Slideshow image

There’s a difference between UNDERSTANDING the TIMES and PREDICTING the FUTURE.  When reading Scripture we must to be careful not to interpret prophecy literally or history figuratively.

Mark 13:9-15 — The passage balances two IMPERATIVES: Disciples must resist both DECEPTION and DESPAIR, holding firm regardless of circumstances. The passage moves from personal persecution to cosmic upheaval, yet maintains that these warnings remain relevant wherever evil follows the pattern Jesus describes.

The Abomination of Desolation

  • The “abomination of desolation” is closely tied to the Roman desecration and destruction of Jerusalem.
  • Jesus is warning disciples about an imminent historical catastrophe.

 Already/Not Yet — Day of the Lord & Armageddon

  • The DAY of the LORD
    • The day of the Lord is past, for Christ has died and Christ has risen.
    • The day of the Lord is present, for Christ makes himself to reign on this earth through the preaching of the gospel.
    • The day of the Lord is future, for Christ will come again.
  • ARMAGEDDON
    • Armageddon is Calvary.
    • Armageddon is every conquest of the gospel as it shines into this darkened world.
    • Armageddon will be the final putting down of this evil age and its deceitful master.

 PERSECUTION is the work of the devil: You did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my witness, my faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells (Revelation 2:13, RSV).

 GOSPEL FLUENCY: The ability to INTERPRET suffering, uncertainty, and opposition through the PROMISES of God rather than through the circumstances of life. The more fluent we become in the gospel, the more resilient we become in tribulation.

 Assessment - Where do you instinctively seek peace, control, or security when life becomes difficult?Application - Ask: “If this were taken away, would I still believe Christ is enough?”
Practice - Repent not merely of sinful behaviors, but of misplaced trust.

Assessment- Can you identify a specific promise of God that is sustaining your faith right now?
Application - When facing tribulation ask: “What has God promised that this circumstance cannot take away?”
Practice - Develop the habit of responding to every fear with a promise.