Where are we in Time? series sermon notes

Where Are We in Time?

The world feels increasingly unstable:

• Wars and global conflict
• Economic uncertainty
• Moral confusion
• Natural disasters
• Technological advancement
• Global fear and anxiety

Jesus told us these things would happen and referred to them as:

“The beginning of birth pains.”

Matthew 24:6–8

Main Emphasis of the Series

This series is ultimately not about:

• conspiracy theories,
• fear,
• predicting dates,
• or sensationalism.

It is about Jesus.

• Jesus came the first time as Savior.
• Jesus will return as King.
• Biblical prophecy should lead believers toward:
  • readiness,
  • holiness,
  • urgency,
  • hope,
  • and faithful living.

Major Topics We Will Cover

1. The Church Age

We are currently living in the age of grace between Christ’s first coming and His return.

Focus:

• The mission of the Church
• Evangelism and discipleship
• Spiritual alertness
• Living faithfully while waiting

Key Scriptures:

• Acts 1:6–11
• 1 Thessalonians 5:1–11

2. The Reestablishment of Israel

Israel becoming a nation again in 1948 is viewed by many as a major prophetic sign.

Key Scriptures:

• Ezekiel 37
• Isaiah 66:8

Big Idea:

God is still working through history and His covenant promises.

3. The Rapture of the Church

This series teaches a primarily pre-tribulation view of the Rapture.

Definition:

Jesus removes His Church before the Tribulation period.

Key Scriptures:

• 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18
• 1 Corinthians 15:51–52
• Revelation 3:10

Important Reminder:

The Rapture is meant to produce:

• comfort,
• hope,
• and readiness.

4. The Tribulation Period

A future time of worldwide crisis, deception, and judgment.

Themes:

• Rise of the Antichrist
• Global instability
• Spiritual deception
• God’s judgment and mercy

Key Scriptures:

• Daniel 9
• 2 Thessalonians 2
• Revelation 6–13

5. The Bema Seat Judgment

Believers stand before Christ for reward and evaluation — not condemnation.

Focus:

• Faithfulness
• Stewardship
• Eternal reward

Key Scriptures:

• 2 Corinthians 5:10
• 1 Corinthians 3:11–15

6. The Marriage Supper of the Lamb

A heavenly celebration between Christ and His Church.

Key Scripture:

• Revelation 19:6–9

Big Idea:

The end of the story for believers is not fear — it is celebration and union with Christ.

7. The Second Coming & Millennial Reign

Jesus returns visibly and physically to reign on Earth.

Focus:

• Christ defeats evil
• Satan bound
• 1,000-year reign of peace and justice

Key Scriptures:

• Revelation 19–20
• Isaiah 11

Important Takeaways

Prophecy Should Produce:

• Hope, not panic
• Readiness, not obsession
• Faithfulness, not fear
• Evangelism, not escapism

Core Thought

History is not spinning out of control.

History is moving toward Jesus Christ.

Final Reflection Question

If Jesus returned today…

• Would we be ready?
• Would we be faithful?
• Would we be living with eternity in mind?

Closing Scripture

Titus 2:11–13 (NIV)

“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