What does Matthew 24:7 mean?

Human beings tend to attach apocalyptic meaning to catastrophic events. That's a "normal" response to fear and uncertainty, but it's directly contrary to the warnings Jesus gives in this very passage. The disciples have asked Jesus for signs that will warn them of the end of the age and His return (Matthew 24:3). He has begun, instead, to tell them about things that will not be signs of the end. This includes real and rumored wars—tales of violence, catastrophe, unrest, or other scandalous news from far-away places (Matthew 24:4–6).

Now He adds the idea of international struggles, natural disasters, and economic crisis. Such events can feel like "the end" to those who live through them, but Jesus is clear: His disciples should not conclude that the end has arrived based on these kinds of happenings in the world. He said in the previous verse that such things must take place. In the next verse, He refers to these as only "the beginning of the birth pains" (Matthew 24:8).

Because of that ambiguity, there is disagreement about exactly what time period is in mind here. Some interpreters believe Jesus is speaking of general sin and chaos, worldwide, leading up to the final seven-year tribulation, just prior to His millennial kingdom (Revelation 20:4). Others believe this is a reference to that seven-year period, itself.