SESSION 4
Trust God’s Timing
Question 1:
When have you seen for yourself that “timing is everything”?
THE POINT
Jesus is certain to return even though we don’t know exactly when.
THE PASSAGE
Matthew 24:32-41
THE BIBLE MEETS LIFE
Is your timing ever a bit off? On one of my first international mission trips to Africa, I had a major case of jet lag. My sense of timing was completely off. My sleeping patterns were so off that my days and nights were mixed up. It was midnight, but it felt like morning to me.
When it comes to Christ’s return, it often feels like our timing is off. People see a political leader causing havoc and wonder if he is the antichrist. Sometimes a heavy season of wars, earthquakes, or disasters have some believers absolutely convinced that Jesus’ second coming is just around the corner. Unfortunately, church history is littered with a long line of “misfires” about Christ’s return. Some of these misfires are created by heretical teachers hoping to gain a following. On other occasions, a misfire occurs because well-meaning believers get caught up in their zeal about end times and misread contemporary events.
What did Jesus have to say about the timing of His return? The Lord addressed this in Matthew 24, a passage we will examine as we continue looking into what Jesus said about the end days.
MATTHEW 24:32-33
32 “Learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near.
33 In the same way, when you see all these things, recognize that he is near—at the door.
Having described how the turbulent end of the age will look, Jesus closed this section of His discourse with three practical admonitions built around three illustrations: a fig tree, Noah, and a thief in the night. Jesus began with a parable about a fig tree, using it as a transition from describing what the end will be like to answering the disciples’ initial question: “Tell us, when will these things happen?” (Matt. 24:3).
As we consider the point Jesus was making with the fig tree, we also should remember to let the parable stand on its own. With parables, we may be tempted to unnecessarily push their details and add elements that Jesus never intended. Some have tried to make the fig tree out to be a complicated analogy rather than a simple point. For example, some people have said the fig tree represented the nation of Israel. The Old Testament prophets Jeremiah and Hosea compared Israel with a fig tree (Jer. 24:3-10; Hos. 9:10); therefore, some assume Jesus’ reference to the fig tree alluded to the rebirth of the nation of Israel that began on May 14, 1948.
However, it is important that we learn to let the text speak for itself. Jesus made no specific reference contextually to the nation of Israel. We should also not approach Bible interpretation attempting to impose on it a structure that tries to fit everything within our own system of beliefs; we should let the Bible speak for itself. When you look at the story in its proper context, the lesson is quite clear.
Observers of nature knew just what Jesus was talking about. Fig trees were common in Israel. The fig tree puts out its leaves and green fruit in the late spring, reminding everyone “that summer is near.” Therefore, Christ was simply assuring believers that although they cannot know the specific time of His return, they can know the general time by watching the signs.
Christ began the parable by saying, “Learn this lesson from the fig tree.” The word for learn in this setting means to accept the truth of a teaching and to seek to apply it to your life. The word is sometimes used of something that becomes a lifelong habit. Christ wanted His disciples to know the lesson of the fig tree and to apply it in their inmost being.
The point of the fig tree is that we can get a general idea that Jesus’ return is soon. “When you see all these things, recognize that he is near—at the door.” When Christ gets ready to return, the best news is that Jesus Himself will be near. The divine King will be right at the door, eager to come in.
When the end is near, the Bible’s prophetic passages will fit exactly into the history of that day. A common problem with each generation of believers is the temptation to force end times prophecies into the events of their day. A wise observer of history could understand that when the preceding signs occur, that means that Christ’s return is near, even though the specific time will be a mystery.
There is some debate as to the specific meaning of the phrase all these things in verse 33. Some believe it referred specifically to the destruction of Jerusalem. A more likely interpretation is that Christ was referring to the signs of His second coming He already mentioned in verse 24. Regardless of the precise meaning, the hope of Christ’s return will strengthen believers’ trust in God amidst the difficulties of life.
Question 2:
How can the uncertainty of God’s timing sometimes challenge our faith?
MATTHEW 24:34-35
34 Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things take place.
35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.
KEY WORDS: This generation (v. 34)—Usually refers to a contemporary period of time and the major events occurring during the normal lifespan of a person.
Jesus put the disciples on alert to the importance of His next statement by declaring, “Truly I tell you.” He wanted them to pay close attention to His next statement: “This generation will certainly not pass away until all these things take place.” But who exactly was included in this generation?
