Look Up! Jesus Is Coming | Greg Laurie

>> I love that because it's based on a >> I love that because it's based on a passage. It's based on the words of the passage. It's based on the words of the passage. It's based on the words of the Apostle John, who said, "Even so, Lord Apostle John, who said, "Even so, Lord Apostle John, who said, "Even so, Lord Jesus, come." Jesus, come." Jesus, come." Let's pray that together. Lord, that's Let's pray that together. Lord, that's Let's pray that together. Lord, that's our prayer. Even so, come. our prayer. Even so, come. our prayer. Even so, come. We look forward to your coming. We look forward to your coming. We look forward to your coming. We rejoice in the day when you will come We rejoice in the day when you will come We rejoice in the day when you will come back as King of kings and Lord of lords back as King of kings and Lord of lords back as King of kings and Lord of lords and establish your kingdom on this and establish your kingdom on this and establish your kingdom on this war-torn, sin-filled planet of ours that war-torn, sin-filled planet of ours that war-torn, sin-filled planet of ours that so desperately needs you. And Lord, we so desperately needs you. And Lord, we so desperately needs you. And Lord, we ask you to speak to us now as we open ask you to speak to us now as we open ask you to speak to us now as we open your word and as we look at what you your word and as we look at what you your word and as we look at what you said about the end times. You look into said about the end times. You look into said about the end times. You look into the future with perfect clarity, knowing the future with perfect clarity, knowing the future with perfect clarity, knowing the future as well as, you know, the the future as well as, you know, the the future as well as, you know, the past and the present. So, help us to past and the present. So, help us to past and the present. So, help us to learn, understanding that Bible prophecy learn, understanding that Bible prophecy learn, understanding that Bible prophecy is not given to scare us, but to prepare is not given to scare us, but to prepare is not given to scare us, but to prepare us, to make us ready for your return. us, to make us ready for your return. us, to make us ready for your return. And that's what we want to be doing, And that's what we want to be doing, And that's what we want to be doing, Lord, doing what you've called us to do Lord, doing what you've called us to do Lord, doing what you've called us to do as we await the return of Jesus Christ.

as we await the return of Jesus Christ. as we await the return of Jesus Christ. So, bless this time of Bible study. So, bless this time of Bible study. So, bless this time of Bible study. We commit it to you now in Jesus' name. We commit it to you now in Jesus' name. We commit it to you now in Jesus' name. Amen. Amen. Amen. You can all be seated. Good morning. You can all be seated. Good morning. You can all be seated. Good morning. Great to see you. Why don't you grab Great to see you. Why don't you grab Great to see you. Why don't you grab your Bible and turn to Luke chapter 21. your Bible and turn to Luke chapter 21. your Bible and turn to Luke chapter 21. As many of you know, I started out in my As many of you know, I started out in my As many of you know, I started out in my ministry as a cartoonist. ministry as a cartoonist. ministry as a cartoonist. I drew a little cartoon book called I drew a little cartoon book called I drew a little cartoon book called Living Water, and then I created a Living Water, and then I created a Living Water, and then I created a couple of characters, Ben Born Again and couple of characters, Ben Born Again and couple of characters, Ben Born Again and Yellow Dog, right? And so, we have a Yellow Dog, right? And so, we have a Yellow Dog, right? And so, we have a brand new cartoon, a comic book out. If brand new cartoon, a comic book out. If brand new cartoon, a comic book out. If you want to get one of the books, there you want to get one of the books, there you want to get one of the books, there there's a young lady sitting in the there's a young lady sitting in the there's a young lady sitting in the front row. Would you like this? Bring front row. Would you like this? Bring front row. Would you like this? Bring with that little toy with you, too. I with that little toy with you, too. I with that little toy with you, too. I did not set this up, but look what she's did not set this up, but look what she's did not set this up, but look what she's holding. She has a yellow dog plush toy. holding. She has a yellow dog plush toy. holding. She has a yellow dog plush toy. That's cute. That's cute. That's cute. Thank you, Amelia. Thank you, Amelia. Thank you, Amelia. Now, don't read that while I'm speaking, Now, don't read that while I'm speaking, Now, don't read that while I'm speaking, okay now? So, Luke chapter 21 So, Luke chapter 21 is our text. The title of my message is is our text. The title of my message is is our text. The title of my message is look up, Jesus is coming.

look up, Jesus is coming. look up, Jesus is coming. I heard the story of a salesman out on I heard the story of a salesman out on I heard the story of a salesman out on the road. After a long day of work, he the road. After a long day of work, he the road. After a long day of work, he went back to his hotel room went back to his hotel room went back to his hotel room and he was getting ready for bed, and he was getting ready for bed, and he was getting ready for bed, sitting on the edge of his bed, taking sitting on the edge of his bed, taking sitting on the edge of his bed, taking his shoes off, and his first shoe his shoes off, and his first shoe his shoes off, and his first shoe dropped with a big thud. Then he dropped with a big thud. Then he dropped with a big thud. Then he thought, "Whoa, what if somebody's like thought, "Whoa, what if somebody's like thought, "Whoa, what if somebody's like in the room below me? I'll wake them in the room below me? I'll wake them in the room below me? I'll wake them up." So, he took the other shoe off very up." So, he took the other shoe off very up." So, he took the other shoe off very quietly and set it gently on the carpet. quietly and set it gently on the carpet. quietly and set it gently on the carpet. He went to bed. 30 minutes passed. He went to bed. 30 minutes passed. He went to bed. 30 minutes passed. There's a knock on the door. He opens There's a knock on the door. He opens There's a knock on the door. He opens it. There's a man with dark circles it. There's a man with dark circles it. There's a man with dark circles under his eyes, and the man says, "I'm under his eyes, and the man says, "I'm under his eyes, and the man says, "I'm in the room below you, and I'm waiting in the room below you, and I'm waiting in the room below you, and I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop so I can get for the other shoe to drop so I can get for the other shoe to drop so I can get some sleep." some sleep." some sleep." I feel like our whole culture right now, I feel like our whole culture right now, I feel like our whole culture right now, in a way, is waiting for the other shoe in a way, is waiting for the other shoe in a way, is waiting for the other shoe to drop. Even among non-believers, there to drop. Even among non-believers, there to drop. Even among non-believers, there is a recognition that something is going is a recognition that something is going is a recognition that something is going on in the world, on in the world, on in the world, something that is not good.

something that is not good. something that is not good. Could this be what the Bible says would Could this be what the Bible says would Could this be what the Bible says would be the end of days? A USC Irvine study be the end of days? A USC Irvine study be the end of days? A USC Irvine study published this year revealed that up to published this year revealed that up to published this year revealed that up to 40% of Americans believe we're living in 40% of Americans believe we're living in 40% of Americans believe we're living in the end times. These are not the end times. These are not the end times. These are not church-going people. These are not church-going people. These are not church-going people. These are not Christians. These are not Bible Christians. These are not Bible Christians. These are not Bible students. These are just regular folks students. These are just regular folks students. These are just regular folks out there who are reading the same news out there who are reading the same news out there who are reading the same news headlines that you're reading, and headlines that you're reading, and headlines that you're reading, and they're wondering, are we in the last they're wondering, are we in the last they're wondering, are we in the last days? days? days? One expert said we live in a culture One expert said we live in a culture One expert said we live in a culture awash in apocalyptic awash in apocalyptic awash in apocalyptic imagery. In fact, the very word imagery. In fact, the very word imagery. In fact, the very word apocalypse now has become a secular apocalypse now has become a secular apocalypse now has become a secular word. It's not just a word that we would word. It's not just a word that we would word. It's not just a word that we would use. Even non-believers are using it to use. Even non-believers are using it to use. Even non-believers are using it to describe the times that we're living in. describe the times that we're living in. describe the times that we're living in. There's a whole kind of programming now There's a whole kind of programming now There's a whole kind of programming now that's out there that they call that's out there that they call that's out there that they call apocalyptic fiction or doomer fiction. apocalyptic fiction or doomer fiction. apocalyptic fiction or doomer fiction. Shows like The Last of Us, The Walking Shows like The Last of Us, The Walking Shows like The Last of Us, The Walking Dead, Black Mirror, The Handmaid's Tale, Dead, Black Mirror, The Handmaid's Tale, Dead, Black Mirror, The Handmaid's Tale, they all are of the doomer genre. A they all are of the doomer genre. A they all are of the doomer genre. A whole genre now built around the times whole genre now built around the times whole genre now built around the times in which we're living.

in which we're living. in which we're living. And so we wonder, are we in the last And so we wonder, are we in the last And so we wonder, are we in the last days? Of course, you know what I think days? Of course, you know what I think days? Of course, you know what I think about that. I believe we are. about that. I believe we are. about that. I believe we are. I believe Jesus could come back at any I believe Jesus could come back at any I believe Jesus could come back at any moment. And the church has been praying moment. And the church has been praying moment. And the church has been praying about this for over 2,000 years as our about this for over 2,000 years as our about this for over 2,000 years as our Lord taught us to in the Lord's Prayer. Lord taught us to in the Lord's Prayer. Lord taught us to in the Lord's Prayer. We say, "Our Father who art in heaven, We say, "Our Father who art in heaven, We say, "Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom hallowed be your name. Your kingdom hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it come. Your will be done on earth as it come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." That's what we're praying is in heaven." That's what we're praying is in heaven." That's what we're praying for, the return of Jesus Christ. Well, for, the return of Jesus Christ. Well, for, the return of Jesus Christ. Well, here before us in Luke 21 here before us in Luke 21 here before us in Luke 21 is an answer of Jesus to a question. In is an answer of Jesus to a question. In is an answer of Jesus to a question. In fact, it's the longest answer he gave to fact, it's the longest answer he gave to fact, it's the longest answer he gave to any question that was ever asked of him. any question that was ever asked of him. any question that was ever asked of him. And the question was, "What will be the And the question was, "What will be the And the question was, "What will be the sign of your coming and of the end of sign of your coming and of the end of sign of your coming and of the end of the world?" This same uh talk that Jesus the world?" This same uh talk that Jesus the world?" This same uh talk that Jesus gave is also found in Matthew 24, often gave is also found in Matthew 24, often gave is also found in Matthew 24, often called the Olivet Discourse because it called the Olivet Discourse because it called the Olivet Discourse because it was delivered on the Mount of Olives, was delivered on the Mount of Olives, was delivered on the Mount of Olives, which is right outside of the city of which is right outside of the city of which is right outside of the city of Jerusalem. So, I want to talk about what Jerusalem. So, I want to talk about what Jerusalem. So, I want to talk about what Jesus said in this chapter and just talk Jesus said in this chapter and just talk Jesus said in this chapter and just talk about the importance of talking about about the importance of talking about about the importance of talking about the end times in general. Why? Because the end times in general. Why? Because the end times in general. Why? Because 25% 25% 25% of the Bible is prophetic. So, it's not of the Bible is prophetic. So, it's not of the Bible is prophetic. So, it's not some obscure side note. The Bible some obscure side note. The Bible some obscure side note. The Bible literally oozes with the return of Jesus literally oozes with the return of Jesus literally oozes with the return of Jesus Christ. In fact, the New Testament Christ. In fact, the New Testament Christ. In fact, the New Testament contains over 300 references to the

