Nov_2_2026_Matthew24_Part2_Sermon_Formatted.docx

In this sermon on Matthew 24:29–35, we explored Jesus’ prophetic words about the time “immediately after the tribulation.” Jesus bridges the destruction of Jerusalem with the ultimate destiny of the world, describing cosmic upheaval and the public, unmistakable return of the Son of Man. The imagery of darkened sun, falling stars, and shaken heavens signals not only judgment but the overturning of the present order—both physical and spiritual. Christ’s return will be visible to all, bringing universal accountability and the gathering of God’s elect from every corner of the earth. Through the parable of the fig tree, Jesus urges us to discern the signs of His coming, not to speculate about dates, but to cultivate a life of readiness, obedience, and hope. The call is not to get ready someday, but to be ready now, living faithfully in the tension between present trials and coming glory.

Key Takeaways

• 1. The language of cosmic upheaval—darkened sun, falling stars, shaken heavens—reminds us that God’s interventions in history are never merely symbolic. They signal the end of one order and the birth of another, both in the world and in our hearts. When God shakes the heavens, He exposes the foundations we trust, inviting us to anchor ourselves in His unshakable kingdom.
• 2. The return of Christ will be public, unmistakable, and universally recognized. Every heart will be confronted with the truth of who Jesus is—some in repentance, others in terror. This coming reckoning is not just about fear, but about the hope that justice, mercy, and truth will finally prevail, and that every hidden thing will be brought into the light.
• 3. The gathering of the elect is a testimony to God’s faithfulness across all ages, nations, and circumstances. No believer is forgotten or overlooked; God’s redemption is comprehensive and personal. Our security is not in our own readiness, but in the faithfulness of the One who calls, gathers, and preserves His people.
• 4. The parable of the fig tree teaches us to discern spiritual seasons, not to predict dates. Just as leaves signal the approach of summer, so the unfolding of God’s purposes in history and in our lives should awaken us to His nearness. True readiness is not about having secret knowledge, but about cultivating a heart that is sensitive to God’s movements and responsive to His voice.
• 5. Readiness for Christ’s return is not passive waiting, but active, faithful living. It means examining our lives, maintaining spiritual disciplines, and refusing to delay repentance or obedience. In a world of uncertainty and deception, we are called to be watchful, faithful, holy, and hopeful—living each day as those who expect the King, and as those who live as He expects.

1. What are some of the cosmic signs Jesus describes in Matthew 24:29–31, and what do they signal?
2. According to Jesus, how will His return be experienced by the world? Is it private or public?
3. In the parable of the fig tree (vv. 32–33), what does Jesus say the budding leaves represent?
4. What does Jesus say about His words in verse 35, and why might that be important in the context of this passage?

1. The sermon mentioned that the cosmic upheaval is not just symbolic, but signals the end of one order and the birth of another. What might it look like for God to “shake the heavens” in someone’s personal life?
2. Jesus says His return will be unmistakable and every tribe will mourn. Why do you think some will mourn in repentance and others in terror? What does this reveal about people’s hearts?
3. The gathering of the elect is described as comprehensive and personal. How does this shape a believer’s sense of security and identity, especially in times of trial or uncertainty?
4. The parable of the fig tree is about discerning spiritual seasons, not predicting dates. What are some ways believers can be sensitive to God’s movements in their own lives?

1. The sermon calls us to “be ready now, not someday.” What is one area of your life where you tend to delay obedience or repentance? What would it look like to respond immediately instead of waiting?
2. When God “shakes the foundations” in your life—through loss, change, or challenge—what are some things you tend to rely on besides Him? How can you anchor yourself more deeply in God’s unshakable kingdom this week?
3. Jesus’ return will bring everything into the light. Is there anything hidden in your life that you need to bring before God or trusted believers? What step could you take toward honesty and accountability?
4. The sermon says true readiness is about cultivating a heart sensitive to God’s voice. What spiritual discipline (prayer, Scripture, worship, service, etc.) do you need to renew or strengthen to stay watchful and faithful?
5. The gathering of the elect shows that no believer is forgotten. Have you ever felt overlooked or insignificant in your faith journey? How does God’s promise to gather His people encourage you personally?
6. The parable of the fig tree warns against trying to predict dates, but encourages discernment. What are some “signs” in your own life or in the world that remind you of God’s nearness? How do you respond to them?
7. The sermon urges us to live with hope, holiness, and faithfulness. What is one practical way you can live as someone who expects the King this week—in your family, work, or community?