:26 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

Why does Jesus mention the desert and the inner rooms?

Matthew 24:26 (ESV)

26 So, if they say to you, ‘Look, he is in the wilderness,’ do not go out. If they say, ‘Look, he is in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it.

The idea of the Messiah coming from the wilderness/desert area likely stems from the ministries of Moses, Elijah and John the Baptist. The mention of a hidden room is less clear. In either case, Jesus’ message is clear. Believers must not give credence to false reports of the return of the Messiah.1