Prophetic Events: Trusting God's Faithfulness and Grace

Summary

Tonight, we explored the unfolding of prophetic events as revealed in Scripture, tracing the faithfulness of God through fulfilled prophecies and looking ahead to what is yet to come. From the birth, crucifixion, and resurrection of Christ, to the restoration of Israel in 1948 and 1967, we see that God’s Word is trustworthy and every prophecy finds its place in His grand design. The next event on the prophetic calendar is the rapture of the church, which will usher in the seven-year tribulation period—a time marked by both unprecedented judgment and remarkable grace.

The tribulation serves three main purposes. First, it is a final call for salvation, as multitudes from every nation will come to Christ even in the midst of great suffering. Second, it is the outpouring of God’s judgment on a world that has persistently rejected Him, a judgment so severe that people will long for death and yet not find it. Third, it is God’s means of bringing Israel to recognize Jesus as their Messiah, fulfilling His covenant promises and culminating in the second coming of Christ.

We also examined the various views on the timing of the rapture, affirming the pre-tribulation view based on the clear teaching that believers are not appointed to wrath but have already been judged and redeemed through the blood of Jesus. The church, as the body of Christ, is the restraining force against the full manifestation of evil, and when we are taken out of the way, the Antichrist will be revealed. Yet, even in the darkest times, God’s grace will abound, and His sovereignty will be displayed.

It is vital to remember that our hope is not in escaping suffering, but in the finished work of Christ. We have been tried, found guilty, and sentenced, but Jesus took our place, bearing our judgment so that we might be justified and redeemed. This is the foundation of our faith and the reason we can look to the future with confidence, knowing that God’s promises are sure and His grace is sufficient for every season.

Key Takeaways

- Prophecy’s Reliability and God’s Faithfulness
The fulfillment of past prophecies—such as Christ’s birth, death, resurrection, and the restoration of Israel—demonstrates that God’s Word is trustworthy. Every prophetic event fits into God’s plan, and we are called to study and understand these events, not to speculate, but to anchor our faith in the certainty of God’s promises. This should stir us to deeper trust and anticipation for what He will do next. [08:28]

- The Tribulation: Judgment and Mercy Intertwined
The tribulation is not merely a time of wrath, but also a season where God’s mercy is extended to those who have not yet heard or responded to the gospel. Even as judgment falls, a great multitude will come to salvation, showing that God’s heart is always for redemption, even in the midst of discipline. This challenges us to pray for revival and to recognize the urgency of sharing Christ now. [21:09]

- The Deceptive Power of “The Lie”
At the heart of humanity’s rebellion is the ancient lie that we can be like God, independent of Him. This delusion, which began in Eden, will reach its climax under the Antichrist, as people embrace deception rather than truth. The call is to love the truth, submit to God’s sovereignty, and guard our hearts against the subtle pride that resists His Lordship. [16:37]

- The Church’s Role as a Restraining Force
The presence of the Holy Spirit within the church holds back the full expression of evil in the world. When the church is removed, the Antichrist will be revealed, but until then, we are called to be salt and light, actively resisting darkness and advancing God’s kingdom. This is a sobering reminder of our spiritual authority and responsibility in this age. [12:59]

- Redemption: Judged, Sentenced, and Set Free
Every believer has already faced judgment—found guilty of sin, sentenced to death, but set free because Jesus took our place. Our hope is not in our own righteousness or endurance, but in the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice. This truth should fill us with gratitude, humility, and a daily awareness of the grace that sustains us, freeing us from condemnation and empowering us to live boldly for Him. [39:00]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:40] - Review of Fulfilled Prophecies
[02:26] - The Prophetic Calendar: Rapture and Tribulation
[08:28] - The Necessity of Fitting All Scripture
[09:31] - Why the Tribulation Period?
[10:55] - The Restrainer: Holy Spirit and the Church
[12:59] - The Church’s Role in Restraining Evil
[14:50] - The Lie and the Power of Deception
[16:37] - The Origin and Continuation of the Lie
[19:17] - Salvation During the Tribulation
[21:09] - Multitudes Saved in Tribulation
[22:50] - The Tribulation as God’s Judgment
[24:41] - Persecution and the Judgment of the Wicked
[26:07] - God’s Purpose for Israel in the Tribulation
[28:43] - The Church’s Judgment and Redemption
[31:08] - Views on the Rapture
[32:49] - Dangers of Kingdom Now Theology
[35:06] - Tribulation vs. The Tribulation
[36:37] - The Believer’s Judgment and Christ’s Sacrifice
[39:00] - The Sufficiency of Christ’s Redemption
[41:11] - No Condemnation for Those in Christ
[43:13] - Scriptural Support for Pre-Tribulation Rapture
[45:06] - Closing Prayer and Encouragement