contains over 300 references to the contains over 300 references to the return of Christ. That's one out of return of Christ. That's one out of return of Christ. That's one out of every 13 verses. More than 29% of the every 13 verses. More than 29% of the every 13 verses. More than 29% of the 21,000 21,000 21,000 plus verses in the Bible contain plus verses in the Bible contain plus verses in the Bible contain prophecy. Okay, so I bring this up prophecy. Okay, so I bring this up prophecy. Okay, so I bring this up because if the Lord talks about it so because if the Lord talks about it so because if the Lord talks about it so much, shouldn't we pay attention to it? much, shouldn't we pay attention to it? much, shouldn't we pay attention to it? There used to be a time when you heard There used to be a time when you heard There used to be a time when you heard this topic addressed in church more this topic addressed in church more this topic addressed in church more often. But now we see some churches that often. But now we see some churches that often. But now we see some churches that used to talk about it not talking about used to talk about it not talking about used to talk about it not talking about it anymore. And that is a mistake it anymore. And that is a mistake it anymore. And that is a mistake because there's a lot of advantages to because there's a lot of advantages to because there's a lot of advantages to studying the end times or as it studying the end times or as it studying the end times or as it sometimes called eschatology sometimes called eschatology sometimes called eschatology or the last days. In fact, let me give or the last days. In fact, let me give or the last days. In fact, let me give you a quick five reasons why it's a good you a quick five reasons why it's a good you a quick five reasons why it's a good thing to talk about this and to study thing to talk about this and to study thing to talk about this and to study this. Number one, this. Number one, this. Number one, understanding Bible prophecy brings hope understanding Bible prophecy brings hope understanding Bible prophecy brings hope in a hopeless world. in a hopeless world. in a hopeless world. Let me say that again. Understanding Let me say that again. Understanding Let me say that again. Understanding Bible prophecy brings hope in a hopeless Bible prophecy brings hope in a hopeless Bible prophecy brings hope in a hopeless world. You know, if you're just reading world. You know, if you're just reading world. You know, if you're just reading news headlines, they call it doom news headlines, they call it doom news headlines, they call it doom scrolling on your phone, it's going to scrolling on your phone, it's going to scrolling on your phone, it's going to bring you down. Uh 2025 poll uh from the bring you down. Uh 2025 poll uh from the bring you down. Uh 2025 poll uh from the Academy of Sleep Medicine found that 20 Academy of Sleep Medicine found that 20 Academy of Sleep Medicine found that 20 38% of adults report worse sleep tied to 38% of adults report worse sleep tied to 38% of adults report worse sleep tied to doom scrolling before bed. And it's doom scrolling before bed. And it's doom scrolling before bed. And it's linked to anxiety and depression. I linked to anxiety and depression. I linked to anxiety and depression. I remember one person told me the things remember one person told me the things remember one person told me the things that are going on in the world keep them that are going on in the world keep them that are going on in the world keep them up at night. That should not be the case

up at night. That should not be the case up at night. That should not be the case because understanding Bible prophecy because understanding Bible prophecy because understanding Bible prophecy brings hope in a hopeless world. Jesus brings hope in a hopeless world. Jesus brings hope in a hopeless world. Jesus said, "When you see these things begin said, "When you see these things begin said, "When you see these things begin to happen, look up for your redemption to happen, look up for your redemption to happen, look up for your redemption is drawing near." Maybe we spend too is drawing near." Maybe we spend too is drawing near." Maybe we spend too much time looking down at our phones and much time looking down at our phones and much time looking down at our phones and we don't spend enough time looking up we don't spend enough time looking up we don't spend enough time looking up remembering that Jesus said he will come remembering that Jesus said he will come remembering that Jesus said he will come back again. That's why the Bible calls back again. That's why the Bible calls back again. That's why the Bible calls it the blessed hope. In Titus 2:13 it it the blessed hope. In Titus 2:13 it it the blessed hope. In Titus 2:13 it says we wait for that blessed hope that says we wait for that blessed hope that says we wait for that blessed hope that is the appearing of the glory of God of is the appearing of the glory of God of is the appearing of the glory of God of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. And by the way, that word blessed can be And by the way, that word blessed can be And by the way, that word blessed can be translated happy. translated happy. translated happy. It's a happy hope. It's a happy thing to It's a happy hope. It's a happy thing to It's a happy hope. It's a happy thing to know that Jesus could come back at any know that Jesus could come back at any know that Jesus could come back at any moment. Martin Luther said and I quote, moment. Martin Luther said and I quote, moment. Martin Luther said and I quote, "There are two days on my calendar, this "There are two days on my calendar, this "There are two days on my calendar, this day and that day." End quote. day and that day." End quote. day and that day." End quote. And that day that he was referring to And that day that he was referring to And that day that he was referring to was the hope of the return of Christ. was the hope of the return of Christ. was the hope of the return of Christ. Another reason it's a good thing to Another reason it's a good thing to Another reason it's a good thing to study Bible prophecy is it unravels the study Bible prophecy is it unravels the study Bible prophecy is it unravels the mystery of history.

mystery of history. mystery of history. It unravels the mystery of history. We It unravels the mystery of history. We It unravels the mystery of history. We ask, "Why is there so much evil in the ask, "Why is there so much evil in the ask, "Why is there so much evil in the world? Uh when will right prevail over world? Uh when will right prevail over world? Uh when will right prevail over wrong? When will Satan finally be wrong? When will Satan finally be wrong? When will Satan finally be judged?" Answer, "When Christ comes back judged?" Answer, "When Christ comes back judged?" Answer, "When Christ comes back and establishes his kingdom." There's and establishes his kingdom." There's and establishes his kingdom." There's great benefits in talking about this, in great benefits in talking about this, in great benefits in talking about this, in studying the end times events and studying the end times events and studying the end times events and specifically studying the book of specifically studying the book of specifically studying the book of Revelation. In fact, that's the only Revelation. In fact, that's the only Revelation. In fact, that's the only book of the Bible that has an actual book of the Bible that has an actual book of the Bible that has an actual blessing attached to the person who blessing attached to the person who blessing attached to the person who reads and understands it. It says that reads and understands it. It says that reads and understands it. It says that there's a blessing for the person who there's a blessing for the person who there's a blessing for the person who reads, hears, and keeps the words of reads, hears, and keeps the words of reads, hears, and keeps the words of this book. So, you're blessed when you this book. So, you're blessed when you this book. So, you're blessed when you have a biblical understanding of these have a biblical understanding of these have a biblical understanding of these things. I heard a story about a guy who things. I heard a story about a guy who things. I heard a story about a guy who loves studying the book of Revelation loves studying the book of Revelation loves studying the book of Revelation and some academics came to him. They and some academics came to him. They and some academics came to him. They considered themselves great theologians. considered themselves great theologians. considered themselves great theologians. They said, "Why do you read the book of They said, "Why do you read the book of They said, "Why do you read the book of Revelation all the time? No one can Revelation all the time? No one can Revelation all the time? No one can understand that book. It's an enigma.

understand that book. It's an enigma. understand that book. It's an enigma. The guy says, "No, I I I love to read it The guy says, "No, I I I love to read it The guy says, "No, I I I love to read it and I understand it." "Oh, do you?" they and I understand it." "Oh, do you?" they and I understand it." "Oh, do you?" they said. "Okay, then explain the book of said. "Okay, then explain the book of said. "Okay, then explain the book of Revelation to us." And he says, "It Revelation to us." And he says, "It Revelation to us." And he says, "It means we win in the end." He got it means we win in the end." He got it means we win in the end." He got it right. right. right. He got it right. He got it right. He got it right. >> [applause] >> Another reason we should study Bible >> Another reason we should study Bible prophecy is it brings sense to our prophecy is it brings sense to our prophecy is it brings sense to our suffering. suffering. suffering. It brings sense to our suffering. What It brings sense to our suffering. What It brings sense to our suffering. What do you say to someone who has suffered a do you say to someone who has suffered a do you say to someone who has suffered a great tragedy? great tragedy? great tragedy? What do you say to someone who is What do you say to someone who is What do you say to someone who is dealing with a severe disability? What dealing with a severe disability? What dealing with a severe disability? What do you say to someone who has lost a do you say to someone who has lost a do you say to someone who has lost a loved one? loved one? loved one? What do you say to someone who is What do you say to someone who is What do you say to someone who is weeping with grief? You would say, "This weeping with grief? You would say, "This weeping with grief? You would say, "This is not God's final plan." is not God's final plan." is not God's final plan." You say there's coming a day according You say there's coming a day according You say there's coming a day according to Revelation 21:4 when God will wipe to Revelation 21:4 when God will wipe to Revelation 21:4 when God will wipe every tear from their eyes and there'll every tear from their eyes and there'll every tear from their eyes and there'll be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying for all those things are gone forever.

for all those things are gone forever. for all those things are gone forever. You say to someone who has lost a loved You say to someone who has lost a loved You say to someone who has lost a loved one who died in faith that one day the one who died in faith that one day the one who died in faith that one day the Lord himself will descend from heaven Lord himself will descend from heaven Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout and with the voice of the with a shout and with the voice of the with a shout and with the voice of the Archangel and the trump of God and the Archangel and the trump of God and the Archangel and the trump of God and the dead in Christ arise first and we who dead in Christ arise first and we who dead in Christ arise first and we who are alive and remaining shall be caught are alive and remaining shall be caught are alive and remaining shall be caught up together with them in the clouds and up together with them in the clouds and up together with them in the clouds and so shall we ever be with the Lord. so shall we ever be with the Lord. so shall we ever be with the Lord. That's what you say. You say you'll be reunited with your You say you'll be reunited with your loved one again and that is why after he loved one again and that is why after he loved one again and that is why after he made that statement, the Apostle Paul made that statement, the Apostle Paul made that statement, the Apostle Paul added this, "Therefore, comfort one added this, "Therefore, comfort one added this, "Therefore, comfort one another with these words." another with these words." another with these words." And Bible prophecy causes us to want to And Bible prophecy causes us to want to And Bible prophecy causes us to want to live a godly life. Studying Bible live a godly life. Studying Bible live a godly life. Studying Bible prophecy causes us to want to live a prophecy causes us to want to live a prophecy causes us to want to live a godly life. The The more that we learn godly life. The The more that we learn godly life. The The more that we learn about the future, the more we'll be about the future, the more we'll be about the future, the more we'll be motivated to live right in the present. motivated to live right in the present. motivated to live right in the present. You know, it's an interesting thing to You know, it's an interesting thing to You know, it's an interesting thing to note that whenever you read what the note that whenever you read what the note that whenever you read what the Bible says about the future, there is Bible says about the future, there is Bible says about the future, there is usually an exhortation to live a godly usually an exhortation to live a godly usually an exhortation to live a godly life attached to it. So, it's always life attached to it. So, it's always life attached to it. So, it's always with a purpose. As an example, 2 Peter with a purpose. As an example, 2 Peter with a purpose. As an example, 2 Peter 3:11 says, "Since everything around us 3:11 says, "Since everything around us 3:11 says, "Since everything around us is going to be destroyed like this, what is going to be destroyed like this, what is going to be destroyed like this, what holy and godly lives we should be holy and godly lives we should be holy and godly lives we should be living."

living." living." Right. So, some people say, "But it's Right. So, some people say, "But it's Right. So, some people say, "But it's too hard to figure out. It's too hard to too hard to figure out. It's too hard to too hard to figure out. It's too hard to understand." Know this, it is not God's understand." Know this, it is not God's understand." Know this, it is not God's desire to conceal, but to reveal. desire to conceal, but to reveal. desire to conceal, but to reveal. In fact, the very word revelation means In fact, the very word revelation means In fact, the very word revelation means unveiling. unveiling. unveiling. Uh Jesus, when he talked about the Uh Jesus, when he talked about the Uh Jesus, when he talked about the abomination of desolation, which is when abomination of desolation, which is when abomination of desolation, which is when the Antichrist sets up the rebuilt the Antichrist sets up the rebuilt the Antichrist sets up the rebuilt Jewish temple and erects an image of Jewish temple and erects an image of Jewish temple and erects an image of himself in it and tells people to himself in it and tells people to himself in it and tells people to worship it, Jesus says, "Let the reader worship it, Jesus says, "Let the reader worship it, Jesus says, "Let the reader understand. When you see the abomination understand. When you see the abomination understand. When you see the abomination of desolation, let the reader of desolation, let the reader of desolation, let the reader understand." In other words, "Hey, man, understand." In other words, "Hey, man, understand." In other words, "Hey, man, figure this out. You need to know about figure this out. You need to know about figure this out. You need to know about these things." Paul, when addressing the these things." Paul, when addressing the these things." Paul, when addressing the topic of end times events, says, "I topic of end times events, says, "I topic of end times events, says, "I would not have you ignorant, brothers would not have you ignorant, brothers would not have you ignorant, brothers and sisters." So, we can understand and sisters." So, we can understand and sisters." So, we can understand these things, and we need to understand these things, and we need to understand these things, and we need to understand these things to the best of our ability. these things to the best of our ability. these things to the best of our ability. So, here we have the Olivet Discourse in So, here we have the Olivet Discourse in So, here we have the Olivet Discourse in Luke chapter 21, where Jesus is Luke chapter 21, where Jesus is Luke chapter 21, where Jesus is answering the question, "What will be answering the question, "What will be answering the question, "What will be the sign of your coming?" Let's go to the sign of your coming?" Let's go to the sign of your coming?" Let's go to Luke 21:8.

