The Final Victory

Jesus is distinct from any other political leader. He is God in the flesh. He is a coming King. He will bring earthly powers into account. He will win the final victory. It’s not unusual these days to hear people ask, “Is this the end times.” Maybe. God tells us what will happen as human history draws to a close. And it’s worth being informed.

Take time to read the lengthy passage in Acts 1:1-11. Pay special attention to the references to “kingdom” and to Christ’s return. How might those two subjects relate?

This series, The Politics of Jesus, has been a series about the kingdom of God. Revisit Matthew 18:36-37. What kingdom is Jesus describing? In what sense is that kingdom operative now?

Why are subjects like the end of the world, end times, or the return of Jesus interesting for so many people? How would you describe your interest or lack of interest in this subject matter? Why?

Read 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18. These verses are believed by many to describe the rapture of the church (note the word “caught-up”). What are the details of this event as described in these verses? (Notice how God tells us about the believers’ deliverance from God’s wrath in 1 Thess. 1:10 and 5:9)

Notice the description of Jesus’ final victory in Revelation 19:11-16. What will that day be like?

How does anticipating the final victory brought about by Jesus Christ help you live now in a society of confusion and unrest? How can you be salt and light to a world living in darkness (Matthew 5:13-16)?