“Eschatology” means the Last Things.
“A time to be born and a time to die,” Ecclesiastes 3:2
“You are not ready to live until you are ready to die.”
This Week’s Power Verse
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21
Jesus wept. John 11:35
When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned. Romans 5:12
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23
Death is
2 Eternal Options
1)
That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him. 1 Corinthians 2:9
2)
For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Matthew 7:13b-14
But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death. Revelation 21:8
How Can I Know Where I will Spend Eternity?
My
Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him. Hebrews 9:27-28
…we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. 2 Corinthians 5:10
“If you are only born once, you will die twice. But if you are born twice, you will only die once.”
When will Jesus come back?
“However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows.” Matthew 24:36
For as the lightning flashes in the east and shines to the west, so it will be when the Son of Man comes. Matthew 24:27
In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. 1 Corinthians 15:52
When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day… That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes. Matthew 24:37, 39
…for the Son of Man will come when least expected. Matthew 24:44
How is Jesus Coming Back?
And they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Matthew 24:30
Someday (Jesus) will return from heaven in the same way you saw Him go!” Acts 1:11
For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. 1 Thessalonians 4:16
And He will send out His angels with the mighty blast of a trumpet, and they will gather His chosen ones from all over the world—from the farthest ends of the earth and heaven. Matthew 24:31
What Do We Do While We Watch and Wait?
A faithful, sensible servant is one to whom the master can give the responsibility of managing his other household servants and feeding them. If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward. I tell you the truth, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns. Matthew 24:45-47
And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come. Matthew 24:14
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9
Digital Connection Card
Thanks for joining us today! Please fill out the digital connection card and we’ll follow up with you.
Digital Connection Card
Prayer Request
Ministry Highlights
- Freedom Night
Find freedom from fears, anxiety, self-destructive behaviors, addictions or anything else, you are invited to attend our “Freedom Night” on Monday, April 7th at 6:30pm at our Buda Campus. You’ll hear powerful testimonies from people in the church who have graduated from this amazing program & learn what real recovery looks like. Get started on your road to recovery today! [RSVP HERE TODAY!]
- Easter at The Connection Church
Easter will be here before we know it! Resurrection Sunday is such an exciting time of the year. We invite you and your family to join us in celebrating the amazing power of our risen King, Jesus. Join us for Connection Easter, starting with Good Friday in the Park, and choose from one of our many Easter services on Saturday and Sunday. If you’d like to learn more about Easter CLICK HERE.
CONNECTION GROUP GUIDE
Opening Question:
- What’s your initial reaction when you think about death and eternity? Why do you think many people avoid discussing these topics?
Key Takeaways:
Eschatology is the study of “Last Things” - how the story of humanity and the world will end.
Death is a reality for everyone, but it’s different for followers of Jesus versus non-believers.
There are only two eternal destinations: Heaven and Hell.
Our decision about Jesus determines our destination.
Jesus will return suddenly and unexpectedly, but visibly and personally.
Questions to Discuss:
How does the certainty of death impact how you live your life today?
Read Philippians 1:21. What do you think Paul meant by “to live is Christ and to die is gain”? How can we have this perspective?
Heaven will be far beyond what we can imagine. What parts of Heaven are you most looking forward to?
Why do you think more people believe in Heaven than in Hell? How should the reality of both impact our efforts to tell people the Good News of Jesus?
Discuss the statement: “My DECISION determines my DESTINATION.” How does this challenge or affirm your understanding of salvation?
What are some common misconceptions about Jesus’ return?
How does knowing that Jesus could return at any moment affect your daily choices and priorities?
Practical Applications:
WORK: How can you serve others in your church or community this week?
WITNESS: Who do you know that doesn’t know Jesus? Commit to praying for them daily and looking for chances to share your faith.
URGENCY: Think about how you’re using your time. Is there anything you need to change to live with a more eternal perspective?
STUDY: Study Matthew 24:36-44 more in-depth this week.
Closing Prayer:
Thank God for the hope we have in Jesus. Pray for courage to live with an eternal perspective and to share the Good News with others. Ask for wisdom to use our time wisely as we wait for Christ’s return.