There is a longing in each of us to want to know the future. Questions like, “When is Jesus coming back?” and “Is the end of the world near?” can permeate our thinking. Some feel stressed by these questions. Others become obsessed with their answers. Instead, we should feel blessed to know that God has revealed to us details that point us to the focal point of all Biblical prophecy, Jesus. It’s only when we recognize His central point of prophecy that we will submit to His grand purpose in prophecy. ~ Pastor Dave
Open: Have you ever waited for something that never came to fruition? Share your story.
Read: 2 Peter 3; Isaiah 40:12-26; Mark 13; Titus 2:11-14
Discuss:
1. When it comes to prophecy, there are many different feelings and opinions. Some feel it’s too difficult to understand. Others are obsessed. How do you think most people perceive prophecy in the Scripture? Why are we so curious about the future? How do you feel about the topic? Why?
2. The bulk of Biblical prophecy focuses on three main points. Can you name them? Share some examples of prophecies about Israel. How about Christ’s incarnation (first coming)? How did the Biblical characters view prophecy in their day? In what ways do we view prophecy incorrectly?
3. One scholar said, “Something exciting to describe and something impossible to describe will result in something like the language in prophecy.” What does he mean by this statement? In what way is prophecy both exciting and impossible? What are some important steps that can help us to better understand Biblical prophecy? What makes prophecy so much easier to view in reverse?
4. The second coming of Christ is a key doctrine in the Bible. It’s mentioned 329 times. 1 in 30 verses in the New Testament reference it. What excites you most about the second coming of Christ? What causes you the most question? According to 2 Peter 3, why hasn’t Christ returned yet (hint: notice verse 9)?
5. 2 Peter 3 says that there will be “scoffers” that will rise up. In our current culture, what do “scoffers” say about Christ and His coming? How should the reality of Christ’s coming, cause hope to rise? Is there anything in your life that needs to change or is there someone God might be calling you to share the gospel with before Christ returns?
Pray: Ask God to give you a better understanding of Biblical prophecy. Pray that any obsession or stress you might have concerning the end times would bring you to a greater focus on the point of prophecy, Jesus. Ask God to bring to light any areas of your life that are not ready for His coming. Pray that God would give you an opportunity to share the gospel with someone.
Memorize/Meditate: Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God…2 Peter 3:11-12
