Lesson 10- The Last Days

Read for This Week’s Study

 

Mark 12:41-44; Mark 13:1-32; Daniel 9:24-27; Daniel 7:25; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.

 

Memory Text:

 

    “ ‘Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. And then He will send His angels, and gather His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of earth to the farthest part of heaven’ ” (Mark 13:26-27).

 

 

Sabbath Afternoon:

 

Five Points:

 

1.     Prophetic Timeline: Mark 13:1-37 outlines a prophecy from Jesus about the destruction of the Jerusalem temple and extends to the end of the world and His second coming. This prophecy reflects the historicist interpretation of end-time prophecy, where events unfold through history (Mark 13:2).

 

2.     Understanding Signs: Jesus emphasized understanding the signs of the times to avoid deception. The prophecy in Mark 13 is not just a prediction but also a guide for His followers on how to prepare for future trials (Mark 13:5-6).

 

3.     Importance of Vigilance: Jesus warns His disciples to be vigilant, as the coming trials would require steadfast faith and reliance on God's guidance (Mark 13:33-37).

 

4.     The Role of the Disciples: Jesus’ teachings during this time were meant to prepare the disciples for the challenges they would face in spreading the Gospel, indicating that their mission would be filled with trials (Mark 13:9-13).

 

5.     Hope in Christ’s Return: Despite the trials and tribulations described, Jesus assures His followers of His return, which will be a time of deliverance and victory for those who remain faithful (Mark 13:26-27).

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.     What is the significance of the prophecy about the destruction of the Jerusalem temple in understanding end-time events?

 

o    Answer: The prophecy serves as a dual fulfillment, where the destruction of Jerusalem is a foreshadowing of the greater tribulation and final events leading to Christ's second coming, urging believers to recognize the signs of the times.

 

2.     How can we avoid being deceived by false prophets and teachings in the last days?

 

o    Answer: By staying grounded in the teachings of Jesus and the Scriptures, continually seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and being aware of the signs Jesus warned about in Mark 13.

 

3.     Why is it important to remain vigilant in our spiritual life, especially in the context of end-time prophecy?

 

o    Answer: Vigilance is crucial because it prepares us to stand firm in faith during trials and ensures we are not caught unprepared when Christ returns.

 

 

 

Sunday: Two Little Coins in the Offering

 

Five Points:

 

1.     The Widow's Offering: The widow’s offering, though small in monetary value, was praised by Jesus because it was given out of her poverty and was all she had (Mark 12:42-44).

 

2.     Heart Over Wealth: Jesus highlighted that God values the heart and intent behind the giving more than the amount. The widow’s offering demonstrated complete trust in God’s provision (Mark 12:44).

 

3.     Faithfulness in Giving: This story teaches that our faithfulness in giving should not be influenced by the actions of others, including corrupt leaders. True giving is an act of worship and gratitude to God (Mark 12:41-44).

 

4.     Contrast with the Rich: The rich gave out of their abundance, meaning their giving was not sacrificial. The widow’s giving, though small, was sacrificial and therefore more valuable in God's eyes (Mark 12:43-44).

 

5.     Stewardship: The lesson emphasizes the principle of stewardship, where our giving reflects our trust in God rather than the amount we give (2 Corinthians 9:7).

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.     Why did Jesus value the widow’s offering more than the large sums given by the rich?

 

o    Answer: Jesus valued the widow's offering more because it was given out of her poverty, showing her complete trust and dependence on God, while the rich gave from their surplus, which required no real sacrifice.

 

2.     How can we apply the lesson of the widow’s offering in our own giving to God’s work?

 

o    Answer: We can apply this lesson by giving with a sincere heart, focusing on our intent and willingness to sacrifice rather than the amount, and trusting that God values the spirit of our giving.

 

3.     What does this story teach us about how God views our contributions to His work?

 

o    Answer: God views our contributions based on the heart and intent behind them rather than the monetary value. He values sacrificial giving that demonstrates faith and dependence on Him.

 

 

 

 

Monday: Not One Stone on Another

 

Five Points:

 

1.     Destruction of the Temple: Jesus predicts the complete destruction of the Jerusalem temple, which was a significant prophecy, as the temple was a magnificent structure and central to Jewish worship (Mark 13:2).

 

2.     Disciples' Question: The disciples were astonished by Jesus’ prediction and asked for the timing and signs of this event, indicating their concern and curiosity about future events (Mark 13:4).

 

3.     Jesus’ Response: Instead of focusing solely on the destruction of the temple, Jesus warned the disciples about the trials they would face in their ministry, including persecution and deception (Mark 13:5-8).

 

4.     Perseverance in Trials: Jesus emphasized that the disciples would face persecution for His name's sake but assured them that the Holy Spirit would give them the words to speak and the strength to endure (Mark 13:11).