Luke 21:8. Luke 21:8. "Watch "Watch "Watch that you are not deceived, for many will that you are not deceived, for many will that you are not deceived, for many will come in my name saying, 'I am he, and come in my name saying, 'I am he, and come in my name saying, 'I am he, and the time is near. Do not follow them.' the time is near. Do not follow them.' the time is near. Do not follow them.' When you hear of wars and rumors of wars When you hear of wars and rumors of wars When you hear of wars and rumors of wars or wars and uprisings, do not be or wars and uprisings, do not be or wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen, frightened. These things must happen, frightened. These things must happen, but the end will not come right away. but the end will not come right away. but the end will not come right away. Now, Jesus is describing what we call Now, Jesus is describing what we call Now, Jesus is describing what we call the great tribulation period. In fact, the great tribulation period. In fact, the great tribulation period. In fact, if you were to take the events of the if you were to take the events of the if you were to take the events of the great tribulation and overlay them on great tribulation and overlay them on great tribulation and overlay them on Luke 21 and Matthew 24, you'll find that Luke 21 and Matthew 24, you'll find that Luke 21 and Matthew 24, you'll find that the events are in the order that are the events are in the order that are the events are in the order that are given. So, the idea is that given. So, the idea is that given. So, the idea is that let me give you a big picture. Here's let me give you a big picture. Here's let me give you a big picture. Here's kind of a prophetic timeline on the kind of a prophetic timeline on the kind of a prophetic timeline on the screen behind me. Can you all see that? screen behind me. Can you all see that? screen behind me. Can you all see that? Okay, so here's my understanding of end Okay, so here's my understanding of end Okay, so here's my understanding of end times events, which is 100% accurate, times events, which is 100% accurate, times events, which is 100% accurate, just so you know that. just so you know that. just so you know that. Of course, I do believe that. And I know Of course, I do believe that. And I know Of course, I do believe that. And I know there's differing opinions and I respect there's differing opinions and I respect there's differing opinions and I respect their right to be wrong. Now, seriously, their right to be wrong. Now, seriously, their right to be wrong. Now, seriously, this is how I see it.

this is how I see it. this is how I see it. And uh the next event on the prophetic And uh the next event on the prophetic And uh the next event on the prophetic calendar is the rapture of the church. calendar is the rapture of the church. calendar is the rapture of the church. I'll talk about that in a moment. When I'll talk about that in a moment. When I'll talk about that in a moment. When the Lord comes for us and we're caught the Lord comes for us and we're caught the Lord comes for us and we're caught up to meet the Lord in a moment in the up to meet the Lord in a moment in the up to meet the Lord in a moment in the twinkling of an eye, then we come to the twinkling of an eye, then we come to the twinkling of an eye, then we come to the emergence of Antichrist, who inaugurates emergence of Antichrist, who inaugurates emergence of Antichrist, who inaugurates a 7-year tribulation period. Then we a 7-year tribulation period. Then we a 7-year tribulation period. Then we have the 7-year period that I'll talk have the 7-year period that I'll talk have the 7-year period that I'll talk about more in a moment. Then we have the about more in a moment. Then we have the about more in a moment. Then we have the culmination culmination culmination of the tribulation period, the Battle of of the tribulation period, the Battle of of the tribulation period, the Battle of Armageddon fought in the Valley of Armageddon fought in the Valley of Armageddon fought in the Valley of Megiddo. So, it starts with the Megiddo. So, it starts with the Megiddo. So, it starts with the emergence of Antichrist. It ends with emergence of Antichrist. It ends with emergence of Antichrist. It ends with the second coming of Jesus Christ. Then the second coming of Jesus Christ. Then the second coming of Jesus Christ. Then we have what we call the Millennium, the we have what we call the Millennium, the we have what we call the Millennium, the 1,000-year reign of Christ. And finally, 1,000-year reign of Christ. And finally, 1,000-year reign of Christ. And finally, we have the New Jerusalem as a bride we have the New Jerusalem as a bride we have the New Jerusalem as a bride adorned for her husband coming down to adorned for her husband coming down to adorned for her husband coming down to our planet. So, that's sort of the big our planet. So, that's sort of the big our planet. So, that's sort of the big picture, but to launch things, to picture, but to launch things, to picture, but to launch things, to inaugurate things, we have Antichrist.

inaugurate things, we have Antichrist. inaugurate things, we have Antichrist. Many will come in my name saying, "I am Many will come in my name saying, "I am Many will come in my name saying, "I am Christ." Christ." Christ." Now, the prefix does not only mean I Now, the prefix does not only mean I Now, the prefix does not only mean I mean against, it also means instead of. mean against, it also means instead of. mean against, it also means instead of. So, we have a man who will emerge on the So, we have a man who will emerge on the So, we have a man who will emerge on the scene that offers himself as the scene that offers himself as the scene that offers himself as the Messiah. Messiah. Messiah. And some will even believe he's Messiah And some will even believe he's Messiah And some will even believe he's Messiah for this reason. He'll be a peacemaker. for this reason. He'll be a peacemaker. for this reason. He'll be a peacemaker. He'll come with a peace treaty that'll He'll come with a peace treaty that'll He'll come with a peace treaty that'll get the other nations of the earth to get the other nations of the earth to get the other nations of the earth to sign that will last for 3 and 1/2 years. sign that will last for 3 and 1/2 years. sign that will last for 3 and 1/2 years. He'll be charismatic, magnetic, He'll be charismatic, magnetic, He'll be charismatic, magnetic, intelligent, intelligent, intelligent, probably handsome as well. Think the probably handsome as well. Think the probably handsome as well. Think the devil wears Prada. So, devil wears Prada. So, devil wears Prada. So, he comes on the scene and he even helps he comes on the scene and he even helps he comes on the scene and he even helps the Jewish people rebuild their temple the Jewish people rebuild their temple the Jewish people rebuild their temple in Jerusalem. So, some will say he is in Jerusalem. So, some will say he is in Jerusalem. So, some will say he is the very Messiah. But as it turns out, the very Messiah. But as it turns out, the very Messiah. But as it turns out, he'll be revealed to be the most evil he'll be revealed to be the most evil he'll be revealed to be the most evil man who ever lived. The Bible says Satan man who ever lived. The Bible says Satan man who ever lived. The Bible says Satan gives him his power.

gives him his power. gives him his power. He's He's satanically energized. So, He's He's satanically energized. So, He's He's satanically energized. So, instead of being the greatest instead of being the greatest instead of being the greatest peacemaker, in reality, he's the peacemaker, in reality, he's the peacemaker, in reality, he's the greatest troublemaker, but it'll take greatest troublemaker, but it'll take greatest troublemaker, but it'll take time for people to understand that. Now, time for people to understand that. Now, time for people to understand that. Now, is the Antichrist alive today? I don't is the Antichrist alive today? I don't is the Antichrist alive today? I don't know the answer to that, but clearly know the answer to that, but clearly know the answer to that, but clearly things are ripe for this dark night to things are ripe for this dark night to things are ripe for this dark night to rise to power. Uh he'll do what no other rise to power. Uh he'll do what no other rise to power. Uh he'll do what no other president, prime minister, king, queen, president, prime minister, king, queen, president, prime minister, king, queen, or world leader has ever done. He'll or world leader has ever done. He'll or world leader has ever done. He'll bring economic stability and world peace bring economic stability and world peace bring economic stability and world peace that will be short-lived. But Antichrist that will be short-lived. But Antichrist that will be short-lived. But Antichrist cannot be revealed until the church is cannot be revealed until the church is cannot be revealed until the church is raptured. raptured. raptured. Uh 2 Thessalonians 2:7 says, "The secret Uh 2 Thessalonians 2:7 says, "The secret Uh 2 Thessalonians 2:7 says, "The secret of lawlessness is already working. of lawlessness is already working. of lawlessness is already working. Only he cannot be revealed. Only he who Only he cannot be revealed. Only he who Only he cannot be revealed. Only he who now restrains is taken out of the way." now restrains is taken out of the way." now restrains is taken out of the way." Or another translation puts it, "Only he Or another translation puts it, "Only he Or another translation puts it, "Only he who now restrains disappears from the who now restrains disappears from the who now restrains disappears from the midst.

midst. midst. Then that wicked one will be revealed, Then that wicked one will be revealed, Then that wicked one will be revealed, whom the Lord will destroy with the whom the Lord will destroy with the whom the Lord will destroy with the brightness of his coming. So, brightness of his coming. So, brightness of his coming. So, the restraining work in the world today the restraining work in the world today the restraining work in the world today is the Holy Spirit working through the is the Holy Spirit working through the is the Holy Spirit working through the church. That's you, that's me. church. That's you, that's me. church. That's you, that's me. We're the ones that speak up for what is We're the ones that speak up for what is We're the ones that speak up for what is true. We are the ones that speak out true. We are the ones that speak out true. We are the ones that speak out against what is wrong. We're a against what is wrong. We're a against what is wrong. We're a restraining force of evil. restraining force of evil. restraining force of evil. But once we're removed, Antichrist can But once we're removed, Antichrist can But once we're removed, Antichrist can have full reign in in a technical sense, have full reign in in a technical sense, have full reign in in a technical sense, all hell can break loose. And so, once all hell can break loose. And so, once all hell can break loose. And so, once we're removed, you could see how these we're removed, you could see how these we're removed, you could see how these things would go into fast forward, and things would go into fast forward, and things would go into fast forward, and then the tribulation period begins. Now, then the tribulation period begins. Now, then the tribulation period begins. Now, some people say, "Well, but no, the some people say, "Well, but no, the some people say, "Well, but no, the Bible says we'll go through Bible says we'll go through Bible says we'll go through tribulation." Let's understand the tribulation." Let's understand the tribulation." Let's understand the difference between personal tribulation difference between personal tribulation difference between personal tribulation and the great tribulation. Okay, and the great tribulation. Okay, and the great tribulation. Okay, personal tribulation is something that personal tribulation is something that personal tribulation is something that will be experienced by every Christian. will be experienced by every Christian. will be experienced by every Christian. It Jesus even said, "In this world you It Jesus even said, "In this world you It Jesus even said, "In this world you shall have tribulation. But be of good shall have tribulation. But be of good shall have tribulation. But be of good cheer, I've overcome the world." Our cheer, I've overcome the world." Our cheer, I've overcome the world." Our rejoice when all kinds of trials come rejoice when all kinds of trials come rejoice when all kinds of trials come your way. The Bible speaks of this many your way. The Bible speaks of this many your way. The Bible speaks of this many times. So, we will go through trials, we times. So, we will go through trials, we times. So, we will go through trials, we will go through personal tribulation.

will go through personal tribulation. will go through personal tribulation. But there's a big difference between But there's a big difference between But there's a big difference between that and what we call the great that and what we call the great that and what we call the great tribulation period, a time lasting for 7 tribulation period, a time lasting for 7 tribulation period, a time lasting for 7 years. We will not go through that. years. We will not go through that. years. We will not go through that. Speaking to the church of Philadelphia Speaking to the church of Philadelphia Speaking to the church of Philadelphia in the book of Revelation, Jesus says, in the book of Revelation, Jesus says, in the book of Revelation, Jesus says, "Because you've obeyed my command to "Because you've obeyed my command to "Because you've obeyed my command to persevere, I will protect you from that persevere, I will protect you from that persevere, I will protect you from that great time of testing that will come great time of testing that will come great time of testing that will come upon the whole world to test those that upon the whole world to test those that upon the whole world to test those that belong to this world." Next point, belong to this world." Next point, belong to this world." Next point, Israel in the Middle East play a key Israel in the Middle East play a key Israel in the Middle East play a key role in end-times events. role in end-times events. role in end-times events. Israel in the Middle East play a key Israel in the Middle East play a key Israel in the Middle East play a key role in end-times events, and that's why role in end-times events, and that's why role in end-times events, and that's why all Bible students are watching with all Bible students are watching with all Bible students are watching with wrapped attention of what is going on wrapped attention of what is going on wrapped attention of what is going on over there right now over there right now over there right now with this ongoing conflict and war with with this ongoing conflict and war with with this ongoing conflict and war with Iran Iran Iran uh with the tension between Iran and uh with the tension between Iran and uh with the tension between Iran and Israel. Uh we're watching it with great Israel. Uh we're watching it with great Israel. Uh we're watching it with great concern. concern. concern. And in fact in verse 20, Jesus says, And in fact in verse 20, Jesus says, And in fact in verse 20, Jesus says, "Luke 21, you'll see Jerusalem "Luke 21, you'll see Jerusalem "Luke 21, you'll see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, you'll know that surrounded by armies, you'll know that surrounded by armies, you'll know that the time of its destruction has arrived.