Some students of Scripture believe this generation referred to the people who rejected Christ when He was on earth. Others believe that, in light of other Matthew 24 references to the destruction of the temple, Jesus was referring to the generation that would be alive in 70 AD. In more recent times, however, some have contended that this generation refers to the people who will be alive when the events of Matthew 24–25 tied to the second coming of Christ occur.
It is quite possible Jesus had in mind both the destruction of the temple and the events preceding His return. Earlier, in verse 3, the disciples’ question was about both events. The events mentioned in verses 4-20 point to the destruction of the temple, but the events described in verses 21-31 are more cataclysmic and refer to the time of Christ’s return.
Skeptics have alleged that Christ made a mistake. They assume the generation to whom Jesus was talking passed away before all the events of verses 4-31 occurred. Some assume that, since Jesus said in verse 36 that even He did not know the time of His coming, then maybe He was offering his best guess. They erroneously claim that Jesus misfired with His “guess” about the timing of His return. This spurious reasoning misses both Christ’s point and the authority of Scripture. If Jesus were wrong about His second coming, then He easily could be wrong about all His other teachings.
However, Jesus gave a strong statement of His self-understanding and the reliability of His teaching. Christ underscored His own faithfulness when He said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” Christ had emphasized this truth earlier in His Sermon on the Mount: “For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or one stroke of a letter will pass away from the law until all things are accomplished” (5:18). Jesus’ words are also reminiscent of Isaiah 40:8: “The grass withers, the flowers fade, but the word of our God remains forever.”
It is impossible to alter or negate what God has said in His Word. We would do well to remember that Jesus’ words are firmer than earth’s bedrock and as sound as the foundations of heaven (Matt. 7:24-27). Nothing is more certain than Christ’s words.
Whatever is touched by sin will pass away, but no sin or imperfection is to be found in the Word of God. “The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in an earthen furnace, purified seven times” (Ps. 12:6). It will remain pure and perfect because “the Scripture cannot be broken” (John 10:35). God’s Word will endure even after “heaven and earth … pass away.”
Question 3:
When has God’s Word proven true in your life?
MATTHEW 24:36-41
36 “Now concerning that day and hour no one knows—neither the angels of heaven nor the Son—except the Father alone.
37 As the days of Noah were, so the coming of the Son of Man will be.
38 For in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah boarded the ark.
39 They didn’t know until the flood came and swept them all away. This is the way the coming of the Son of Man will be.
40 Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left.
41 Two women will be grinding grain with a hand mill; one will be taken and one left.
KEY WORDS: The days of Noah (v. 37)—Refers to the state of humanity before the time of Noah and the flood (Gen. 6). People were ignorant of the coming judgment.
Verse 36, Jesus’ teaching about the time of His return, might be the most well-known verse in the Olivet Discourse. This verse serves as a strong reminder to deter us from setting specific dates for the second coming of Christ. Unfortunately, this word from Jesus goes against all the curious leanings of humanity. We are inclined to want to know when something will come to pass. The larger the event, the more interested we become in its occurrence. We want to know all the specifics and details!
Question 4:
In what ways have you seen people become sidetracked by discussion of the end times?
Everything Jesus has just said up to this point of His discourse surely caused His disciples to want to try to put all the pieces together. When Christ said “no one knows” the day or the hour, it was a reminder that there are some things that we just do not need to know. If we knew every detail of God’s plan, we very likely would go off our “spiritual game.” Those missing details were meant to keep us alert and better prepared.
Jesus illustrated the attitude of nonbelievers during the end of the age by using one of the most familiar accounts from the Old Testament: that of Noah. “The days of Noah” were one of the darkest periods in human history. The people’s “wickedness” however, would be short-lived (Gen. 6:5-7). God’s judgment came in force, but it did not come without warning. The people of Noah’s time had many years to observe Noah building the ark. They also had plenty of time to hear Noah’s testimony concerning the coming judgment (2 Pet. 2:5). But the people did not recognize the warning until it was too late. “They didn’t know until the flood came and swept them all away.”
Because no one paid any attention, they were caught unprepared. “They were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage”; in other words, they went about their daily routine without any regard for the judgment headed their way. Judgments are most terrible for those who are unsuspecting.
