Living in Expectation: The Second Coming of Christ
Summary
Today, we explored what may be the most significant event in all of human history: the second coming of Jesus Christ, also known as “the revelation.” While the world celebrates the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, His return will be the exact opposite—global, unmistakable, and glorious. Every eye will see Him, every tongue will confess, and the world will witness the King of Kings and Lord of Lords coming in power. This is not just a doctrine to debate, but a reality that the entire Bible points toward, with over 300 Old Testament references and nearly every New Testament book mentioning His return.
We drew a clear distinction between the rapture and the revelation. The rapture is when Christ comes in the air for His bride, the church, and only believers are affected. It is imminent, joyful, and without specific signs. In contrast, the revelation is when Christ returns with His saints to the earth, following a period of tribulation and judgment. This event is marked by many clear signs, including global turmoil, deception, wars, famines, pestilence, earthquakes, and a growing hatred toward Israel. The Bible is explicit: as the end draws near, the world’s animosity toward the Jewish people will intensify, and Jerusalem will become the epicenter of global conflict.
Jesus Himself outlined three key questions in Matthew 24: When will the temple be destroyed? What are the signs of His coming? And what is the end of the age? The destruction of the temple was fulfilled in AD 70, just as Jesus predicted. The signs of His coming are increasingly evident in our world today—technological explosion, the rebirth of Israel, the return of the Jews to their homeland, and preparations for the third temple. The end of the age is tied to the generation that witnessed Israel’s rebirth in 1948, and while we cannot set dates, we are called to discern the times.
Ultimately, the call is to live prepared—ready for Christ’s return at any moment, but also planning and working as if He may tarry. The signs are all around us, and the promise is sure: Jesus will return, and He will reign as King. Let us live with urgency, hope, and faithfulness, sharing the good news and loving others until that glorious day.
Key Takeaways
- The Distinction Between the Rapture and the Revelation
Understanding the difference between the rapture and the revelation is crucial. The rapture is a private event for believers, marked by Christ coming in the air to receive His church, while the revelation is a public, global event where Christ returns with His saints to judge and reign. This distinction shapes our expectations and helps us interpret biblical prophecy with clarity and hope. [12:21]
- The Centrality of Israel in God’s End-Time Plan
God’s covenant with Israel remains unbroken, and the Jewish people are at the heart of end-time prophecy. The increasing hostility toward Israel and the Jewish people is not merely political but deeply spiritual, as the enemy seeks to undermine God’s promises. Blessing Israel aligns us with God’s purposes, and we must resist the world’s rhetoric and stand with what Scripture declares. [09:15]
- The Signs of the Times Are Accelerating
Jesus gave clear signs to watch for: deception, wars, famines, pestilence, earthquakes, and a surge in lawlessness and hatred. These are not random events but signals that the world is moving toward its appointed climax. The exponential increase in knowledge, the rebirth of Israel, and preparations for the third temple are all prophetic markers that should awaken us to the lateness of the hour. [29:16]
- The Generation That Sees Israel’s Rebirth
Jesus said the generation that witnesses the rebirth of Israel will not pass away until all these things are fulfilled. While we cannot pinpoint the exact length of a generation or set dates, the restoration of Israel in 1948 is a prophetic milestone. This should stir us to live with a sense of urgency, recognizing that we are living in unprecedented times foretold by Scripture. [35:47]
- Living Prepared and Purposeful
The call is not to speculate about dates but to live every day as if Jesus could return at any moment. Preparation means walking in faith, holiness, and mission—loving God, loving people, and sharing the gospel. At the same time, we plan and labor for the future, trusting God’s timing and remaining steadfast until He comes. [41:11]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:00] - Introduction and Prayer
[02:30] - The Importance of the Revelation
[04:10] - Rapture vs. Revelation: Key Differences
[07:30] - Israel’s Role in End-Time Prophecy
[10:00] - Old and New Testament Prophecies of Christ’s Return
[12:21] - The Power of Jesus’ Word at His Return
[15:10] - Three Questions from Matthew 24
[16:08] - The Destruction of the Temple
[18:50] - Signs of the End Times
[22:22] - The Abomination of Desolation Explained
[25:45] - The Great Tribulation and Christ’s Return
[29:16] - Knowledge Explosion and Modern Signs
[32:22] - The Third Temple and Prophetic Fulfillment
[34:37] - The Parable of the Fig Tree and the End of the Age
[41:11] - Living Prepared for Christ’s Return
[42:26] - Closing Prayer and Invitation
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: The Second Coming of Jesus – Living Prepared
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### Bible Reading
Matthew 24:1-31 (ESV)
> Jesus left the temple and was going away, when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”
> As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”
> And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.
> Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake. And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another. And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
> “So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. ...
> (Read through verse 31 for the full context.)
Zechariah 14:1-5 (ESV)
> Behold, a day is coming for the Lord, when the spoil taken from you will be divided in your midst. For I will gather all the nations against Jerusalem to battle, and the city shall be taken and the houses plundered and the women raped. Half of the city shall go out into exile, but the rest of the people shall not be cut off from the city. Then the Lord will go out and fight against those nations as when he fights on a day of battle. On that day his feet shall stand on the Mount of Olives that lies before Jerusalem on the east, and the Mount of Olives shall be split in two from east to west by a very wide valley, so that one half of the Mount shall move northward, and the other half southward. And you shall flee to the valley of my mountains, for the valley of the mountains shall reach to Azal. And you shall flee as you fled from the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah. Then the Lord my God will come, and all the holy ones with him.
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Matthew 24, what three questions did the disciples ask Jesus about the future? ([15:10])
2. What are some of the specific signs Jesus said would happen before His return? (Look for at least three from Matthew 24.) ([18:50])
3. In Zechariah 14, what does the Lord say will happen to Jerusalem and what will He do in response? ([09:15])
4. What is the difference between the rapture and the revelation (second coming) as described in the sermon? ([12:21])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus gave so many signs about His return, but still said that no one knows the day or hour? How does this tension affect how believers should live? ([35:47])
2. The sermon emphasized the central role of Israel in end-time prophecy. Why is Israel so important in God’s plan, and how does this shape our understanding of current events? ([09:15])
3. The passage in Zechariah describes God defending Jerusalem and coming with “all His saints.” What does this reveal about God’s faithfulness to His promises and His people? ([09:15])
4. The sermon mentioned a “knowledge explosion” and the rebirth of Israel as modern signs. How should believers interpret these events in light of biblical prophecy? ([29:16])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon said, “Preparation means walking in faith, holiness, and mission—loving God, loving people, and sharing the gospel.” What is one specific way you can live more prepared for Christ’s return this week? ([41:11])
2. The world’s hostility toward Israel is increasing. How can you personally “bless Israel” or stand with God’s purposes, even if it’s unpopular? ([09:15])
3. Jesus warned about deception, lawlessness, and love growing cold. Are there areas in your life where you see these dangers? What steps can you take to guard your heart? ([18:50])
4. The sermon drew a clear line between the rapture (private for believers) and the revelation (public, global). How does understanding this distinction affect your hope and your urgency in sharing your faith? ([12:21])
5. The “signs of the times” are accelerating, including technology, global turmoil, and the return of the Jews to Israel. How do these signs impact your sense of urgency or purpose in your daily life? ([29:16])
6. The generation that saw Israel’s rebirth in 1948 is highlighted as significant. How does knowing you might be living in a prophetic generation change the way you plan for the future? ([35:47])
7. The sermon encouraged us to “plan and labor for the future, trusting God’s timing and remaining steadfast until He comes.” What is one area where you need to balance being prepared for Christ’s return with faithfully working and planning for the future? ([41:11])
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to pray for readiness, discernment, and boldness to live out their faith in light of Christ’s promised return. Pray for Israel, for the church to stand strong, and for opportunities to share the gospel with urgency and love.