 

5.     Faith Amidst Tribulation: The prophecy served as a reminder that following Jesus would not be easy, but perseverance would lead to salvation, highlighting the need for faith in difficult times (Mark 13:13).

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.     Why did Jesus focus on the trials the disciples would face rather than just the destruction of the temple?

 

o    Answer: Jesus focused on the trials to prepare the disciples for the challenges they would encounter in spreading the Gospel, teaching them to rely on God’s guidance and remain faithful despite persecution.

 

2.     How does the prophecy about the temple's destruction relate to the end times?

 

o    Answer: The prophecy serves as a dual application, foreshadowing the destruction of Jerusalem and also pointing to the events leading up to the end times, encouraging believers to recognize the signs and remain vigilant.

 

3.     What lessons can we learn from Jesus’ warning about persecution for today’s Christian life?

 

o    Answer: We learn that following Christ may lead to trials and persecution, but with faith and reliance on the Holy Spirit, we can endure and remain steadfast in our mission.

 

 

 

 

Tuesday: The Abomination of Desolation

 

Five Points:

 

1.     Abomination of Desolation: Jesus refers to the “abomination of desolation” as a sign for His followers to flee Jerusalem, pointing them to the prophecy in Daniel (Mark 13:14; Daniel 9:27).

 

2.     Historical Fulfillment: The abomination likely refers to the Roman standards being set up in Jerusalem during its siege, an event that signaled the city’s impending destruction (Luke 21:20).

 

3.     Timing and Fulfillment: The prophecy was fulfilled when the Roman general Titus destroyed Jerusalem in A.D. 70, which also served as a warning to early Christians to flee the city before its fall (Mark 13:15-18).

 

4.     Connection to the Messiah: The prophecy in Daniel 9:26-27 connects the treatment of the Messiah (Jesus) with the subsequent desolation of Jerusalem, showing the consequences of rejecting Christ.

 

5.     Call to Heed Prophecy: Jesus’ reference to the prophecy serves as a reminder to take God’s warnings seriously and act upon them, just as the early Christians did by fleeing Jerusalem (Matthew 24:15-16).

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.     What is the significance of the “abomination of desolation” in understanding the destruction of Jerusalem?

 

o    Answer: The “abomination of desolation” serves as a specific sign for the believers in Jerusalem to flee the city, fulfilling the prophecy and highlighting the importance of recognizing and responding to God’s warnings.

 

2.     How does the fulfillment of this prophecy strengthen our trust in Jesus’ words?

 

o    Answer: The accurate fulfillment of Jesus’ prediction about the destruction of Jerusalem demonstrates the reliability of His words and reinforces our trust in the prophecies concerning the end times.

 

3.     What lessons can we learn from the early Christians' response to the “abomination of desolation”?

 

o    Answer: We learn the importance of being attentive to God’s warnings and acting in faith, even when it requires making difficult decisions, as obedience leads to protection and survival.

 

 

 

 

Wednesday: The Great Tribulation

 

Five Points:

 

1.     Great Tribulation: Jesus speaks of a time of great tribulation that would be unparalleled in history, marking a period of intense persecution for God’s people (Mark 13:19).

 

2.     Historical Context: This tribulation refers to the persecution during the 1,260 years of papal dominance, where many faithful Christians were martyred for their beliefs (Daniel 7:25; Revelation 12:6).

 

3.     God’s Mercy: Jesus mentions that the days of tribulation would be shortened for the sake of the elect, showing God’s mercy and protection over His people (Mark 13:20).

 

4.     False Prophets and Christs: Jesus warns of false prophets and false christs who would arise during and after the tribulation, deceiving many if possible (Mark 13:22).

 

5.     Call for Discernment: The warning about false prophets emphasizes the need for discernment and steadfastness in faith, as deception would be rampant during the end times (Mark 13:23).

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.     What does the “great tribulation” represent, and how does it relate to Christian history?

 

o    Answer: The “great tribulation” represents the intense persecution of Christians during the Dark Ages, especially under the papal system, marking a significant period of suffering for God’s people in history.

 

2.     How does Jesus’ promise to shorten the days of tribulation reflect God’s care for His people?

 

o    Answer: The promise to shorten the days shows God’s mercy and care, ensuring that His people are not overwhelmed by the trials and that their faith is preserved during difficult times.

 

3.     Why is it important to be aware of false prophets and false christs in the end times?

 

o    Answer: Awareness is crucial because deception will be widespread, and only those who are grounded in God’s Word and discernment will be able to recognize and resist these false teachings.

 

 

 

 

Thursday: The Coming of the Son of Man

 

Five Points:

 

1.     Second Coming: Jesus describes His second coming as a visible and glorious event, where He will return with great power and glory, accompanied by the angels (Mark 13:26).

