The Second Coming

Sermon 91 in Series

Luke 21:25-33

[25] “And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, [26] people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. [27] And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. [28] Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

[29] And he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. [30] As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. [31] So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. [32] Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. [33] Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

DEEP SHEET: Sermon Study Questions
1.  How have you found Luke’s version of the Olivet Discourse to be an “orderly account” (1:3)? How has it helped in your reading of the parallels from Matthew and Mark?
2.  What signs does Jesus identify here as preceding his Return? How and why does Luke emphasize the effect it will have on the nations?
3.  How does this passage contrast the response of the world with the response of believers to these cosmic signs? What does it mean to say that we see with very different eyes?
4.  What will Christ’s Second Coming be like, and what will take place? How does it leave you in awe?
5.  How are v. 28 and the parable that follows meant to encourage the Christian reader? How does this challenge you to be hopeful and not weighed down with life’s cares?
6.  How does Jesus highlight the permanency of God’s Word? How does this bring you confidence and motivate you to read it?

References: Luke 17:20-37 (corporate reading); Matthew 24:29; Revelation 19:11-21; Daniel 7:13; Exodus 13:21; Acts 1:11; Matthew 25:31; 24:30-31; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Romans 8:23; 2 Peter 3:10; Isaiah 40:8.