People will have the same mindset when Christ returns. We should never become so immersed in this present time and our present lives that we forget about eternity. We can easily allow our focus on worldly matters to distract us from spiritual matters. That is exactly what happened to the people in Noah’s day, and Jesus’ words warn us not to follow their example. Those who heed Jesus’ warnings and watch for the signs will be saved, but those who ignore the warnings will find sudden judgment before they realize what is happening.
Jesus illustrated His point by describing some people who “will be taken” while others will be left. Some apply this to a rapture of the church—a “secret snatching” of all believers which will precede a time of great tribulation. Others view this as the sudden judgment that will come upon unbelievers at the return of Christ. They maintain that unbelievers will be taken and removed, just as the unrighteous were taken and swept away in the flood. This passage makes one thing clear: the end times will mean a clear separation between believers and unbelievers. A “revealing” aspect will be connected to the Lord’s return. When Christ comes back, He will suddenly disclose people’s hearts and reveal who they really are.
The moment Christ comes for His people, some people will be committed believers and others will be unbelievers. These people can have the closest of relationships as husbands and wives or best friends, but they will be eternally separated from each other if one has a relationship with Christ and the other doesn’t. One will face judgment and condemnation, and the other will rest securely in the glory and presence of Christ. Until that unknown moment arrives, let’s do all we can to see that others will join us in Christ’s presence forever.
Question 5:
How can our attitudes and actions express trust in God’s timing?
ENGAGE
Choose a phrase below that best describes your current state of readiness for the return of Jesus.
Packed suitcaseClockA nap
An incomplete puzzleA bucket listBinoculars
On a sheet of paper, write a brief reason why this phrase fits you best.
LIVE IT OUT
Realize. Giving His followers signs to watch for regarding His return was a loving and gracious thing for Jesus to do. Spend a few moments in prayer thanking Him for His concern for you.
Memorize. Memorize Matthew 24:36: “Now concerning that day and hour no one knows—neither the angels of heaven nor the Son—except the Father alone.” Allow this truth to help you trust God with what you can never know.
React. We don’t know when Jesus will return, but we can do our best to be ready for His return. Make a list of things you need to do in order to prepare for the return of Jes [Lifeway Adults (NaN). (p. 130). Bible Studies for Life: Senior Adult Personal Study Guide - CSB - Spring 2022. Lifeway Press. Retrieved from https://read.lifeway.com]
Trust God’s Timing
Question 1:
When have you seen for yourself that “timing is everything”?
THE POINT
Jesus is certain to return even though we don’t know exactly when.
THE PASSAGE
Matthew 24:32-41
THE BIBLE MEETS LIFE
Is your timing ever a bit off? On one of my first international mission trips to Africa, I had a major case of jet lag. My sense of timing was completely off. My sleeping patterns were so off that my days and nights were mixed up. It was midnight, but it felt like morning to me.
When it comes to Christ’s return, it often feels like our timing is off. People see a political leader causing havoc and wonder if he is the antichrist. Sometimes a heavy season of wars, earthquakes, or disasters have some believers absolutely convinced that Jesus’ second coming is just around the corner. Unfortunately, church history is littered with a long line of “misfires” about Christ’s return. Some of these misfires are created by heretical teachers hoping to gain a following. On other occasions, a misfire occurs because well-meaning believers get caught up in their zeal about end times and misread contemporary events.
What did Jesus have to say about the timing of His return? The Lord addressed this in Matthew 24, a passage we will examine as we continue looking into what Jesus said about the end days.
MATTHEW 24:32-33
32 “Learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near.
33 In the same way, when you see all these things, recognize that he is near—at the door.
Having described how the turbulent end of the age will look, Jesus closed this section of His discourse with three practical admonitions built around three illustrations: a fig tree, Noah, and a thief in the night. Jesus began with a parable about a fig tree, using it as a transition from describing what the end will be like to answering the disciples’ initial question: “Tell us, when will these things happen?” (Matt. 24:3).
As we consider the point Jesus was making with the fig tree, we also should remember to let the parable stand on its own. With parables, we may be tempted to unnecessarily push their details and add elements that Jesus never intended. Some have tried to make the fig tree out to be a complicated analogy rather than a simple point. For example, some people have said the fig tree represented the nation of Israel. The Old Testament prophets Jeremiah and Hosea compared Israel with a fig tree (Jer. 24:3-10; Hos. 9:10); therefore, some assume Jesus’ reference to the fig tree alluded to the rebirth of the nation of Israel that began on May 14, 1948.
