Matthew Chapter 24
Jesus answered the question of the disciples, “when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”
The disciples anticipated that Jesus’ answer would entail one big cataclysmic event. But the answer came as several events that will take place pointing to the end of the age.
The key takeaway is that every generation must be prepared for the return of Christ because no man knows the hour in which He will return.
As the disciples walked with Jesus, they pointed out the beautiful craftmanship of the temple. But Jesus told them that the temple would be destroyed.
This prophecy was literally fulfilled when the Romans destroyed it in 70AD. They set fire to the temple and the flames were so hot that the gold pieces within the temple melted down between the cracks of the stones. The Romans tried to get to all that gold by overturning all the stones.
This direct fulfillment of prophecy tells us that as this prophecy happened exactly as Jesus said it would, so will the other future prophecies.
Let's Reflect
1. Jesus said that we should not be led astray by the teachings of others who seem legitimate because they claim they are speaking in whose name?
2. Jesus also told us not to be alarmed when we hear of things such as wars, famines, and earthquakes because these individual events are not the end but rather signs to point us to look to the Savior. Jesus described these times as what? See verse 8.
3. In verse 32 Jesus gave us an indication as to when we can expect His coming. The generation that sees all of these signs coming together is the generation that will see the return of Christ. That generation will not what?
4. Once the church has been removed in the rapture, the great tribulations will begin. The key sign is what is known as the abomination of desolation. What Old Testament prophet spoke about this event? This is when the anti-christ will set up his “kingdom” in the temple.
5. When this happens what does Jesus say the people of Judah will need to do?
6. At the end of the tribulation period of seven years, who will be the one who comes in great glory?
7. In response to the disciples’ questions as to when Jesus would set up His kingdom, His answer is found in verse 36. What did He say?
8. Jesus said His coming will be like what Old Testament event?
9. What is the idea of verses 45-51? Jesus is teaching to be ready for His coming, repent, because in those days, when He comes, it will be too late and what will happen to people who have not repented according to the last verse?
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