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: The Faithfulness of God in Prophecy and the Hope of Redemption

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### Bible Reading

1. 2 Thessalonians 2:7-12
(The restraining work of the Holy Spirit, the revealing of the Antichrist, and the power of deception)

2. Revelation 7:9-14
(A great multitude saved out of the tribulation, washed in the blood of the Lamb)

3. Romans 8:1
(“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”)

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### Observation Questions

1. According to 2 Thessalonians 2, who or what is holding back the full expression of evil in the world, and what happens when that restraint is removed?
[[12:59]]

2. In Revelation 7, what is the identity of the great multitude standing before the throne, and what is significant about their robes?
[[21:09]]

3. What does Romans 8:1 say about condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, and how does this relate to the idea of judgment?
[[35:06]]

4. The sermon mentioned that the tribulation serves three main purposes. What are they?
[[26:07]]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The passage in 2 Thessalonians 2 describes a “restrainer” who is taken out of the way before the Antichrist is revealed. What does this suggest about the role of the church and the Holy Spirit in the world today?
[[12:59]]

2. Revelation 7 shows a multitude saved during the tribulation. What does this reveal about God’s heart for redemption, even in times of judgment?
[[21:09]]

3. The sermon emphasized that believers have already been judged and set free through Christ’s sacrifice. How does this truth affect the way Christians should view future prophetic events and times of suffering?
[[39:00]]

4. The “lie” mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2 and the sermon is rooted in the desire to be like God, independent of Him. How does this ancient deception continue to influence people today?
[[16:37]]

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### Application Questions

1. The fulfillment of past prophecies (like Christ’s birth, resurrection, and the restoration of Israel) was highlighted as proof of God’s faithfulness. How does remembering fulfilled prophecy help you trust God with your current struggles or uncertainties?
[[08:28]]

2. The tribulation is described as both a time of judgment and a time of mercy, where many will come to Christ. How does this challenge your perspective on God’s justice and grace? Does it change the way you pray for those who don’t know Jesus?
[[21:09]]

3. The sermon warned about the deceptive power of “the lie”—the idea that we can be like God or live independently from Him. Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to rely on your own wisdom or strength instead of submitting to God’s authority? What would it look like to surrender those areas?
[[16:37]]

4. The church is called the “restraining force” against evil in the world. In what practical ways can you be “salt and light” in your community this week? Is there a specific situation where you feel called to stand against darkness or injustice?
[[12:59]]

5. The sermon reminded us that our hope is not in escaping suffering, but in the finished work of Christ. When you face trials or uncertainty about the future, what helps you stay anchored in the truth of your redemption?
[[39:00]]

6. The urgency of sharing Christ was emphasized, especially in light of coming judgment and the reality that many have not yet heard the gospel. Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus, and what is one step you can take this week to share your faith with them?
[[21:09]]

7. The message closed with gratitude for the grace that sustains us and the reminder that we are redeemed, not condemned. How can you cultivate a daily habit of remembering and celebrating your redemption in Christ?
[[41:11]]

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Thank God for His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, for the hope we have in Christ, and for the grace that sustains us. Ask for boldness to share the gospel, wisdom to resist deception, and strength to be a light in a dark world.

Devotional

Day 1: The Purpose of the Tribulation—A Call to Salvation
The tribulation period is not just a time of judgment, but a profound opportunity for people from every nation and background to turn to Jesus and be saved. Even in the midst of great suffering and chaos, God’s heart is for souls to come to Him, and the Bible assures us that a multitude will respond to His call during this time. This is a reminder that God’s grace reaches even into the darkest moments, and that no one is beyond His saving power if they call upon His name. [21:09]

Revelation 7:9-14 (ESV)
After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.” Then one of the elders addressed me, saying, “Who are these, clothed in white robes, and from where have they come?” I said to him, “Sir, you know.” And he said to me, “These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”

Reflection: Who in your life seems far from God right now? Pray specifically for them today, asking God to soften their heart and give you an opportunity to share His love and hope with them.


Day 2: The Restraining Power of the Holy Spirit in the Church
The Holy Spirit, working through the church, is currently holding back the full force of evil and lawlessness in the world. As believers, we are not just passive observers but active participants in God’s plan, serving as a spiritual barrier against darkness until the time comes for the church to be taken out of the way. This truth should fill you with gratitude and a sense of responsibility, knowing that your prayers, your presence, and your faithfulness matter in God’s cosmic plan. [12:59]

2 Thessalonians 2:7-8 (ESV)
For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Only he who now restrains it will do so until he is out of the way. And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming.

