Introduction

In Matthew 24:1-35 Jesus gave us a list of signs to look out for before his return. Signs so that when we see them, we know that the end is near. Things like the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple, the presence of false teachers, persecution of Christian believers, war, famine, disease and natural disasters—these things have been with us ever since Christ’s ascension and they will stay with us until he returns: they are signs that the end is near. When Jesus comes, everything will change but until then nothing will change.

Today Jesus is going to continue his teaching on the topic of his return, specifically how it will be completely unexpected and what we can do to be ready for that day.

Jesus’ return will be completely unexpected

• Explain: Draw attention to Matthew 24:36. Briefly explain how it is something of a mystery even if it affirms that no one know when Jesus will return.

• Explain: How do the days of Noah relate to the return of the Son of Man? Will there be a transition period?

• Explain: How will Jesus’ return be completely different from our normal life experience?

• Explain: Does Matthew 24:40-41 support the idea of a rapture? Do you want to be the one who is taken or the one who is left behind?

• Explain/Apply: Does anyone know when Jesus will return? What does this mean about our response to sects/preachers who say they have discovered the secret?

Being ready

• Explain: What does it not mean to stay awake? Where does Jesus give us the answer about what it does mean to stay awake and be ready?

• Explain: What is the main teaching point of the parable of the houseowner and the thief? How does this tie in with the idea of getting ready in response to special information?

• Explain/Apply: How is Jesus warning us that we will not be ready for his return if we rely on an external stimulus?

• Explain: What are the commonalities and differences between the two servants?

• Explain/Apply: How does the parable of the two servants inform us of Jesus’ vision for the Christian life while we wait for his return?

• Explain/Apply: Who will be ready for the return of Jesus Christ? What does the life of such a person look like?

Prayer

Father,

Thank you that there is a day coming when you will execute judgment, when your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, returns in glory to gather his elect from the four winds even as he casts the wicked into the place of weeping and gnashing of teeth. We look forward to that day when all of life will be transformed, when we will no longer live in a world that is corrupted and cursed but in a new creation, in your presence enjoying your blessing and rule. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on that future by living in faithful obedience today. Work in us by your Spirit to nourish and strengthen our faith, to make us content with ordinary day to day living, not prying into the secret things that have not been revealed to us. May we be assured also that the day of Christ’s return will be for us, not a day of judgment, but a day of salvation because we know our Master and we have been perfectly justified through faith in him.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.