The end of the world is a topic that fascinates many. As we watch events unfold before us, we often wonder if this just might be the moment. While no one knows precisely when, Scripture teaches us that these signs should serve as continual reminders that we are always living in the last days. They should cause us to live in the immediacy of the end and the urgency of our mission. ~ Pastor Dave
Open: Have you ever read or watched something about the end of the world or the apocalypse? Share your story.
Read: Matthew 24-26; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18; Titus 2:11-15; 2 Peter 3; Revelation 20:1-15; 22
Discuss:
1. Why are so many people fascinated with the end times? Why do events like earthquakes, hurricanes and unknown viruses stir our curiosity for the future? How have you observed this in our current season? Why is there so much confusion regarding the end times?
2. Prophecy makes up a huge portion of the Bible. There are 1,800 Old Testament and 300 New Testament references to the return of Christ. Why does the Bible give so much detail about Christ’s second coming? What are some of the different theological viewpoints regarding the end times?
3. When Jesus was asked about the end, He didn’t focus merely on the “when” and the “what” as much as the “so what.” What did Jesus list as warnings of the end times? In what ways have you seen fallacies and falsehoods rise? Describe how some of the disturbing events we experience are like birth pains pointing us to the end:
4. Before Jesus returns, there are key events that must take place. What are some of those events? In Matthew 24:29-31, Jesus gives a clear description of His second coming. Describe this event; In what ways is this moment filled with both justice and redemption?
5. How should the end times both wake us up and encourage us? What are the areas that need to “wake up” in your life? In what ways during this season have you observed God’s gospel purposes being accomplished?
Pray: Pray that you would live in the immediacy of the end and urgency of the mission. Read: Discuss:
Memorize/Meditate: For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ…Titus 2:11-13
