Jesus’ response here in Matthew 24 was in regard to “the sign of Your coming” (Matt. 24:3, NKJV); that is, of Christ’s coming to reign. What other warning does Jesus give in the context of events before His return, and how has this been seen through history? Matt. 24:23-26. Here’s Jesus, from a worldly perspective … Continue reading –>
Read Matthew 24:15-22. What is Jesus talking about here? Again, what kind of picture does He present in response to the questions asked Him? “The abomination of desolation” is generally understood as some kind of sacrilege or desecration of what is holy. Jesus is obviously talking about the destruction of Jerusalem, which would come in … Continue reading –>
Blind Guides. Here is a picture of lapis luzili. What significance can we place on this beautiful gem in the offering of the covenant between God and His people? (See the lesson guide.) How astonished do you think the top leaders of the new nation were to behold God? How did they respond? How long did their … Continue reading –>
After Jesus rebuked the specific Jewish leaders who rejected Him, John 12:20-26 records a fascinating request. Christ is told about Gentiles who wanted “to see Jesus” (NKJV). Yet, these Gentiles first make their request to Jews who are faithful to Jesus. Before long, something similar would happen on a much larger scale: while some Jews … Continue reading –>
It was Jesus Himself who had led the children of Israel into Jerusalem, with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. On eagle’s wings He had carried them out of Egypt and brought them to Himself. “‘Out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be … Continue reading –>
A survey of people in America taken a few years ago reveals a strong reaction to perceived hypocrisy in its Christian churches. A whopping 72% of people who believe in God, but who don’t attend church, said the church is full of hypocrites! Jesus noted that the leaders of the church of His time were hypocritical, … Continue reading –>
Read for This Week’s Study: Exod. 19:5-6; Matthew 23; John 12:20-26; Matthew 24; 1 Thess. 4:16. Memory Text:“‘And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted’” (Matthew 23:12, NKJV). The second coming of Jesus is the climax of the Christian faith. The First Advent of Jesus and His death … Continue reading –>
When the “remnant” is brought to view in Revelation, our attention is directed to God’s intent that the movement be defined by a specific theological construct: “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony … Continue reading –>
Discussion starters for Lesson 10: Jesus in Jerusalem 1. The rejected one would become the chief cornerstone. Have you ever wondered how Jesus was able to tolerate the abuse and misunderstanding that marred His ministry on earth? Why did He allow Himself to be brought so low? Was He not fully qualified to be the … Continue reading –>
The London newspaper headline read: “Woman dead in flat for three years: skeleton of Joyce found on sofa with telly still on” (“Joyce Carol Vincent: How could this young woman lie dead and undiscovered for almost three years?“). Dead for three years in a London apartment, and no one missed her? No one called to … Continue reading –>
The great news of the Bible is that we were created by a loving God who has provided us all a way out of this mess of sin and death through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. This is a theme that appears one way or another all through the Bible. We can see … Continue reading –>
The What and How of Clergy Sexual Misconduct Hopefully you’ll live out your days never encountering the type of religious leader who makes an article like this necessary. But for the sake of those who do, and in light of the fact that you might, read on. I want to help all of us better … Continue reading –>