the time of its destruction has arrived. the time of its destruction has arrived. Let those who are in Judea flee to the Let those who are in Judea flee to the Let those who are in Judea flee to the hills and those in Jerusalem must get hills and those in Jerusalem must get hills and those in Jerusalem must get out and those out in the country should out and those out in the country should out and those out in the country should return to the city." Now, understand, return to the city." Now, understand, return to the city." Now, understand, these events, I'll get to this in a these events, I'll get to this in a these events, I'll get to this in a moment, this hasn't started yet. We're moment, this hasn't started yet. We're moment, this hasn't started yet. We're not in the great tribulation period. The not in the great tribulation period. The not in the great tribulation period. The verse I just read is not in full yet, verse I just read is not in full yet, verse I just read is not in full yet, here's what we're seeing, we're seeing here's what we're seeing, we're seeing here's what we're seeing, we're seeing foreshocks of it. foreshocks of it. foreshocks of it. We're seeing labor pains. Jesus We're seeing labor pains. Jesus We're seeing labor pains. Jesus described end-times event events as a described end-times event events as a described end-times event events as a woman getting closer to having her baby. woman getting closer to having her baby. woman getting closer to having her baby. And you ladies know who've had children And you ladies know who've had children And you ladies know who've had children uh that the closer you get to the birth uh that the closer you get to the birth uh that the closer you get to the birth of the baby, the closer the labor pains of the baby, the closer the labor pains of the baby, the closer the labor pains are to each other. So, we're seeing are to each other. So, we're seeing are to each other. So, we're seeing labor pains closer together. Let me put labor pains closer together. Let me put labor pains closer together. Let me put it another way, we're seeing signs of it another way, we're seeing signs of it another way, we're seeing signs of the times, things that are happening. It the times, things that are happening. It the times, things that are happening. It used to be in maybe every couple years used to be in maybe every couple years used to be in maybe every couple years something significant would happen or something significant would happen or something significant would happen or maybe every couple of months. Nowadays, maybe every couple of months. Nowadays, maybe every couple of months. Nowadays, it seems like every day there's it seems like every day there's it seems like every day there's something going on that alerts us to the something going on that alerts us to the something going on that alerts us to the fact that Jesus is coming, right? So, fact that Jesus is coming, right? So, fact that Jesus is coming, right? So, Jerusalem Jerusalem Jerusalem this amazing this is the most important this amazing this is the most important this amazing this is the most important city in all of the world. Not Washington city in all of the world. Not Washington city in all of the world. Not Washington D.C., not Moscow, not Paris, not Berlin, D.C., not Moscow, not Paris, not Berlin, D.C., not Moscow, not Paris, not Berlin, not Norco.

Why do you laugh at that? That was not Why do you laugh at that? That was not meant as a joke. meant as a joke. meant as a joke. That's insulting to the people of Norco That's insulting to the people of Norco That's insulting to the people of Norco that you laughed. I I How dare you? I'm that you laughed. I I How dare you? I'm that you laughed. I I How dare you? I'm kidding. kidding. kidding. It was meant to elicit a chuckle. It was meant to elicit a chuckle. It was meant to elicit a chuckle. Uh Uh Uh but it's Jerusalem. but it's Jerusalem. but it's Jerusalem. Jerusalem, the city of the past, the Jerusalem, the city of the past, the Jerusalem, the city of the past, the present, and the future. present, and the future. present, and the future. It's the city of the past because so It's the city of the past because so It's the city of the past because so many of the significant biblical events many of the significant biblical events many of the significant biblical events happened there. That was of course the happened there. That was of course the happened there. That was of course the city of David. city of David. city of David. Always has been the capital of Israel. Always has been the capital of Israel. Always has been the capital of Israel. Our Lord went to Jerusalem. He preached Our Lord went to Jerusalem. He preached Our Lord went to Jerusalem. He preached there. He was crucified outside of the there. He was crucified outside of the there. He was crucified outside of the walls of Jerusalem. It's a city of the walls of Jerusalem. It's a city of the walls of Jerusalem. It's a city of the present. Uh present. Uh present. Uh re-gathered together, modern-day re-gathered together, modern-day re-gathered together, modern-day miracle. I'll talk about that in a miracle. I'll talk about that in a miracle. I'll talk about that in a moment. And the city of the future. God moment. And the city of the future. God moment. And the city of the future. God has a plan for her in the future. But has a plan for her in the future. But has a plan for her in the future. But isn't it interesting that Jerusalem is isn't it interesting that Jerusalem is isn't it interesting that Jerusalem is specifically mentioned as the key to specifically mentioned as the key to specifically mentioned as the key to these things? When the Jewish people these things? When the Jewish people these things? When the Jewish people returned to their homeland on May 14th, returned to their homeland on May 14th, returned to their homeland on May 14th, 1948, 1948, 1948, it was a modern-day miracle, and it set it was a modern-day miracle, and it set it was a modern-day miracle, and it set the prophetic clock ticking.

the prophetic clock ticking. the prophetic clock ticking. Uh Uh Uh consider this. Never has a nation been consider this. Never has a nation been consider this. Never has a nation been able to maintain its national identity able to maintain its national identity able to maintain its national identity even 3 to 500 years after being removed even 3 to 500 years after being removed even 3 to 500 years after being removed from its homeland until Israel. from its homeland until Israel. from its homeland until Israel. They came back to their land again, the They came back to their land again, the They came back to their land again, the land given to them. So, the key to land given to them. So, the key to land given to them. So, the key to understanding Bible prophecy is to understanding Bible prophecy is to understanding Bible prophecy is to understanding Israel and specifically understanding Israel and specifically understanding Israel and specifically the Jewish people. God has made a the Jewish people. God has made a the Jewish people. God has made a promise to them. Revelation, excuse me, promise to them. Revelation, excuse me, promise to them. Revelation, excuse me, Genesis 12. God says, "I'll make you a Genesis 12. God says, "I'll make you a Genesis 12. God says, "I'll make you a great nation. I'll bless those that great nation. I'll bless those that great nation. I'll bless those that bless you, and I'll curse those that bless you, and I'll curse those that bless you, and I'll curse those that curse you." curse you." curse you." Listen, this book we study together. Listen, this book we study together. Listen, this book we study together. This is a Jewish book. Primarily given This is a Jewish book. Primarily given This is a Jewish book. Primarily given to us through Jewish people. to us through Jewish people. to us through Jewish people. It's more than a Jewish history book, It's more than a Jewish history book, It's more than a Jewish history book, but it is that as well. It's a book that but it is that as well. It's a book that but it is that as well. It's a book that God has given us to show us how to know God has given us to show us how to know God has given us to show us how to know him and addresses everything we're going him and addresses everything we're going him and addresses everything we're going to face in life, but we learn so much to face in life, but we learn so much to face in life, but we learn so much about his people, the chosen people, the about his people, the chosen people, the about his people, the chosen people, the Jewish people in this book, and he loves Jewish people in this book, and he loves Jewish people in this book, and he loves them and has a plan for them.

them and has a plan for them. them and has a plan for them. And he has not cast them off. Some would And he has not cast them off. Some would And he has not cast them off. Some would say, "Oh, well, God's done with the say, "Oh, well, God's done with the say, "Oh, well, God's done with the Jews, and and now all of the promises Jews, and and now all of the promises Jews, and and now all of the promises given to Israel have been transferred given to Israel have been transferred given to Israel have been transferred over to the church." This is sometimes over to the church." This is sometimes over to the church." This is sometimes referred to as replacement theology. referred to as replacement theology. referred to as replacement theology. Nothing could be further from the truth. Nothing could be further from the truth. Nothing could be further from the truth. Romans 11 says, "Has God rejected and Romans 11 says, "Has God rejected and Romans 11 says, "Has God rejected and deserted his people, the Jews?" Oh, not deserted his people, the Jews?" Oh, not deserted his people, the Jews?" Oh, not at all. Okay, next point. The primary at all. Okay, next point. The primary at all. Okay, next point. The primary events of the end times have not yet events of the end times have not yet events of the end times have not yet begun. begun. begun. But once the first event takes place, But once the first event takes place, But once the first event takes place, the rapture of the church, all the rest the rapture of the church, all the rest the rapture of the church, all the rest follow in short order. You could compare follow in short order. You could compare follow in short order. You could compare it to dominoes closely stacked together. it to dominoes closely stacked together. it to dominoes closely stacked together. You've seen it before, the first domino You've seen it before, the first domino You've seen it before, the first domino falls and the next one falls, and on falls and the next one falls, and on falls and the next one falls, and on they go. they go. they go. And so, that's what these events are And so, that's what these events are And so, that's what these events are going to be like. So, we're waiting for going to be like. So, we're waiting for going to be like. So, we're waiting for the next event to happen. So, I know the next event to happen. So, I know the next event to happen. So, I know this is quite alarming and concerning this is quite alarming and concerning this is quite alarming and concerning and for some maybe even frightening. So, and for some maybe even frightening. So, and for some maybe even frightening. So, Jesus addresses this. Look at verse 28 Jesus addresses this. Look at verse 28 Jesus addresses this. Look at verse 28 28. So, when you see these things begin 28. So, when you see these things begin 28. So, when you see these things begin to happen, stand and look up for your to happen, stand and look up for your to happen, stand and look up for your salvation is near.

salvation is near. salvation is near. Know this, governments change, Know this, governments change, Know this, governments change, wars erupt, threats increase, people wars erupt, threats increase, people wars erupt, threats increase, people panic, but Jesus says, "Look up." panic, but Jesus says, "Look up." panic, but Jesus says, "Look up." He doesn't say, "Freak out." He doesn't say, "Freak out." He doesn't say, "Freak out." Why should I not freak out? Because God Why should I not freak out? Because God Why should I not freak out? Because God is still sovereign and God is in is still sovereign and God is in is still sovereign and God is in control. control. control. Right? >> Nothing is catching God by surprise. >> Nothing is catching God by surprise. History isn't spinning out of control. History isn't spinning out of control. History isn't spinning out of control. History is moving exactly as God said it History is moving exactly as God said it History is moving exactly as God said it would because history is his story. would because history is his story. would because history is his story. The great preacher C.H. Spurgeon put it The great preacher C.H. Spurgeon put it The great preacher C.H. Spurgeon put it this way and I quote, "The sovereignty this way and I quote, "The sovereignty this way and I quote, "The sovereignty of God is the pillow upon which a child of God is the pillow upon which a child of God is the pillow upon which a child of God rests his head at night giving of God rests his head at night giving of God rests his head at night giving perfect peace." perfect peace." perfect peace." Does that make sense? The sovereignty of Does that make sense? The sovereignty of Does that make sense? The sovereignty of God. What is that? That means that God's God. What is that? That means that God's God. What is that? That means that God's in control. in control. in control. He's in control of everything that He's in control of everything that He's in control of everything that happens to your life. In your life. So happens to your life. In your life. So happens to your life. In your life. So nothing surprises God cuz you might be nothing surprises God cuz you might be nothing surprises God cuz you might be facing something right now that makes no facing something right now that makes no facing something right now that makes no sense to you at all. Why is this sense to you at all. Why is this sense to you at all. Why is this happening? I can't give you the answer happening? I can't give you the answer happening? I can't give you the answer to that of course, but I can tell you to that of course, but I can tell you to that of course, but I can tell you this, God is sovereign, God's in this, God is sovereign, God's in this, God is sovereign, God's in control. He either did it or he's control. He either did it or he's control. He either did it or he's allowed it for his ultimate purposes. So allowed it for his ultimate purposes. So allowed it for his ultimate purposes. So you can lay your head on the pillow at you can lay your head on the pillow at you can lay your head on the pillow at night knowing that he has all things in night knowing that he has all things in night knowing that he has all things in his control.

