The JESUS Film 24 Day ChallengeSample

"The JESUS Film 24-Day Challenge: Day 21"

Review

It’s hard not to worry about the future. Thankfully, we can trust that Jesus already knows our future, and has it in His hand. When Jesus was in Jerusalem, the great city of His people, He spoke to His disciples of the destruction that was coming. Forty years before the Roman siege of Jerusalem in 70 A.D., Jesus predicted the destruction both of the Temple and of the city itself.

Jesus told people to prepare for difficulty, hatred, and persecution; some of His followers would even be put to death. However, He also encouraged them with the reminder that He would return one day, with many signs and wonders, to redeem His people. When we read His words, we are both warned and comforted because we know our future is in His hands, and He will return for us.

Reflect

• Jesus predicted that many people will be deceived by false teachers claiming to be the messiah. How can false teachers deceive us today?
• Jesus also predicted a time of great suffering and persecution. Why did He say we shouldn’t be afraid, no matter what happens?
• Jesus also predicted that He would return in power and great glory. How can we be prepared for this event?
• Finally, this chapter ends with Jesus’ warning that we need to be ready for His appearing. What instruction did He give so we can stay awake, spiritually speaking?

Respond

Father, thank You for sending Your Son, and that He taught us how to be ready for His return to earth. I pray for myself and my friends, that we won’t be filled with fear, but that we’ll look forward to His return. If we’re persecuted, make us faithful; if we’re threatened, fill us with courage and hope. Above all, let us be ready for Jesus’ return by trusting in Him alone for forgiveness and redemption.

In Jesus’ name, amen.