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Do Not Be Terrified 24 OCTOBER 2021 | TRADITIONAL SERVICE | REV MICHAEL TAN

Do Not Be Terrified

24 OCTOBER 2021 | TRADITIONAL SERVICE

Rev Michael Tan

Scripture Passage: Luke 21:5-36 (NIV)

WATCH | SERMON (VIDEO)

READ | SERMON NOTES

Summary | In the passage, Jesus foretold the destruction of the beautiful temple when not one stone will be left on another. (This subsequently occurred in AD 70.) The disciples were curious and asked Jesus when this would happen, and the sign it will take place. (v5-7) The events that Jesus foretold were not only relevant then, but would also affect subsequent generations of Israelites and the whole world.

Jesus warned the disciples not to be led astray by doomsayers who would claim to be the anointed one, who know what will happen. (v8) Nation will rise against nation and there will be great earthquakes, famines, plagues and dreadful portents and signs from heaven. (v9-11) However, before these happen, Christians will be arrested and persecuted. This will present an opportunity to testify. (v12-13) There is no need to prepare in advance as God will provide the words and wisdom that the opponents cannot withstand or contradict. (v14-15) Although hated by all, not a hair on a believer’s head will perish and by endurance they will gain their souls. (v16-19)

Jesus prophesied days of vengeance and great distress when Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. (v20-24) These events as mentioned will happen to all of God’s people, not only those in Israel.

Jesus foretold the second coming of the Son of Man in a cloud with power and great glory. This is a sign that redemption is drawing near. (v27-28) For some it will indeed be the doomsday, but for God’s people this is a day of rejoicing because our full salvation and redemption is drawing near. Our Lord Jesus’ parable of the fig tree is very appropriate. When these things take place, we will know the kingdom of God is near.

Jesus assures us that all that God has planned will take place, and the end will come. (v29-33) We are to be on guard and alert at all times so that we will not be caught unexpectedly by that day. (v34-36) No one is exempted from the Day of the Lord. All will ultimately have to stand before the Son of Man.

Let us pray and ask God to give us the strength to meet the trials and temptations so that the Lord can on that day say to us “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your master.” God is with us even in the most dire circumstances. He is here with us today, so do not be terrified.

(Sermon notes by Denis Koh)

PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS

1. How has the Holy Spirit spoken to you through the preaching of God’s word?

2. How would you summarise the message of this section or story?

3. What are the implications for us through this message?

  • What are the personal implications (for you)?
  • What are the communal implications (for our gospel community)?
  • What are the missional implications (for those we want to reach for Christ)?