his control. his control. He knows what's coming. When God He knows what's coming. When God He knows what's coming. When God predicts the future, it's not like he's predicts the future, it's not like he's predicts the future, it's not like he's taking some big risk because God sees taking some big risk because God sees taking some big risk because God sees the future as clearly as I see the past. the future as clearly as I see the past. the future as clearly as I see the past. Why might even say more accurately cuz I Why might even say more accurately cuz I Why might even say more accurately cuz I sometimes forget the past. I love it sometimes forget the past. I love it sometimes forget the past. I love it when I'm telling the story of something when I'm telling the story of something when I'm telling the story of something that happened to me and my wife says, that happened to me and my wife says, that happened to me and my wife says, "That's not the way it happened." "That's not the way it happened." "That's not the way it happened." Now see, "No, that's exactly how it No, Now see, "No, that's exactly how it No, Now see, "No, that's exactly how it No, no, you left out a couple of details." I no, you left out a couple of details." I no, you left out a couple of details." I said, "Excuse me, you weren't even there said, "Excuse me, you weren't even there said, "Excuse me, you weren't even there when it happened." when it happened." when it happened." She says, "Yes, but I remember how you She says, "Yes, but I remember how you She says, "Yes, but I remember how you said said said told it me about it the first time and told it me about it the first time and told it me about it the first time and you left out a couple of things and talk you left out a couple of things and talk you left out a couple of things and talk on it." She's right about that. So on it." She's right about that. So on it." She's right about that. So So I forget the past but God remembers So I forget the past but God remembers So I forget the past but God remembers the past with clarity. He knows the the past with clarity. He knows the the past with clarity. He knows the future with the same clarity. It I future with the same clarity. It I future with the same clarity. It I remember a while ago I was watching the remember a while ago I was watching the remember a while ago I was watching the Super Bowl game and it was getting Super Bowl game and it was getting Super Bowl game and it was getting toward the end and I [clears throat] I toward the end and I [clears throat] I toward the end and I [clears throat] I had to stop for a moment so I hit pause had to stop for a moment so I hit pause had to stop for a moment so I hit pause and I went and did something then I got and I went and did something then I got and I went and did something then I got in a conversation and and then I checked in a conversation and and then I checked in a conversation and and then I checked my phone and I saw on X now formerly my phone and I saw on X now formerly my phone and I saw on X now formerly Twitter, I found out who won the game Twitter, I found out who won the game Twitter, I found out who won the game and how they won. That was a shock.

and how they won. That was a shock. and how they won. That was a shock. Well, then I went back and watched the Well, then I went back and watched the Well, then I went back and watched the rest of the game, but I saw it rest of the game, but I saw it rest of the game, but I saw it differently differently differently cuz I knew what was going to happen, you cuz I knew what was going to happen, you cuz I knew what was going to happen, you see? And that's how God looks at these see? And that's how God looks at these see? And that's how God looks at these things. He knows already. He's told us things. He knows already. He's told us things. He knows already. He's told us not to worry. This is how we should look not to worry. This is how we should look not to worry. This is how we should look at the world. We've read the last at the world. We've read the last at the world. We've read the last chapter. Jesus wins. Jesus wins, and we chapter. Jesus wins. Jesus wins, and we chapter. Jesus wins. Jesus wins, and we win, too. >> As I said, Bible prophecy is not given >> As I said, Bible prophecy is not given to scare us, but to prepare us. to scare us, but to prepare us. to scare us, but to prepare us. It's given to make us evangelistic, not It's given to make us evangelistic, not It's given to make us evangelistic, not argumentative. argumentative. argumentative. We shouldn't be focused on who is the We shouldn't be focused on who is the We shouldn't be focused on who is the Antichrist. We should be preparing Antichrist. We should be preparing Antichrist. We should be preparing people for the return of Jesus Christ. people for the return of Jesus Christ. people for the return of Jesus Christ. That should be our focus. >> [applause] >> [applause] >> Now, Jesus closes this with specific >> Now, Jesus closes this with specific >> Now, Jesus closes this with specific words to each of us in Luke 21:34. words to each of us in Luke 21:34. words to each of us in Luke 21:34. Now, he's saying, "This is what you Now, he's saying, "This is what you Now, he's saying, "This is what you should be doing a lot of what I've just should be doing a lot of what I've just should be doing a lot of what I've just told you."

told you." told you." Watch out. Watch out. Watch out. Don't let your hearts be dulled by Don't let your hearts be dulled by Don't let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness and by the carousing and drunkenness and by the carousing and drunkenness and by the worries of this life. Don't let that day worries of this life. Don't let that day worries of this life. Don't let that day catch you unaware like a trap. For that catch you unaware like a trap. For that catch you unaware like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on day will come upon everyone living on day will come upon everyone living on the earth. So, keep alert at all times the earth. So, keep alert at all times the earth. So, keep alert at all times that your that your that your faith might be strong enough to escape faith might be strong enough to escape faith might be strong enough to escape the things coming when you stand before the things coming when you stand before the things coming when you stand before the Son of Man. So, now he says, "You be the Son of Man. So, now he says, "You be the Son of Man. So, now he says, "You be careful. Here's some things to be aware careful. Here's some things to be aware careful. Here's some things to be aware of." The danger, a spiritually dull of." The danger, a spiritually dull of." The danger, a spiritually dull heart. "Watch out," he says, "let not heart. "Watch out," he says, "let not heart. "Watch out," he says, "let not your hearts be dulled." Then Jesus your hearts be dulled." Then Jesus your hearts be dulled." Then Jesus identifies three things that can dull identifies three things that can dull identifies three things that can dull our hearts in spiritual alertness. One our hearts in spiritual alertness. One our hearts in spiritual alertness. One of them is carousing. of them is carousing. of them is carousing. The other one is drunkenness and the The other one is drunkenness and the The other one is drunkenness and the third one would be worry. third one would be worry. third one would be worry. Carousing and drunkenness, two of them Carousing and drunkenness, two of them Carousing and drunkenness, two of them are about numbing out and one is about are about numbing out and one is about are about numbing out and one is about worrying too much. Notice that Jesus worrying too much. Notice that Jesus worrying too much. Notice that Jesus puts partying and panic in the same puts partying and panic in the same puts partying and panic in the same sentence. I know they sound like like sentence. I know they sound like like sentence. I know they sound like like opposites, but actually they're very opposites, but actually they're very opposites, but actually they're very similar in that they distract us.

similar in that they distract us. similar in that they distract us. One is just partying away or numbing One is just partying away or numbing One is just partying away or numbing ourselves, alcohol use or drug use. ourselves, alcohol use or drug use. ourselves, alcohol use or drug use. And in all the problems it can bring And in all the problems it can bring And in all the problems it can bring into our lives. into our lives. into our lives. And then carousing is a word that And then carousing is a word that And then carousing is a word that actually can be translated excessive actually can be translated excessive actually can be translated excessive partying, indulgence and pleasure partying, indulgence and pleasure partying, indulgence and pleasure seeking. It's the idea of eating and seeking. It's the idea of eating and seeking. It's the idea of eating and feasting and drinking feasting and drinking feasting and drinking and having the hangover. I remember this and having the hangover. I remember this and having the hangover. I remember this from many, many years ago from many, many years ago from many, many years ago when I was pretty young when I was pretty young when I was pretty young and I would go out and drink with and I would go out and drink with and I would go out and drink with friends at night and the way I felt in friends at night and the way I felt in friends at night and the way I felt in the morning, that horrible hungover the morning, that horrible hungover the morning, that horrible hungover feeling, right? I don't have that feeling, right? I don't have that feeling, right? I don't have that feeling anymore, of course, because I feeling anymore, of course, because I feeling anymore, of course, because I don't drink anymore. But I had a feeling don't drink anymore. But I had a feeling don't drink anymore. But I had a feeling similar to it after I went to the Orange similar to it after I went to the Orange similar to it after I went to the Orange County Fair. Just the other day. Just the other day. Uh because I don't know if it's Uh because I don't know if it's Uh because I don't know if it's required when you go to the fair, but required when you go to the fair, but required when you go to the fair, but you must eat the worst foods. But you must eat the worst foods. But you must eat the worst foods. But is there any healthy food in any fair?

is there any healthy food in any fair? is there any healthy food in any fair? It seems like It seems like It seems like every you know, you can't just get a every you know, you can't just get a every you know, you can't just get a little chicken like you get a turkey little chicken like you get a turkey little chicken like you get a turkey leg, right? Every and of course leg, right? Every and of course leg, right? Every and of course everything is deep fried. Deep fried everything is deep fried. Deep fried everything is deep fried. Deep fried Twinkies, deep fried Snickers, deep Twinkies, deep fried Snickers, deep Twinkies, deep fried Snickers, deep fried Ozempic. Everything is deep fried. They'll deep fry it somehow. They'll deep fry it somehow. So I ate a cinnamon pretzel, which was So I ate a cinnamon pretzel, which was So I ate a cinnamon pretzel, which was gigantic. gigantic. gigantic. And And And when I finally was done, I had sugar and when I finally was done, I had sugar and when I finally was done, I had sugar and cinnamon all over my shirt. And then I cinnamon all over my shirt. And then I cinnamon all over my shirt. And then I thought, what better way to top it off thought, what better way to top it off thought, what better way to top it off than with a corn dog? Because I wanted than with a corn dog? Because I wanted than with a corn dog? Because I wanted to do an experiment. I wanted to compare to do an experiment. I wanted to compare to do an experiment. I wanted to compare the Orange County Fair corn dog to the the Orange County Fair corn dog to the the Orange County Fair corn dog to the Disneyland corn dog. Because I'm kind of Disneyland corn dog. Because I'm kind of Disneyland corn dog. Because I'm kind of a fan of the Disney corn dog, I have to a fan of the Disney corn dog, I have to a fan of the Disney corn dog, I have to say. And so I I tried it and it was say. And so I I tried it and it was say. And so I I tried it and it was okay, but I have to say the Disney corn okay, but I have to say the Disney corn okay, but I have to say the Disney corn dog wins, all right? Just costs more, dog wins, all right? Just costs more, dog wins, all right? Just costs more, too, but it does win in this case. But, too, but it does win in this case. But, too, but it does win in this case. But, you know, afterwards you have that dull, you know, afterwards you have that dull, you know, afterwards you have that dull, icky feeling, you know? And if you go on icky feeling, you know? And if you go on icky feeling, you know? And if you go on a few rides, you know, and that only a few rides, you know, and that only a few rides, you know, and that only adds to it. But we don't want that adds to it. But we don't want that adds to it. But we don't want that dullness in our life. That dulls us to dullness in our life. That dulls us to dullness in our life. That dulls us to spiritual things. Of course, drinking, spiritual things. Of course, drinking, spiritual things. Of course, drinking, drug use drug use drug use can certainly contribute to that and can certainly contribute to that and can certainly contribute to that and make create whole new problems for you.

make create whole new problems for you. make create whole new problems for you. But then there's the worry, the things But then there's the worry, the things But then there's the worry, the things that we're worrying about all the time. that we're worrying about all the time. that we're worrying about all the time. You know, maybe I don't party, I don't You know, maybe I don't party, I don't You know, maybe I don't party, I don't drink, I don't use drugs. Thank God you drink, I don't use drugs. Thank God you drink, I don't use drugs. Thank God you don't do that, but then you're just don't do that, but then you're just don't do that, but then you're just obsessed with this life. And not even obsessed with this life. And not even obsessed with this life. And not even with bad things, just with things, you with bad things, just with things, you with bad things, just with things, you know? The worries and cares of this know? The worries and cares of this know? The worries and cares of this life. And you're so busy focused on this life. And you're so busy focused on this life. And you're so busy focused on this life, you never think about the life, you never think about the life, you never think about the afterlife. afterlife. afterlife. And it's important that we remember that And it's important that we remember that And it's important that we remember that our time on earth is short. our time on earth is short. our time on earth is short. Live every day as though it were your Live every day as though it were your Live every day as though it were your last day because one day it will be. last day because one day it will be. last day because one day it will be. So live every day for the glory of God So live every day for the glory of God So live every day for the glory of God in a state of readiness. in a state of readiness. in a state of readiness. So if Christ were to return on that day So if Christ were to return on that day So if Christ were to return on that day or this day or tomorrow, we would be or this day or tomorrow, we would be or this day or tomorrow, we would be ready. So what is the solution to ready. So what is the solution to ready. So what is the solution to spiritual dullness? Jesus says, "Watch spiritual dullness? Jesus says, "Watch spiritual dullness? Jesus says, "Watch and pray." and pray." and pray." Watch and pray. Watch and pray. Watch and pray. You know, a lot of people spend a You know, a lot of people spend a You know, a lot of people spend a fortune on prepping for a physical fortune on prepping for a physical fortune on prepping for a physical apocalypse. apocalypse. apocalypse. They have bunkers and generators and They have bunkers and generators and They have bunkers and generators and freeze-dried food, you know? But Jesus freeze-dried food, you know? But Jesus freeze-dried food, you know? But Jesus did not say "Hunker down." He said did not say "Hunker down." He said did not say "Hunker down." He said "Watch and pray."

