The queen of France summons a man whose four-line prophecy foretold her husband’s death, and whose predictions would fire Europe’s imagination for centuries to come. That story opens a reflection on the question the disciples put to Jesus on the Mount of Olives: when will the end come (Matthew 24). The sermon shows that instead of a date Jesus gives a warning about false prophets and a call to endurance, because no one knows the day or the hour. Listen if you would rather learn to live ready today than try to decode the future.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In Matthew 24:1-2 the disciples admire the temple buildings, and Jesus says not one stone will be left on another. How might these words have shaken their thinking about God and worship?
- Jesus warns of deception and persecution (Matthew 24:4-9), yet promises the gospel will be proclaimed to all nations (verse 14). What does this promise tell us about who is ultimately in control of history?
- The speaker pointed out that when Abraham reached the promised land, he found a famine there. When has obeying God turned out harder than you expect, and what helps you keep trusting Him then?
- On the Mount of Olives the speaker asked God why He does nothing and sensed Him say: "I am doing something, but you don't decide my timing." What questions about God's timing are you wrestling with today?
- How do you practically discern the truth about Jesus, given the speaker's challenge not to blindly trust other people or even your own thoughts and feelings?
- Jesus says no one knows the day or the hour, and the disciples' task is to carry on the mission. With whom and how can you share the hope of salvation in Jesus this week?
