Pastor Alex continued the series on Matthew by preaching Matthew 24:15-31. In this text, Jesus is continuing His revelation to the disciples about His second coming. In this passage, He speaks of the Tribulation to which the prophecy has an “already and not yet” meaning to it.

Already:

1. 168BC – During the Maccabean Revolt, there was a group that setup the Temple to worship Zeus with pig sacrifices. This was called the, “Abomination of desolation”.

2. 70AD – The destruction of Jerusalem where “no stone was left unturned”.

No Yet:

1. Revelation 13:14 – The next Abomination of Desolation

The tribulation is a 7-year period of great trouble and suffering when the wrath of God is poured out. The whole earth will know when Jesus returns. He uniquely speaks of this return in verses 23-28. We know through faith and through history that He was here, and we have confidence that He is coming back.

1. He said He is coming back (John 14:1-3)

2. The angels told us (Acts 1:10-11)

3. To save those who are eagerly waiting for Him (Hebrews 9:27-28)

The rapture is not found in Scripture, but is described while taking in account the full council of the Scriptures. The rapture is “a snatching away” of those that are in Christ (1 Thes 4:13-18). There are many views about whether or not believer’s will go through the tribulation.

Yes, we will:

1. The chronology of Matthew 24

2. Rev 6:19 – speaks of believers being present

3. 1 Thes 4 – shows 2nd coming all as one event

4.  Matthew 13 – parable of wheat and tares all happen together

No, we won’t:

1. 1 Thes 1:10; 5:9

2. Romans 5:9 – we will not suffer wrath

3. Luke12:36 – Jesus at the wedding feast

Ultimately, what matters is that Jesus is returning and there will be a judgement of mankind. Verse 36 states that Jesus does not even know when He will return. He must wait until God the Father tells Him to go!

1. Are you ready for that day?

2. Why would Christ keep us from knowing the date of His return?

3. Are you living this day under the shadow of that day?

4. Who are 3 people you can pray for this week that need to be ready? (Don’t just pick the “easy” ones. Think about those who are hard to be around and pray for them.

5. When was the last time you encouraged someone with the words, “Jesus is coming!”? Why don’t you remind people of that truth?

Father, thank you for being all-knowing and understanding the needs of your people. I often forget to live my life under the shadow of the return of Jesus. Help me to keep my heart tethered to that glorious truth, and to live in a way that points others to that truth. Today, I pray for ______________, _________________, and ________________ to know the truth of the Gospel and of Jesus’ return. Holy Spirit, help me know how to pray for their hearts, and please draw them to repentance.