"Watch and pray." "Watch and pray." It's not a survivalist mentality. It's It's not a survivalist mentality. It's It's not a survivalist mentality. It's an evangelistic mentality. Like, what an evangelistic mentality. Like, what an evangelistic mentality. Like, what can I do to influence as many people as can I do to influence as many people as can I do to influence as many people as possible before the Lord comes back possible before the Lord comes back possible before the Lord comes back again. again. again. So, it's watch and pray. So, it's watch and pray. So, it's watch and pray. You may I you know, I could be watching You may I you know, I could be watching You may I you know, I could be watching without praying, and that just turns without praying, and that just turns without praying, and that just turns into anxiety. Oh, I look at what's going into anxiety. Oh, I look at what's going into anxiety. Oh, I look at what's going on in the world around me, and oh, it on in the world around me, and oh, it on in the world around me, and oh, it freaks me out. No, it's watch and pray. freaks me out. No, it's watch and pray. freaks me out. No, it's watch and pray. But, I could pray without watching, But, I could pray without watching, But, I could pray without watching, which makes me live in a state of which makes me live in a state of which makes me live in a state of denial, act as though nothing is going denial, act as though nothing is going denial, act as though nothing is going on. Jesus links them together. And then, on. Jesus links them together. And then, on. Jesus links them together. And then, he says "Don't let that day catch you he says "Don't let that day catch you he says "Don't let that day catch you unaware." That means be continually unaware." That means be continually unaware." That means be continually expectant. expectant. expectant. In Revelation 22:20, Jesus says "Surely, In Revelation 22:20, Jesus says "Surely, In Revelation 22:20, Jesus says "Surely, I come quickly." I come quickly." I come quickly." And John, overwhelmed with this, says in And John, overwhelmed with this, says in And John, overwhelmed with this, says in response "Even so, come, Lord Jesus, response "Even so, come, Lord Jesus, response "Even so, come, Lord Jesus, come." We just sang that, didn't we? come." We just sang that, didn't we? come." We just sang that, didn't we? Even so, come, Lord Jesus, come. So, he Even so, come, Lord Jesus, come. So, he Even so, come, Lord Jesus, come. So, he starts with amen. Amen. So be it. starts with amen. Amen. So be it. starts with amen. Amen. So be it. Another way to translate Another way to translate Another way to translate amen is let it be. As Saint Paul said, amen is let it be. As Saint Paul said, amen is let it be. As Saint Paul said, let it be.

let it be. let it be. Paul McCartney, never mind him. Paul McCartney, never mind him. Paul McCartney, never mind him. Like, but all of my cultural references Like, but all of my cultural references Like, but all of my cultural references have been falling flat lately. I don't have been falling flat lately. I don't have been falling flat lately. I don't know what's happening. know what's happening. know what's happening. You got to be alert. You got to be You got to be alert. You got to be You got to be alert. You got to be aware. Sort of like when I ride my aware. Sort of like when I ride my aware. Sort of like when I ride my motorcycle. motorcycle. motorcycle. You got to be switched on, and I'll tell You got to be switched on, and I'll tell You got to be switched on, and I'll tell you why. If any of you ride bikes, you you why. If any of you ride bikes, you you why. If any of you ride bikes, you know what I'm talking about. You have to know what I'm talking about. You have to know what I'm talking about. You have to be prepared for people doing the most be prepared for people doing the most be prepared for people doing the most ridiculous things because they don't see ridiculous things because they don't see ridiculous things because they don't see you. They don't hear you. That's why I you. They don't hear you. That's why I you. They don't hear you. That's why I like loud pipes on my bike. I know it like loud pipes on my bike. I know it like loud pipes on my bike. I know it makes people mad. I don't have makes people mad. I don't have makes people mad. I don't have obnoxiously loud pipes, but you do hear obnoxiously loud pipes, but you do hear obnoxiously loud pipes, but you do hear me when I'm around cuz some bikes make me when I'm around cuz some bikes make me when I'm around cuz some bikes make no sound at all. Cuz as you're going no sound at all. Cuz as you're going no sound at all. Cuz as you're going down the road, you think that guy might down the road, you think that guy might down the road, you think that guy might just pull right in front of me, or that just pull right in front of me, or that just pull right in front of me, or that person might just throw their brakes on, person might just throw their brakes on, person might just throw their brakes on, so you're in a constant state of so you're in a constant state of so you're in a constant state of readiness. You've got your hand You've readiness. You've got your hand You've readiness. You've got your hand You've got your foot lightly on the brake. got your foot lightly on the brake. got your foot lightly on the brake. You've got your fingers on your You've got your fingers on your You've got your fingers on your handbrake, just in case you don't want handbrake, just in case you don't want handbrake, just in case you don't want to hit it too hard. You don't want to to hit it too hard. You don't want to to hit it too hard. You don't want to fall off your bike, but you're in a fall off your bike, but you're in a fall off your bike, but you're in a state of readiness. Very different from state of readiness. Very different from state of readiness. Very different from the state I'm in when I drive my car.

the state I'm in when I drive my car. the state I'm in when I drive my car. And now we have self-driving cars, so And now we have self-driving cars, so And now we have self-driving cars, so you can go and do You can go to sleep. you can go and do You can go to sleep. you can go and do You can go to sleep. I've seen stories in the news about I've seen stories in the news about I've seen stories in the news about people that just program their home and people that just program their home and people that just program their home and then go to sleep, let the car drive then go to sleep, let the car drive then go to sleep, let the car drive them. Well, you know, so you want to be them. Well, you know, so you want to be them. Well, you know, so you want to be alert and aware. That's the idea that is alert and aware. That's the idea that is alert and aware. That's the idea that is being communicated here. Be alert and being communicated here. Be alert and being communicated here. Be alert and aware. Watch and pray. Okay, pray. Pray aware. Watch and pray. Okay, pray. Pray aware. Watch and pray. Okay, pray. Pray about what? What should I pray as I about what? What should I pray as I about what? What should I pray as I await the return of Jesus Christ? Well, await the return of Jesus Christ? Well, await the return of Jesus Christ? Well, I should pray, "Lord, keep me I should pray, "Lord, keep me I should pray, "Lord, keep me spiritually alert and awake." Keep me spiritually alert and awake." Keep me spiritually alert and awake." Keep me spiritually alert and awake. Romans 13 spiritually alert and awake. Romans 13 spiritually alert and awake. Romans 13 says, "Knowing the critical strategic says, "Knowing the critical strategic says, "Knowing the critical strategic period of time, it is time for you to period of time, it is time for you to period of time, it is time for you to wake up out of your sleep and cast off wake up out of your sleep and cast off wake up out of your sleep and cast off the works of darkness and put on the the works of darkness and put on the the works of darkness and put on the armor of light." Like, wake up, man. Be armor of light." Like, wake up, man. Be armor of light." Like, wake up, man. Be alert. Pray that you are spiritually alert. Pray that you are spiritually alert. Pray that you are spiritually alert. Another thing you could pray is, alert. Another thing you could pray is, alert. Another thing you could pray is, "Lord, help me to live a godly life."

"Lord, help me to live a godly life." "Lord, help me to live a godly life." That's how Bible prophecy should impact That's how Bible prophecy should impact That's how Bible prophecy should impact us. 2 Peter 3:11 says, "What kind of us. 2 Peter 3:11 says, "What kind of us. 2 Peter 3:11 says, "What kind of person should you be in holy conduct and person should you be in holy conduct and person should you be in holy conduct and godliness?" Says, "You await the Lord's godliness?" Says, "You await the Lord's godliness?" Says, "You await the Lord's return." 1 John 3 says, "He that has return." 1 John 3 says, "He that has return." 1 John 3 says, "He that has this hope," and it is a hope of the this hope," and it is a hope of the this hope," and it is a hope of the Lord's return, "purifies himself." Lord's return, "purifies himself." Lord's return, "purifies himself." So, if I understand these truths of the So, if I understand these truths of the So, if I understand these truths of the imminent return of Christ as I should, imminent return of Christ as I should, imminent return of Christ as I should, it should impact me in the way that I it should impact me in the way that I it should impact me in the way that I live. And if it isn't impacting me in live. And if it isn't impacting me in live. And if it isn't impacting me in the way that I live, how well do I the way that I live, how well do I the way that I live, how well do I understand them? I think I'm missing the understand them? I think I'm missing the understand them? I think I'm missing the point. point. point. Heard the story of an old farmer who had Heard the story of an old farmer who had Heard the story of an old farmer who had an amazing dog. His dog walked on water. an amazing dog. His dog walked on water. an amazing dog. His dog walked on water. Really? Really? Really? And so, he had a neighbor named Clem who And so, he had a neighbor named Clem who And so, he had a neighbor named Clem who wasn't impressed by anything. You know wasn't impressed by anything. You know wasn't impressed by anything. You know people like that? Nothing you say people like that? Nothing you say people like that? Nothing you say impresses them. So, he wanted to impress impresses them. So, he wanted to impress impresses them. So, he wanted to impress Clem. So, he said, "Clem, let's go duck Clem. So, he said, "Clem, let's go duck Clem. So, he said, "Clem, let's go duck hunting tomorrow." And they went out hunting tomorrow." And they went out hunting tomorrow." And they went out there, and there, and there, and this farmer fired off a shot, and a duck this farmer fired off a shot, and a duck this farmer fired off a shot, and a duck landed in the middle of the lake, and landed in the middle of the lake, and landed in the middle of the lake, and sure enough, his dog ran across the top sure enough, his dog ran across the top sure enough, his dog ran across the top of the water, grabbed that duck, of the water, grabbed that duck, of the water, grabbed that duck, retrieved it, brought it back, dropped retrieved it, brought it back, dropped retrieved it, brought it back, dropped it at his feet. And he shot another it at his feet. And he shot another it at his feet. And he shot another duck. Once again, his dog walks on the duck. Once again, his dog walks on the duck. Once again, his dog walks on the water, gets the duck, brings it back, water, gets the duck, brings it back, water, gets the duck, brings it back, drops it at his feet. The farmer turns drops it at his feet. The farmer turns drops it at his feet. The farmer turns to his buddy, Clem, and says, "What do to his buddy, Clem, and says, "What do to his buddy, Clem, and says, "What do you think about that, Clem?"

you think about that, Clem?" you think about that, Clem?" Clem kind of kicks the dirt and says, "I Clem kind of kicks the dirt and says, "I Clem kind of kicks the dirt and says, "I don't think your dog knows how to swim." That's how a lot of people are. That's how a lot of people are. When it comes to this topic, they just When it comes to this topic, they just When it comes to this topic, they just miss the point. miss the point. miss the point. If we really get this, If we really get this, If we really get this, it should cause us to live godly lives. it should cause us to live godly lives. it should cause us to live godly lives. Another thing I should pray is, "Lord, Another thing I should pray is, "Lord, Another thing I should pray is, "Lord, give me opportunities to share the give me opportunities to share the give me opportunities to share the gospel." gospel." gospel." Jesus said, "The fields are white to Jesus said, "The fields are white to Jesus said, "The fields are white to harvest. Pray to the Lord of the harvest harvest. Pray to the Lord of the harvest harvest. Pray to the Lord of the harvest that they would send forth laborers into that they would send forth laborers into that they would send forth laborers into the harvest." So, wow, everywhere I the harvest." So, wow, everywhere I the harvest." So, wow, everywhere I look, I see opportunities look, I see opportunities look, I see opportunities to talk about my faith. to talk about my faith. to talk about my faith. So, I pray, "Lord, send laborers into So, I pray, "Lord, send laborers into So, I pray, "Lord, send laborers into the harvest." But before you pray that, the harvest." But before you pray that, the harvest." But before you pray that, make sure you pray make sure you pray make sure you pray "Lord, send me into the harvest." "Lord, send me into the harvest." "Lord, send me into the harvest." You know, people say, "I want to be used You know, people say, "I want to be used You know, people say, "I want to be used by God. I want to be a missionary. I by God. I want to be a missionary. I by God. I want to be a missionary. I want to cross the sea for Christ." Hmm. want to cross the sea for Christ." Hmm. want to cross the sea for Christ." Hmm. Why don't you start by crossing the Why don't you start by crossing the Why don't you start by crossing the street for Christ street for Christ street for Christ and talking to your neighbor?

