For vv. 1-2, see notes in Matt. 24:1-2.

In His preparation for His redemptive work (11:15—14:42), after confronting the opposers (Mark 11:15-33; 12:1-37) the Slave-Savior stayed with His followers to prepare them for His death (Mark 13:1-37; 14:1-42), an unexpected event that would shock and disappoint them, by
1) telling them the things that would come (vv. 2-37);
2) enjoying their love, expressed in a feast, and being anointed with costly, pure nard (Mark 14:3-9);
3) instituting His supper (1 Cor. 11:20) that they might remember Him (Mark 14:12-26);
4) warning them that they would stumble and charging them to watch and pray (Mark 14:27-42).
Immediately after such a preparation, He was arrested to be crucified (Mark 14:43-72; 15:1-28).

Or, what manner of stones...

In preparing the disciples for His death, the Slave-Savior in this chapter told them first the things to come, the things that would take place in the world during the church age, from His resurrection to His coming back. Concerning the days to come, He did not leave them in darkness; rather, He told them:
1) concerning the destruction of the temple, which would occur in A.D. 70 (vv. 1-2);
2) concerning the plagues at the beginning of birth pangs, which would begin after His ascension and continue until the great tribulation (vv. 3-8);
3) concerning the preaching of the gospel and the persecutions in the church age (vv. 9-13);
4) concerning the great tribulation and His second coming, both of which will take place in the last three and a half years of this age (vv. 14-27);
5) concerning watching, praying, and awaiting the Slave-Savior throughout the church age (vv. 28-37).
To the Slave-Savior's suffering followers, such an enlightening word was like "a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns" (2 Pet. 1:19).

For vv. 3-8, see notes in Matt. 24:3-8.

For vv. 9-13, see notes in Matt. 10:17-22 and Matt. 24:9-13.

The same Greek word as for princes in Matt. 2:6.

Some MSS insert, nor premeditate.

For vv. 14-23, see notes in Matt. 24:15-26.

Some MSS add, which is spoken of by Daniel the prophet.

In the Holy Place, that is, within God's temple (Matt. 24:15).

Some MSS read, your flight.

Lit., give.

Some MSS add, behold.

For vv. 28-31, see notes in Matt. 24:32-35.

Referring to the restoration of the nation of Israel, signified by the summer in v. 28.

Evening, midnight, cockcrowing, and morning are terms used for the four Roman night watches.