Reflection: In what ways can you be more intentional this week about letting the Holy Spirit work through you to push back darkness in your home, workplace, or community?


Day 3: The Danger of Believing “The Lie”
There is a spiritual deception at work in the world—a lie that began in the Garden of Eden and continues today, convincing people that they do not need God or that they can be their own god. This delusion will reach its peak during the tribulation, but even now, many are blinded by pride, self-sufficiency, and a rejection of God’s sovereignty. It is vital to examine your own heart and remain anchored in the truth of who God is, lest you too be swept up by the spirit of the age. [17:43]

2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 (ESV)
And with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

Reflection: Is there an area in your life where you are tempted to believe a lie about God, yourself, or the world? Ask God to reveal any deception and to anchor you in His truth today.


Day 4: The Assurance of No Condemnation for Those in Christ
For those who are in Christ Jesus, there is no condemnation—no judgment or wrath awaits you, because Jesus has already taken your punishment upon Himself. This is the foundation of our faith and the source of our daily gratitude: we have been tried, found guilty, and yet fully redeemed by the blood of Jesus. Let this truth fill you with peace and joy, and remind you that your salvation is secure not by your works, but by His finished work on the cross. [41:11]

Romans 8:1 (ESV)
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Reflection: Take a moment to thank Jesus for taking your judgment and giving you His righteousness. How can you live today in the freedom and joy of knowing you are fully forgiven?


Day 5: God’s Faithfulness to Israel and the Fulfillment of His Promises
God’s dealings with Israel throughout history and in the future tribulation period reveal His faithfulness to keep His promises. Even when Israel rejected the Messiah, God’s plan did not fail; He will bring them to a place of recognition and acceptance of Jesus as Lord. This reminds us that God’s purposes cannot be thwarted, and He is always working to fulfill His word—both to nations and to individuals. [26:07]

Ezekiel 20:33-37 (ESV)
As I live, declares the Lord GOD, surely with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm and with wrath poured out I will be king over you. I will bring you out from the peoples and gather you out of the countries where you are scattered, with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, and with wrath poured out. And I will bring you into the wilderness of the peoples, and there I will enter into judgment with you face to face. As I entered into judgment with your fathers in the wilderness of the land of Egypt, so I will enter into judgment with you, declares the Lord GOD. I will make you pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant.

Reflection: Is there a promise from God’s Word that you have doubted or given up on? Ask God to renew your faith in His faithfulness and to help you trust Him to fulfill every promise in His perfect timing.

Quotes

Isn't it great to know that you're part of an organization, you're part of a, of a kingdom that is restraining darkness from doing exactly what it wants to do? We are. We are. And so there's a lot of things the enemy wants to do. God's allowing him to do a whole lot, but there's a lot of things that he wants to do, he cannot do. [00:13:48] (00:00:24 seconds) Edit Clip

God will use the Antichrist, even though he is Satan's mouthpiece, but God will use the Antichrist for delusion. He will become the lie. What is the lie? That God is not really the only God, and we are just as good as God. Now, when it comes down to it, that's the whole, that's the whole problem with a lost world. That they don't believe that God is God. [00:16:15] (00:00:33 seconds) Edit Clip

We cannot go through judgment of tribulation because the blood of Jesus removed our judgment at covering. The blood of Jesus cleanses us. We don't need to be cleansed through personal sufferings. 1 John 1 and 9, He is faithful and will forgive us of our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We have been judged. [00:36:02] (00:00:18 seconds) Edit Clip

You have, the day you got saved, you were tried and you were found guilty as charged, and you've been sentenced. The sentence, the sentence that you were sentenced to is death, separation from God. Jesus took your sentence. Right? You've got to believe this, guys. You can't just think you've got a ticket somewhere in your pocket. Jesus paid a price for your sins. [00:37:46] (00:00:33 seconds) Edit Clip

We've been redeemed. Let's use the right word. We've been redeemed. We've been justified. What does justified mean? You did it. but it's been completely wiped off. Amen? So that is the nature of our self. That is the nature of our faith. That is the foundation of our faith. [00:38:53] (00:00:22 seconds) Edit Clip

Easter says that the judgment that was placed upon Jesus is enough. I don't have to go through seven-year tribulation period to a world that shuns the cross. They say to hell with the cross and to Jesus and to all this blood stuff. And we say thank you for the cross. Thank you for Jesus. Thank you for the blood. I have been sentenced. I have been sentenced. I have been judged and I've been redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Don't ever forget it. [00:39:22] (00:00:44 seconds) Edit Clip