You have evangelistic opportunities, and You have evangelistic opportunities, and if you think you don't, you're just not if you think you don't, you're just not if you think you don't, you're just not paying attention. They're all around paying attention. They're all around paying attention. They're all around you. you. you. So, pray, "Lord, give me more So, pray, "Lord, give me more So, pray, "Lord, give me more opportunities to share the gospel." opportunities to share the gospel." opportunities to share the gospel." Here's something interesting. There are Here's something interesting. There are Here's something interesting. There are some things you can only do in heaven, some things you can only do in heaven, some things you can only do in heaven, and there are some things you can only and there are some things you can only and there are some things you can only do on Earth. do on Earth. do on Earth. Only in heaven can I worship without Only in heaven can I worship without Only in heaven can I worship without sin. sin. sin. Only in heaven will I be reunited with Only in heaven will I be reunited with Only in heaven will I be reunited with loved ones who have preceded me. loved ones who have preceded me. loved ones who have preceded me. Only in heaven can I receive my eternal Only in heaven can I receive my eternal Only in heaven can I receive my eternal reward. Only in heaven will I see Jesus reward. Only in heaven will I see Jesus reward. Only in heaven will I see Jesus face-to-face. face-to-face. face-to-face. But, only on Earth But, only on Earth But, only on Earth there are certain things I can do, or I there are certain things I can do, or I there are certain things I can do, or I should say, there are certain things I should say, there are certain things I should say, there are certain things I can only do on Earth. Only on Earth can can only do on Earth. Only on Earth can can only do on Earth. Only on Earth can I share the gospel with someone. There's I share the gospel with someone. There's I share the gospel with someone. There's no evangelism in heaven. no evangelism in heaven. no evangelism in heaven. No need to share your faith in heaven No need to share your faith in heaven No need to share your faith in heaven because everyone already believes. So, because everyone already believes. So, because everyone already believes. So, we need to do our evangelizing now. we need to do our evangelizing now. we need to do our evangelizing now. Only on Earth can I store up treasures Only on Earth can I store up treasures Only on Earth can I store up treasures in heaven.

in heaven. in heaven. You see, I can't write a check You see, I can't write a check You see, I can't write a check uh to support the work of the kingdom of uh to support the work of the kingdom of uh to support the work of the kingdom of God in heaven. There's no Apple Pay in God in heaven. There's no Apple Pay in God in heaven. There's no Apple Pay in heaven, okay? No Venmo in heaven. heaven, okay? No Venmo in heaven. heaven, okay? No Venmo in heaven. So, do your giving while you're living, So, do your giving while you're living, So, do your giving while you're living, then you're knowing where it's going, then you're knowing where it's going, then you're knowing where it's going, right? Do it now. right? Do it now. right? Do it now. >> [applause] >> [applause] >> [applause] >> And when I invest my finances in the >> And when I invest my finances in the >> And when I invest my finances in the work of the kingdom of God, I actually work of the kingdom of God, I actually work of the kingdom of God, I actually lay up for myself treasures in heaven, lay up for myself treasures in heaven, lay up for myself treasures in heaven, where neither moth or rust can corrupt where neither moth or rust can corrupt where neither moth or rust can corrupt nor thieves can break in and steal. Then nor thieves can break in and steal. Then nor thieves can break in and steal. Then Jesus adds this, "And where your Jesus adds this, "And where your Jesus adds this, "And where your treasure is, there will your heart be treasure is, there will your heart be treasure is, there will your heart be also." also." also." Only on Earth Only on Earth Only on Earth can I suffer and endure trials can I suffer and endure trials can I suffer and endure trials and draw closer to God. and draw closer to God. and draw closer to God. Only on Earth can I suffer and endure Only on Earth can I suffer and endure Only on Earth can I suffer and endure trials and draw closer to God. You might trials and draw closer to God. You might trials and draw closer to God. You might say, "Well, say, "Well, say, "Well, I think I'll pass on that." I think I'll pass on that." I think I'll pass on that." Hold on now, buckaroo. Hold on now, buckaroo. Hold on now, buckaroo. There are some great things that happen There are some great things that happen There are some great things that happen when we come through times of testing.

when we come through times of testing. when we come through times of testing. Uh Uh Uh you know, you know, you know, the Apostle Paul talked about a thorn in the Apostle Paul talked about a thorn in the Apostle Paul talked about a thorn in the flesh. the flesh. the flesh. A messenger of Satan sent to buffet him, A messenger of Satan sent to buffet him, A messenger of Satan sent to buffet him, he said, to punch him, to hit him. he said, to punch him, to hit him. he said, to punch him, to hit him. What does this even mean? What was this What does this even mean? What was this What does this even mean? What was this thorn in the flesh? No one knows. It's thorn in the flesh? No one knows. It's thorn in the flesh? No one knows. It's interesting, Paul could have identified interesting, Paul could have identified interesting, Paul could have identified it. He had a lot of thorns in the flesh. it. He had a lot of thorns in the flesh. it. He had a lot of thorns in the flesh. He had people always criticizing him, He had people always criticizing him, He had people always criticizing him, telling lies about him. Maybe that was telling lies about him. Maybe that was telling lies about him. Maybe that was his thorn in the flesh. He had maybe a his thorn in the flesh. He had maybe a his thorn in the flesh. He had maybe a physical problem. I mean, after all, physical problem. I mean, after all, physical problem. I mean, after all, this guy's been shipwrecked, he's been this guy's been shipwrecked, he's been this guy's been shipwrecked, he's been beaten with rods. He he's faced all beaten with rods. He he's faced all beaten with rods. He he's faced all kinds of physical persecution. Some kinds of physical persecution. Some kinds of physical persecution. Some might have even think it might have been might have even think it might have been might have even think it might have been his eyesight, but maybe that was his his eyesight, but maybe that was his his eyesight, but maybe that was his thorn in the flesh. A lot of things thorn in the flesh. A lot of things thorn in the flesh. A lot of things could be listed, but he didn't tell us could be listed, but he didn't tell us could be listed, but he didn't tell us what it is, but there was some kind of what it is, but there was some kind of what it is, but there was some kind of an affliction, some kind of a problem an affliction, some kind of a problem an affliction, some kind of a problem that continued to bother the great that continued to bother the great that continued to bother the great Apostle Paul, and three times he prayed, Apostle Paul, and three times he prayed, Apostle Paul, and three times he prayed, "Lord, take it away." And by the way, "Lord, take it away." And by the way, "Lord, take it away." And by the way, there's nothing wrong with asking the there's nothing wrong with asking the there's nothing wrong with asking the Lord to take away your problem.

Lord to take away your problem. Lord to take away your problem. And sometimes he'll say, "Okay." And sometimes he'll say, "Okay." And sometimes he'll say, "Okay." And other times he'll say what he said And other times he'll say what he said And other times he'll say what he said to Paul, "And the Lord said to me," Paul to Paul, "And the Lord said to me," Paul to Paul, "And the Lord said to me," Paul says, "my grace is sufficient for you." says, "my grace is sufficient for you." says, "my grace is sufficient for you." Then Paul concludes with these words, Then Paul concludes with these words, Then Paul concludes with these words, "Therefore, I boast about my weakness, "Therefore, I boast about my weakness, "Therefore, I boast about my weakness, so the power of Christ may rest upon so the power of Christ may rest upon so the power of Christ may rest upon me." me." me." God allows hardship in our life many God allows hardship in our life many God allows hardship in our life many times so he can come through for you. times so he can come through for you. times so he can come through for you. Because when everything is going well, Because when everything is going well, Because when everything is going well, when all the lights are green, and the when all the lights are green, and the when all the lights are green, and the skies are blue, and the bills are paid, skies are blue, and the bills are paid, skies are blue, and the bills are paid, and there's not a single ache or pain in and there's not a single ache or pain in and there's not a single ache or pain in your body, you know what can happen? You your body, you know what can happen? You your body, you know what can happen? You can grow complacent, and you can forget can grow complacent, and you can forget can grow complacent, and you can forget God. Oh, don't tell me you can't. God. Oh, don't tell me you can't. God. Oh, don't tell me you can't. Because we all know what it's like. Because we all know what it's like. Because we all know what it's like. We just say, "Everything's good. I don't We just say, "Everything's good. I don't We just say, "Everything's good. I don't need to be praying. Maybe we'll skip need to be praying. Maybe we'll skip need to be praying. Maybe we'll skip church this Sunday, too. church this Sunday, too. church this Sunday, too. Oh, but when affliction comes, Oh, but when affliction comes, Oh, but when affliction comes, when hardship comes, let's go to church. when hardship comes, let's go to church. when hardship comes, let's go to church. That's okay. That's okay. That's okay. I'm glad you're here if if that brought I'm glad you're here if if that brought I'm glad you're here if if that brought you here today, some kind of problem you here today, some kind of problem you here today, some kind of problem affliction. Or let's get people to pray.

affliction. Or let's get people to pray. affliction. Or let's get people to pray. That's okay, too, cuz it's got you That's okay, too, cuz it's got you That's okay, too, cuz it's got you praying more. It's like the psalmist praying more. It's like the psalmist praying more. It's like the psalmist said, "Before I was afflicted, I went said, "Before I was afflicted, I went said, "Before I was afflicted, I went astray, but now I have kept your word." astray, but now I have kept your word." astray, but now I have kept your word." I think about a young man that I I think about a young man that I I think about a young man that I uh met uh met uh met uh a while ago. 16 years old, his name uh a while ago. 16 years old, his name uh a while ago. 16 years old, his name is Cannon. is Cannon. is Cannon. Cannon was living a great life. Cannon was living a great life. Cannon was living a great life. Everything going beautifully. Then he Everything going beautifully. Then he Everything going beautifully. Then he found out he had stage four liver found out he had stage four liver found out he had stage four liver cancer. cancer. cancer. In other words, it was very likely that In other words, it was very likely that In other words, it was very likely that Cannon would die. Cannon would die. Cannon would die. And uh so we heard about what he was And uh so we heard about what he was And uh so we heard about what he was facing and facing and facing and we asked him to come to church and we we asked him to come to church and we we asked him to come to church and we prayed for him in the service. Here's a prayed for him in the service. Here's a prayed for him in the service. Here's a photograph of us praying for him at photograph of us praying for him at photograph of us praying for him at Harvest Orange County. Here's a closer Harvest Orange County. Here's a closer Harvest Orange County. Here's a closer shot. shot. shot. Well, I don't have a current photo of Well, I don't have a current photo of Well, I don't have a current photo of Cannon. I wish I did because God heard Cannon. I wish I did because God heard Cannon. I wish I did because God heard our prayer and touched and healed this our prayer and touched and healed this our prayer and touched and healed this young man. >> And just yesterday down in Huntington >> And just yesterday down in Huntington Beach, they did an outreach with a bunch Beach, they did an outreach with a bunch Beach, they did an outreach with a bunch of young people and Cannon got up and of young people and Cannon got up and of young people and Cannon got up and gave his testimony and I love what he gave his testimony and I love what he gave his testimony and I love what he said. He said, "I was 16 years old when said. He said, "I was 16 years old when said. He said, "I was 16 years old when I found out I had stage four liver I found out I had stage four liver I found out I had stage four liver cancer and it's one of the best things cancer and it's one of the best things cancer and it's one of the best things that ever happened to me that ever happened to me that ever happened to me because it brought me to Jesus."

