Two Kingdoms - Part 2预览

Endure to the End

In this chapter of Matthew, we see Jesus foretelling the future to his disciples. Go ahead and read the chapter and then come back to the devotional.

Now that you’ve read the chapter, what thoughts go through your mind? What questions do you have? It’s a pretty heavy read, and perhaps you won’t understand everything, but we can take away some very important warnings about the end times:

• There will be deception.
• There will be wars and rumors of wars.
• There will be famines and earthquakes.
• Followers of Jesus will be arrested, persecuted, and even killed.

Understanding the times we’re living in is important for followers of Jesus. Although things in our world and the kingdom we live in might seem bleak or disconcerting, we are part of another kingdom – the Kingdom of God! Let’s look at the promises and hope for those who trust in Jesus:

• The one who endures to the end will be saved.
• The Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world.
• The Son of Man is coming back.

It’s important also to state that no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen. Only the Father knows.

Go deep: Let’s focus on some of the warnings for us from Jesus himself:

1. We need to endure to the end. Many will turn away from Jesus – how can you stay strong? Who are the people that will help you to stay on the right path and encourage you in your walk with Jesus?
2. We need to keep watch and be ready. What does that mean for the way you live your life?
3. We need to be faithful, sensible servants. What are you doing with all that God has entrusted you with?

Be bold: We saw earlier that the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world. Among your friends or family members, who needs to hear this? Consider the warnings in the ‘Go Deep’ section – who could you share these with?

Memorise it: ...“but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:13-14 NIV