Dan, Some have came to believe that the Abomination that causes desolation occured and was fulfilled with the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70. There are similarities between the destruction of Jerusalem and the events leading up to the Second Coming of Christ.
In A.D. 70 the temple was destroyed. In the events leading up to Christ's Second Coming, the temple that will then be in existence will not be destroyed, though it will be desecrated.
The first abomination that causes destruction is explained in the books of 1 and 2 Maccabees. Antiochus attempted to destroy the Jewish religion, killing thousands of Jewish men, women, and children. The result was the Maccabean revolt in which he was unable to completely quell. It is said that Antiochus offered a sow on the alterand made the temple unclean or abominable. He also set up a statue of a Greek god in the temple. From the fulfillment of Daniel 11, it can be understood that there will be a future desecration of the temple along the same lines. This event will occur 3 1/2 years before the Second CVoming of Christ. Read Daniel 9:26,27.In Daniel 12:11,12 you can find further information about this event.
Since there is no temple in Jerusalem at this time and none in existence since its destruction in 70 A.D., Scripture indicates that in the seven years preceding the Second Coming of Christ, orthodox Jews will resume there sacrifices in a temple that has been built at that time. the sacrifical system will be stopped three and one half years before Christ's return when the temple will be desecrated. This sign will be so definite, the Jews will know that the Great Tribulation has begun. See Revelation 13:11-15 describing the activities of the false prophet. This coincides with Jesus command to flee to the mountains in connection with the abomination.
According to Zechariah 13:8, 2/3 of the people living will be struck down and die. God will protect 1/3 of those in the Great Tribulation as a nucleus for the nation Israel in the Millenial Kingdom.
Regards,
Santiago
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