Week of February 25, 2024
Jesus on the End Times
Jesus’ teaching on the end times is at the same time perplexing, foreboding, and inspiring. It focuses both near term (the destruction of Jerusalem) and long term (his second coming) but with uncertainty as to how long we’ll have to wait. We can anticipate that there will be suffering and that much evil will be unleashed, yet in the end, Jesus wins. Therefore we do not lose hope!
Monday | Luke 21:5-24
Jesus sadly speaks of the destruction of the temple, Jerusalem, and the people. Amid chaos and destruction, He says to His disciples, “This will be your opportunity to bear witness….for I will give you a mouth and wisdom…” v. 13-19 How do these words give you courage to handle the chaos we have in our own part of the world? How do we stand firm in our faith during difficult times?
Tuesday | Luke 21:25-38
Jesus continues by speaking of the “Son of Man” coming in great power. (He seems to be shifting now to His Second Coming.) Pay attention! Watch for His coming – “straighten up and raise your heads because redemption is drawing near”. What does Jesus want us to be watching for? How can we best prepare for Jesus’ coming?
Wednesday | Matthew 24:29-35
Jesus speaks of various signs that point to His Second Coming – namely, the heavenly lights and the fig tree. How does anticipating God’s Second Coming influence the way you live? How do the words of v. 35 give you hope for the future?
Thursday | I Thessalonians 4:13-5:14
Many people have questions about Jesus’ Second Coming. There is so much we don’t know, but Paul gives us a little window as to what will happen. What stands out to you about Christ’s Second Coming? According to Paul’s letter, how should we prepare?
Friday | I Corinthians 15:51-58
This passage is often read at funerals. How would you describe the excitement of the Lord’s Second Coming? How does this passage give hope to one who is grieving? What direction does Paul give to us in v.58? How has God prepared us for Jesus’ triumphant return?