Devotional
Day 1: The Certainty and Global Impact of Christ’s Second Coming
The return of Jesus Christ is not a fringe belief but a central, unifying doctrine of the Christian faith, affirmed throughout both the Old and New Testaments. Unlike His first coming, which began quietly in Bethlehem, His second coming will be a global event witnessed by every eye and acknowledged by every tongue. This event, often called “the revelation,” will leave no room for doubt—Jesus will return as King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and the whole world will know it. The anticipation of this event should fill believers with hope and urgency, reminding us that God’s promises are sure and His Word is trustworthy. [07:40]
Zechariah 14:3-4 (ESV)
Then the Lord will go out and fight against those nations as when he fights on a day of battle. On that day his feet shall stand on the Mount of Olives that lies before Jerusalem on the east, and the Mount of Olives shall be split in two from east to west by a very wide valley, so that one half of the Mount shall move northward, and the other half southward.
Reflection: How does the certainty of Christ’s visible, world-changing return shape the way you view current world events and your own daily priorities?
Day 2: The Signs of the Times—Recognizing the Season
Jesus gave clear signs to watch for regarding His return, including wars, rumors of wars, famines, pestilence, earthquakes, and increasing hostility toward Israel and the Jewish people. These signs are not meant to cause fear but to awaken believers to the reality that God’s plan is unfolding in real time. As these events escalate, it is vital not to be swept up in the world’s confusion or hatred, but to remain anchored in God’s Word and His promises. The increase in deception, lawlessness, and global turmoil are all reminders to stay alert and faithful, knowing that God is sovereign over history. [20:17]
Matthew 24:6-8, 12-14 (ESV)
And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains... And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
Reflection: Which of the signs Jesus described do you see most clearly in today’s world, and how can you respond with faith rather than fear?
Day 3: Israel’s Restoration—A Key Prophetic Sign
The rebirth of Israel as a nation in 1948 and the ongoing return of the Jewish people to their homeland are direct fulfillments of biblical prophecy and serve as a major sign of the approaching end of the age. God’s faithfulness to His covenant people is on display, and the world’s increasing focus on Israel is not accidental but divinely orchestrated. As believers, we are called to bless Israel and recognize that God’s promises to them are irrevocable. The restoration of Israel is a powerful reminder that God’s Word never fails and that He is actively working in history to bring about His purposes. [35:47]
Matthew 24:32-35 (ESV)
From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
Reflection: In what ways does seeing God’s faithfulness to Israel encourage you to trust His promises in your own life?
Day 4: Living Prepared—Ready for Christ’s Return
No one knows the exact day or hour of Jesus’ return, but believers are called to live in a state of readiness, prepared as if He could come at any moment. This means living each day with purpose, pursuing holiness, sharing the gospel, and loving others with urgency. Preparation is not about fear or speculation, but about faithfulness—being found doing the will of God when He returns. Planning for the future is wise, but our hearts must remain anchored in the hope of Christ’s imminent return, motivating us to live with eternal perspective. [41:11]
Matthew 24:42-44 (ESV)
Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
Reflection: What is one practical way you can “stay awake” and live ready for Jesus’ return this week?
Day 5: The Victory of Christ—Our Hope and Motivation
At the culmination of all things, Jesus will return in power and glory, defeating evil and establishing His kingdom on earth. Believers will return with Him, sharing in His victory and witnessing the fulfillment of every promise. This hope is not just for the future but is meant to inspire courage, perseverance, and joy in the present. No matter how dark the world becomes, the end of the story is secure—Jesus reigns as King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and His people will be with Him forever. Let this assurance fuel your faith and embolden your witness as you await His glorious appearing. [42:26]
Revelation 19:11-16 (ESV)
Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.
Reflection: How does the promise of Christ’s ultimate victory give you hope and courage to face the challenges of today?
Quotes
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