Thursday, January 28
Read Matthew 24
Think About It:
This chapter is an overview of the end of time here on earth and I think 24:42 is the most applicable verse for us today, “Watch therefore – for you know not what hour your Lord will come.” In Jesus’ time, the word “watch” referred to the watchmen positioned on the walls surrounding the temple in Jerusalem. Throughout the night, watchmen peered into the night for signs of torches, indicating a traveler or an approaching enemy army. The greatest challenge for watchmen was not to be caught sleeping during the night watches. You are a watchman/watchwoman! As believers, we must always stay alert and watchful! Think of some examples of how to apply this scripture to life today. Spend some time lifting up people in prayer you know who do not yet know Jesus as their LORD. Jesus’ second return will be swift and sudden with no time to repent or bargain about eternity. (verse 44)
Family Time:
- This chapter talks about a lot of things to come. These things will really happen. They sound pretty bad, even scary – and they may be. In the middle though, God gives us a verse to hold on to. Read verse 13. Does this verse say Christians won’t have hard times?
- The elect are true Christians. In verse 22, what is another bit of hope those who truly serve the Lord will have?
- Verses 23-26 warn us not to believe the false prophets. Many people wonder how we will really know when Jesus returns. Do you think you will be tricked into believing the false prophets? The good news is there is nothing to worry about. In verses 30-31, who will know that Jesus, the Son of Man, has returned? What do you think it will be like?