However, it is important that we learn to let the text speak for itself. Jesus made no specific reference contextually to the nation of Israel. We should also not approach Bible interpretation attempting to impose on it a structure that tries to fit everything within our own system of beliefs; we should let the Bible speak for itself. When you look at the story in its proper context, the lesson is quite clear.
Observers of nature knew just what Jesus was talking about. Fig trees were common in Israel. The fig tree puts out its leaves and green fruit in the late spring, reminding everyone “that summer is near.” Therefore, Christ was simply assuring believers that although they cannot know the specific time of His return, they can know the general time by watching the signs.
Christ began the parable by saying, “Learn this lesson from the fig tree.” The word for learn in this setting means to accept the truth of a teaching and to seek to apply it to your life. The word is sometimes used of something that becomes a lifelong habit. Christ wanted His disciples to know the lesson of the fig tree and to apply it in their inmost being.
The point of the fig tree is that we can get a general idea that Jesus’ return is soon. “When you see all these things, recognize that he is near—at the door.” When Christ gets ready to return, the best news is that Jesus Himself will be near. The divine King will be right at the door, eager to come in.
When the end is near, the Bible’s prophetic passages will fit exactly into the history of that day. A common problem with each generation of believers is the temptation to force end times prophecies into the events of their day. A wise observer of history could understand that when the preceding signs occur, that means that Christ’s return is near, even though the specific time will be a mystery.
There is some debate as to the specific meaning of the phrase all these things in verse 33. Some believe it referred specifically to the destruction of Jerusalem. A more likely interpretation is that Christ was referring to the signs of His second coming He already mentioned in verse 24. Regardless of the precise meaning, the hope of Christ’s return will strengthen believers’ trust in God amidst the difficulties of life.
Question 2:
How can the uncertainty of God’s timing sometimes challenge our faith?
MATTHEW 24:34-35
34 Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things take place.
35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.
KEY WORDS: This generation (v. 34)—Usually refers to a contemporary period of time and the major events occurring during the normal lifespan of a person.
Jesus put the disciples on alert to the importance of His next statement by declaring, “Truly I tell you.” He wanted them to pay close attention to His next statement: “This generation will certainly not pass away until all these things take place.” But who exactly was included in this generation?
Some students of Scripture believe this generation referred to the people who rejected Christ when He was on earth. Others believe that, in light of other Matthew 24 references to the destruction of the temple, Jesus was referring to the generation that would be alive in 70 AD. In more recent times, however, some have contended that this generation refers to the people who will be alive when the events of Matthew 24–25 tied to the second coming of Christ occur.
It is quite possible Jesus had in mind both the destruction of the temple and the events preceding His return. Earlier, in verse 3, the disciples’ question was about both events. The events mentioned in verses 4-20 point to the destruction of the temple, but the events described in verses 21-31 are more cataclysmic and refer to the time of Christ’s return.
Skeptics have alleged that Christ made a mistake. They assume the generation to whom Jesus was talking passed away before all the events of verses 4-31 occurred. Some assume that, since Jesus said in verse 36 that even He did not know the time of His coming, then maybe He was offering his best guess. They erroneously claim that Jesus misfired with His “guess” about the timing of His return. This spurious reasoning misses both Christ’s point and the authority of Scripture. If Jesus were wrong about His second coming, then He easily could be wrong about all His other teachings.
However, Jesus gave a strong statement of His self-understanding and the reliability of His teaching. Christ underscored His own faithfulness when He said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” Christ had emphasized this truth earlier in His Sermon on the Mount: “For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or one stroke of a letter will pass away from the law until all things are accomplished” (5:18). Jesus’ words are also reminiscent of Isaiah 40:8: “The grass withers, the flowers fade, but the word of our God remains forever.”
It is impossible to alter or negate what God has said in His Word. We would do well to remember that Jesus’ words are firmer than earth’s bedrock and as sound as the foundations of heaven (Matt. 7:24-27). Nothing is more certain than Christ’s words.
Whatever is touched by sin will pass away, but no sin or imperfection is to be found in the Word of God. “The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in an earthen furnace, purified seven times” (Ps. 12:6). It will remain pure and perfect because “the Scripture cannot be broken” (John 10:35). God’s Word will endure even after “heaven and earth … pass away.”
Question 3:
When has God’s Word proven true in your life?
MATTHEW 24:36-41
36 “Now concerning that day and hour no one knows—neither the angels of heaven nor the Son—except the Father alone.