 

2.     Gathering of the Elect: At His coming, the angels will gather the elect from the four corners of the earth, signifying the deliverance and salvation of God’s people (Mark 13:27).

 

3.     Certainty of His Return: Jesus assures His disciples of the certainty of His return, encouraging them to stay vigilant and prepared for this climactic event (Mark 13:29-31).

 

4.     Signs of the Times: Jesus instructs His followers to watch for the signs that precede His coming, likening them to the budding of a fig tree, which signals the approach of summer (Mark 13:28).

 

5.     Be Prepared: The lesson emphasizes the need for readiness, as the exact time of Jesus’ return is unknown, but the signs indicate that it is near (Mark 13:32-33).

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.     How does Jesus’ description of His second coming differ from His first advent?

 

o    Answer: Jesus’ second coming will be a glorious and public event, in stark contrast to His first advent, which was humble and relatively unnoticed, signifying the fulfillment of His promise to return and bring justice.

 

2.     Why is it important to stay vigilant and watch for the signs of Jesus’ return?

 

o    Answer: Vigilance is important because it keeps us spiritually prepared and aware of the times, ensuring that we are not caught off guard when Jesus returns.

 

3.     What does the gathering of the elect signify for believers today?

 

o    Answer: The gathering of the elect signifies the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to deliver His people, providing hope and assurance that no matter the trials faced, salvation is certain for the faithful.

 

 

Friday: Further Thought

 

Points for Reflection:

 

1.     Review of the Week: Reflect on the key events described by Jesus in Mark 13, from the destruction of the temple to the signs of His return. Consider how these events have shaped Christian understanding of end-time prophecy.

 

2.     Personal Application: Think about the lessons learned this week about faith, vigilance, and readiness for Christ’s return. How can these lessons influence your daily walk with God?

 

3.     Discussion on Tribulation: Engage in a deeper discussion about the great tribulation and its historical and future significance. How can we find comfort in Jesus’ promise to shorten those days for the sake of the elect?

 

4.     Hope in the Second Coming: Reflect on the hope and anticipation of Jesus’ return. How does the certainty of His coming influence your perspective on current world events and personal challenges?

 

5.     Encouragement for the Week: Encourage one another to remain faithful and vigilant as we await the return of our Lord. Share practical ways to stay spiritually prepared and support each other in the faith.

 

DISCUSSION QUESTION:

 

1. It’s one thing to give to the Lord’s work. It’s another to give sacrificially. What’s the difference, and why is that difference important?

 

• Difference: Giving to the Lord’s work can often be done out of abundance or surplus, meaning it doesn’t significantly impact our lifestyle or resources. Sacrificial giving, on the other hand, means giving in a way that requires personal sacrifice, where the giver might forgo something important or necessary to support God’s work.
• Importance: The difference is important because sacrificial giving demonstrates a deeper level of trust and commitment to God. It shows that the giver values God’s work more than their own comfort or needs. This kind of giving reflects true faith and devotion, as it prioritizes God above all else, much like the widow who gave her last two coins.

 

2. Why did God not prevent the persecution of His people through the centuries and in today’s world? How does the great controversy motif help us understand, somewhat, why persecution exists?

 

• Why Persecution Exists: God allows persecution as part of the great controversy between good and evil. This ongoing conflict is a result of the rebellion of Satan against God’s government. Persecution is a consequence of this rebellion and the presence of sin in the world.
• Great Controversy Motif: The great controversy motif helps us understand that persecution is not caused by God but is a result of the free will given to beings and the ongoing battle between Christ and Satan. Through persecution, the faith of believers is tested and refined, and their steadfastness serves as a testimony to the power of God’s grace. Ultimately, God will bring justice, and the faithful will be rewarded in the end.

 

3. What signs of Christ’s coming especially stand out to you in the present world?

 

• Answer: Signs of Christ’s coming that stand out today include the increasing natural disasters, widespread moral decay, global conflicts, and the growing secularization of society. Additionally, the rise of false teachings and the diminishing respect for biblical principles are strong indicators. The spread of the Gospel to all nations, despite persecution and challenges, also stands out as a significant sign that Christ’s return is near.

 

4. Think about the state of the dead and the fact that the dead sleep until Christ returns. People close their eyes in death, and what is the very next thing they know? How does this idea help us see how, for each person individually, the second coming of Christ is always very near?

 

• Answer: The concept of death as a sleep means that when a person dies, they are unconscious and unaware of the passage of time. The very next moment they will experience is the resurrection at Christ’s second coming. This understanding emphasizes that, for each individual, the second coming is indeed very near—just as near as the moment they close their eyes in death. It provides comfort and urgency, knowing that regardless of when Christ returns, His coming will be the next conscious experience for those who have died. This perspective encourages us to live in readiness and faithfulness, knowing that our reunion with Christ is imminent.