The triumphal entry actually speaks to the end of all things that is to come. We are drawn into the end game with Jesus as Pastor Matt brings the message from Luke 12:54-59; 21:5-38.
SERMON OUTLINE
“Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.” (Luke 21:31)
The Time and the End (Luke 21:5-11)
- The time of destruction
- The end of all things
Persecution and Perseverance (Luke 21:12-19)
- Persecution
- Testimony
- Perseverance
Two Ends: Jerusalem and Human History (Luke 21:20-33)
- Jerusalem’s destruction in AD 70: a sign of the end
- Christ’s return at the end of history: the end of all signs
The Calling of the Christian in Light of the Times and the End (Luke 21:34-36)
- Be careful
- Be watchful
- Be prayerful
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- When have you been most concerned about the end of the world? Why?
- We conclude our “Crossroads” series with Jesus’ teaching in Luke 21:5-38. Begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you as you study His word. Then read that passage out loud.
- His disciples comment about the glory of the Temple, but Jesus reminds them it will not last. How does Jesus’ words in 21:5-6 relate to His words in 19:41-44)?
- This passage is difficult to understand. However, if we approach it in sections, it becomes easier. What is Jesus’ description of the coming end in 21:7-11 and what is the main point Jesus wants the disciples to understand?
- Now, look at 21:12-19. What does Jesus say will happen to the disciples before the time of destruction? What is Jesus’ main exhortation to His hearers?
- The next section (21:20-33) addresses the future, both in terms of the destruction of Jerusalem (21:20-24) and the vindication of Christ (21:25-28). What does Jesus say about the pending destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple (21:20-24), which occurred in AD 70 before Luke wrote his Gospel?
- What would you say is the main point of Jesus’ words in 21:25-28?
- How would this teaching affect both Jesus’ hearers and the first-century readers of Luke’s Gospel? How does it affect you?
- Verses 29-33 affirm the call to watchfulness (see also verse 8 & 36) through the use of natural imagery. That leads into specific exhortations for Jesus’ disciples in verses 34-36. What are the exhortations and how does that apply to us today?
- Background: Verse 32 is often debated. The most likely meaning is that the generation of Jesus’ time would see the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple by the Romans and see it as a confirming sign of Jesus’ words about the future.
- Identify one way that God is speaking to you personally through this study. If you’re on your own, write it down and share it with someone later. If you are with a small group, discuss this together.