37 As the days of Noah were, so the coming of the Son of Man will be.
38 For in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah boarded the ark.
39 They didn’t know until the flood came and swept them all away. This is the way the coming of the Son of Man will be.
40 Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left.
41 Two women will be grinding grain with a hand mill; one will be taken and one left.
KEY WORDS: The days of Noah (v. 37)—Refers to the state of humanity before the time of Noah and the flood (Gen. 6). People were ignorant of the coming judgment.
Verse 36, Jesus’ teaching about the time of His return, might be the most well-known verse in the Olivet Discourse. This verse serves as a strong reminder to deter us from setting specific dates for the second coming of Christ. Unfortunately, this word from Jesus goes against all the curious leanings of humanity. We are inclined to want to know when something will come to pass. The larger the event, the more interested we become in its occurrence. We want to know all the specifics and details!
Question 4:
In what ways have you seen people become sidetracked by discussion of the end times?
Everything Jesus has just said up to this point of His discourse surely caused His disciples to want to try to put all the pieces together. When Christ said “no one knows” the day or the hour, it was a reminder that there are some things that we just do not need to know. If we knew every detail of God’s plan, we very likely would go off our “spiritual game.” Those missing details were meant to keep us alert and better prepared.
Jesus illustrated the attitude of nonbelievers during the end of the age by using one of the most familiar accounts from the Old Testament: that of Noah. “The days of Noah” were one of the darkest periods in human history. The people’s “wickedness” however, would be short-lived (Gen. 6:5-7). God’s judgment came in force, but it did not come without warning. The people of Noah’s time had many years to observe Noah building the ark. They also had plenty of time to hear Noah’s testimony concerning the coming judgment (2 Pet. 2:5). But the people did not recognize the warning until it was too late. “They didn’t know until the flood came and swept them all away.”
Because no one paid any attention, they were caught unprepared. “They were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage”; in other words, they went about their daily routine without any regard for the judgment headed their way. Judgments are most terrible for those who are unsuspecting.
People will have the same mindset when Christ returns. We should never become so immersed in this present time and our present lives that we forget about eternity. We can easily allow our focus on worldly matters to distract us from spiritual matters. That is exactly what happened to the people in Noah’s day, and Jesus’ words warn us not to follow their example. Those who heed Jesus’ warnings and watch for the signs will be saved, but those who ignore the warnings will find sudden judgment before they realize what is happening.
Jesus illustrated His point by describing some people who “will be taken” while others will be left. Some apply this to a rapture of the church—a “secret snatching” of all believers which will precede a time of great tribulation. Others view this as the sudden judgment that will come upon unbelievers at the return of Christ. They maintain that unbelievers will be taken and removed, just as the unrighteous were taken and swept away in the flood. This passage makes one thing clear: the end times will mean a clear separation between believers and unbelievers. A “revealing” aspect will be connected to the Lord’s return. When Christ comes back, He will suddenly disclose people’s hearts and reveal who they really are.
The moment Christ comes for His people, some people will be committed believers and others will be unbelievers. These people can have the closest of relationships as husbands and wives or best friends, but they will be eternally separated from each other if one has a relationship with Christ and the other doesn’t. One will face judgment and condemnation, and the other will rest securely in the glory and presence of Christ. Until that unknown moment arrives, let’s do all we can to see that others will join us in Christ’s presence forever.
Question 5:
How can our attitudes and actions express trust in God’s timing?
ENGAGE
Choose a phrase below that best describes your current state of readiness for the return of Jesus.
Packed suitcaseClockA nap
An incomplete puzzleA bucket listBinoculars
On a sheet of paper, write a brief reason why this phrase fits you best.
LIVE IT OUT
Realize. Giving His followers signs to watch for regarding His return was a loving and gracious thing for Jesus to do. Spend a few moments in prayer thanking Him for His concern for you.
Memorize. Memorize Matthew 24:36: “Now concerning that day and hour no one knows—neither the angels of heaven nor the Son—except the Father alone.” Allow this truth to help you trust God with what you can never know.
React. We don’t know when Jesus will return, but we can do our best to be ready for His return. Make a list of things you need to do in order to prepare for the return of Jes [Lifeway Adults (NaN). (p. 130). Bible Studies for Life: Senior Adult Personal Study Guide - CSB - Spring 2022. Lifeway Press. Retrieved from https://read.lifeway.com]