Introduction

1. The words of Jesus in Matthew 24-25 are given by Jesus from the Mount of Olives just a few days before his crucifixion.

2. His words are a response to questions raised by the disciples in 24:3.

3. Matthew 24:34 is a key verse to understanding his answers.

4. Being ready for the Lord’s return is the important message (24:44).

Discussion

I. The time of the 2nd Coming of Christ is not known.

A. Only God knows of that day and hour. (24:36; Mark 13:32)

B. The days of Noah before the flood serve as an example of the 2nd coming of Christ. (24:37-39)

C. There will be no warning before his return. (24:40-41; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-5:3; 1 Corinthians 15:51; 2 Peter 3:10)

D. What sort of people should we be? (2 Peter 3:11-12)

II. We should be people of:

A. Character.

The evil servant will behave as though the coming of Christ is delayed. (24:45-51)

B. Preparation.

The unprepared will expect someone else to supply their needs. (25:1-13)

C. Hard work.

The do nothing person is slothful. (25:14-30)

D. Compassion.

In as much as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren.... (25:40)

What will be my fate at that day and hour?

No Character (24:51) Character: Blessed (24:46)

No Preparation (25:12) Prepared: Went in with him (25:10)

No Work (25:30) Work: Well done (25:23)

No Compassion (25:41) Compassion: Inherit the Kingdom (25:34)