The Certainty of Eternity
November 27, 2022 | Jeffrey Reed
Passage: Matthew 24:1-51
“For eight whole years together he kept 10,000 men a-work about it; and that for magnificence and stateliness, it exceeded Solomon’s temple.” - Josephus, 1st century historian.
1) People tend to look to the physical world for comfort & reward (v1-3). Jesus moves the attention of the disciples from the physical kingdom they seek to the eternal one that he is establishing.
“Our anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strengths.” ― C. H. Spurgeon
2) God always points to the eternal (v4-31). Jesus describes the coming tribulation as well as the final tribulation
“Only God can provide us with an eternal perspective and speak to us with absolute and final authority. — R.C. Sproul
3) Our preparation for eternity should be constant and consistent and is for our benefit more than God’s (v32-45). Jesus illustrates the severe consequences of not being prepared for Christ’s return.
“If sinners be damned, at least let them leap to Hell over our dead bodies. And if they perish, let them perish with our arms wrapped about their knees, imploring them to stay. If Hell must be filled, let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions, and let not one go unwarned and unprayed for.” ― C. H. Spurgeon
Series Information
This sermon series will a year long journey through the book of Matthew in 2022. These messages will examine the broader themes in Matthew like God’s character, Jesus as the fulfillment of the Old Testament’s promises for a Messiah, and the importance of internal integrity over external behavior. It lays out practical application points like the need for salvation, baptism, and repentance. It also provides answers to the question “Who is Jesus?”. It invites you to recognize Jesus as God’s Son and to receive him as Lord of your lives.