because it brought me to Jesus." because it brought me to Jesus." You see? >> There's nothing >> There's nothing more important than being brought to more important than being brought to more important than being brought to Jesus. And there's nothing more Jesus. And there's nothing more Jesus. And there's nothing more important than staying close to Jesus, important than staying close to Jesus, important than staying close to Jesus, you see? you see? you see? So we think, "No, no, the blessed life So we think, "No, no, the blessed life So we think, "No, no, the blessed life is a life where there's no conflict, is a life where there's no conflict, is a life where there's no conflict, there's no difficulty, everything's there's no difficulty, everything's there's no difficulty, everything's great." Well, that can be a blessed great." Well, that can be a blessed great." Well, that can be a blessed life, and if you're living that way life, and if you're living that way life, and if you're living that way right now, hallelujah, enjoy it cuz it right now, hallelujah, enjoy it cuz it right now, hallelujah, enjoy it cuz it won't last that long. won't last that long. won't last that long. But, something will come, something will But, something will come, something will But, something will come, something will happen that will cause you to once again happen that will cause you to once again happen that will cause you to once again be dependent on God and to call upon his be dependent on God and to call upon his be dependent on God and to call upon his name, name, name, and God will be glorified through your and God will be glorified through your and God will be glorified through your problem, through your illness, through problem, through your illness, through problem, through your illness, through your disability, and you can use it as a your disability, and you can use it as a your disability, and you can use it as a tool to help others who are also tool to help others who are also tool to help others who are also suffering. suffering. suffering. So, yes, when we get to heaven, So, yes, when we get to heaven, So, yes, when we get to heaven, we won't suffer anymore, but there are we won't suffer anymore, but there are we won't suffer anymore, but there are certain blessings that come with that certain blessings that come with that certain blessings that come with that suffering. suffering. suffering. Now, let me just close Now, let me just close Now, let me just close with some of the rewards that are going with some of the rewards that are going with some of the rewards that are going to be given to us in heaven, because the to be given to us in heaven, because the to be given to us in heaven, because the Bible does tell us Bible does tell us Bible does tell us that there are rewards given for that there are rewards given for that there are rewards given for faithful service. 1 Corinthians 3:8, faithful service. 1 Corinthians 3:8, faithful service. 1 Corinthians 3:8, "Each one of us will receive his own "Each one of us will receive his own "Each one of us will receive his own reward according to his own labor." You reward according to his own labor." You reward according to his own labor." You don't earn your way into heaven, don't earn your way into heaven, don't earn your way into heaven, but once you're on your way to heaven, but once you're on your way to heaven, but once you're on your way to heaven, the Bible says that you should live in the Bible says that you should live in the Bible says that you should live in such a way that God will reward you when such a way that God will reward you when such a way that God will reward you when you get there.

you get there. you get there. So, So, So, the reason I'm going to heaven is the reason I'm going to heaven is the reason I'm going to heaven is because I believed in Jesus and because I believed in Jesus and because I believed in Jesus and was a recipient of his grace and mercy, was a recipient of his grace and mercy, was a recipient of his grace and mercy, and he forgave me. and he forgave me. and he forgave me. But, now, with the life that I have here But, now, with the life that I have here But, now, with the life that I have here on earth, I want to do things for God's on earth, I want to do things for God's on earth, I want to do things for God's glory, so I'll have some rewards waiting glory, so I'll have some rewards waiting glory, so I'll have some rewards waiting in heaven. There are specific crowns in heaven. There are specific crowns in heaven. There are specific crowns identified in the Bible that God will identified in the Bible that God will identified in the Bible that God will give for faithful service. For instance, give for faithful service. For instance, give for faithful service. For instance, there's the imperishable crown. there's the imperishable crown. there's the imperishable crown. The imperishable crown, that's given for The imperishable crown, that's given for The imperishable crown, that's given for self-control and discipline living. self-control and discipline living. self-control and discipline living. Paul compares himself to an athlete Paul compares himself to an athlete Paul compares himself to an athlete training for a race, and he says, "They training for a race, and he says, "They training for a race, and he says, "They do it to obtain a perishable crown, but do it to obtain a perishable crown, but do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we do it for an imperishable crown. we do it for an imperishable crown. we do it for an imperishable crown. I don't think I ever won a single award I don't think I ever won a single award I don't think I ever won a single award trophy, not even a ribbon for athletic trophy, not even a ribbon for athletic trophy, not even a ribbon for athletic endeavors. And I competed, I tried, just endeavors. And I competed, I tried, just endeavors. And I competed, I tried, just never won anything. I have a friend that never won anything. I have a friend that never won anything. I have a friend that has so many ribbons he's won. So many I has so many ribbons he's won. So many I has so many ribbons he's won. So many I said, "If I had this, I'd wear them said, "If I had this, I'd wear them said, "If I had this, I'd wear them everywhere."

everywhere." everywhere." I'd look like Mr. T. You know, I But we get these awards You know, I But we get these awards maybe on our walls for academic maybe on our walls for academic maybe on our walls for academic achievement or because of our achievement or because of our achievement or because of our performance in some sport performance in some sport performance in some sport or in some other way. or in some other way. or in some other way. Uh but then there's the imperishable Uh but then there's the imperishable Uh but then there's the imperishable crown. And that's what's waiting for us crown. And that's what's waiting for us crown. And that's what's waiting for us when we discipline ourselves and live when we discipline ourselves and live when we discipline ourselves and live godly lives. Then there's a crown of godly lives. Then there's a crown of godly lives. Then there's a crown of rejoicing. That's for those who lead rejoicing. That's for those who lead rejoicing. That's for those who lead others to Christ. Paul says, "What is others to Christ. Paul says, "What is others to Christ. Paul says, "What is our hope or our joy or our crown of our hope or our joy or our crown of our hope or our joy or our crown of rejoicing? Is it not you in the presence rejoicing? Is it not you in the presence rejoicing? Is it not you in the presence of the Lord?" Can you imagine getting to of the Lord?" Can you imagine getting to of the Lord?" Can you imagine getting to heaven and meeting someone who says to heaven and meeting someone who says to heaven and meeting someone who says to you, "I came to Jesus because of your you, "I came to Jesus because of your you, "I came to Jesus because of your testimony." testimony." testimony." "I came to Jesus because you took the "I came to Jesus because you took the "I came to Jesus because you took the time to share the gospel with me on a time to share the gospel with me on a time to share the gospel with me on a street corner in Tucson, Arizona in 1980 street corner in Tucson, Arizona in 1980 street corner in Tucson, Arizona in 1980 4." 4." 4." "Well, I don't even remember that." "Well, I don't even remember that." "Well, I don't even remember that." "Well, I remember it "Well, I remember it "Well, I remember it because that was the day I believed in because that was the day I believed in because that was the day I believed in Jesus Christ and that's all recorded in Jesus Christ and that's all recorded in Jesus Christ and that's all recorded in heaven. God is aware of all these things heaven. God is aware of all these things heaven. God is aware of all these things that are done. That's why he says, "Your that are done. That's why he says, "Your that are done. That's why he says, "Your Father who sees you in secret will Father who sees you in secret will Father who sees you in secret will reward you openly."

reward you openly." reward you openly." So that faithfulness is known by the So that faithfulness is known by the So that faithfulness is known by the Lord. Then there's a that great crown Lord. Then there's a that great crown Lord. Then there's a that great crown that he gives to all of us. It's that he gives to all of us. It's that he gives to all of us. It's sometimes called the soul winner's sometimes called the soul winner's sometimes called the soul winner's crown. So this is going to be given to crown. So this is going to be given to crown. So this is going to be given to us as well. But then there's the crown us as well. But then there's the crown us as well. But then there's the crown of righteousness. This is given to the of righteousness. This is given to the of righteousness. This is given to the person who looks forward to the return person who looks forward to the return person who looks forward to the return of Jesus. of Jesus. of Jesus. Paul says, "I fought the good fight. I Paul says, "I fought the good fight. I Paul says, "I fought the good fight. I kept the faith. I finished the course. kept the faith. I finished the course. kept the faith. I finished the course. Henceforth, there is laid up for me a Henceforth, there is laid up for me a Henceforth, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, crown of righteousness, which the Lord, crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me in the righteous judge, will give to me in the righteous judge, will give to me in that day, and not to me only, but to all that day, and not to me only, but to all that day, and not to me only, but to all who love his appearing." who love his appearing." who love his appearing." What does it mean to love his appearing? What does it mean to love his appearing? What does it mean to love his appearing? It means you look forward to the return It means you look forward to the return It means you look forward to the return of Jesus. of Jesus. of Jesus. How many of you are looking forward to How many of you are looking forward to How many of you are looking forward to the return of Jesus? Okay, you have a the return of Jesus? Okay, you have a the return of Jesus? Okay, you have a crown waiting for you. You have a crown waiting for you on the You have a crown waiting for you on the other side. And that's a great hope that other side. And that's a great hope that other side. And that's a great hope that we have. And finally, the crown of life we have. And finally, the crown of life we have. And finally, the crown of life for those who persevere for those who persevere for those who persevere through temptation and trial.

through temptation and trial. through temptation and trial. For those who persevere through For those who persevere through For those who persevere through temptation and trial, James 1:12 says, temptation and trial, James 1:12 says, temptation and trial, James 1:12 says, "Blessed is the man who endures "Blessed is the man who endures "Blessed is the man who endures temptation, for when he has been temptation, for when he has been temptation, for when he has been approved, he'll receive the crown of approved, he'll receive the crown of approved, he'll receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to life, which the Lord has promised to life, which the Lord has promised to those who love him." The crown of life. those who love him." The crown of life. those who love him." The crown of life. So, So, So, every temptation you've resisted. How every temptation you've resisted. How every temptation you've resisted. How many of you have ever been tempted to many of you have ever been tempted to many of you have ever been tempted to sin? Raise your hand. sin? Raise your hand. sin? Raise your hand. Okay. You are a sinful bunch of people. Okay. You are a sinful bunch of people. Okay. You are a sinful bunch of people. So glad you're in church today. So glad you're in church today. So glad you're in church today. How many of you have resisted the How many of you have resisted the How many of you have resisted the temptation to sin? Raise your hand. I temptation to sin? Raise your hand. I temptation to sin? Raise your hand. I hope as many hands go up. But hope as many hands go up. But hope as many hands go up. But interestingly, not as many hands. interestingly, not as many hands. interestingly, not as many hands. But you know what? Every temptation But you know what? Every temptation But you know what? Every temptation you've resisted, you've resisted, you've resisted, God noted. Well done. God noted. Well done. God noted. Well done. Well done. Well done. Well done. He has a crown waiting for you because He has a crown waiting for you because He has a crown waiting for you because you've done that. Or the trial you've you've done that. Or the trial you've you've done that. Or the trial you've gone through. Some people go through gone through. Some people go through gone through. Some people go through extraordinary trials and hardship in extraordinary trials and hardship in extraordinary trials and hardship in life. I can't explain it. life. I can't explain it. life. I can't explain it. Like, why did that happen to them?

Like, why did that happen to them? Like, why did that happen to them? This godly man, this godly woman having This godly man, this godly woman having This godly man, this godly woman having to go through life with that severe to go through life with that severe to go through life with that severe disability, or that great difficulty, or disability, or that great difficulty, or disability, or that great difficulty, or that loss of a loved one, or something that loss of a loved one, or something that loss of a loved one, or something else. Why, Lord? I don't know the answer else. Why, Lord? I don't know the answer else. Why, Lord? I don't know the answer to that. I know one day all these to that. I know one day all these to that. I know one day all these questions will be answered. questions will be answered. questions will be answered. I know one day we'll look back and we'll I know one day we'll look back and we'll I know one day we'll look back and we'll see it all and go, "Oh, now I get it. see it all and go, "Oh, now I get it. see it all and go, "Oh, now I get it. Now I understand." But for you that have Now I understand." But for you that have Now I understand." But for you that have gone through these things or you that gone through these things or you that gone through these things or you that are going through these things, God's are going through these things, God's are going through these things, God's going to give you a special reward and a going to give you a special reward and a going to give you a special reward and a special crown in that final day. special crown in that final day. special crown in that final day. All right. What are we going to do with All right. What are we going to do with All right. What are we going to do with these crowns? Just walk around wearing these crowns? Just walk around wearing these crowns? Just walk around wearing them. I got more crowns than you. them. I got more crowns than you. them. I got more crowns than you. I think I got about five crowns here. I think I got about five crowns here. I think I got about five crowns here. Looks like you have one. Looks like you have one. Looks like you have one. Maybe someone doesn't even have one. I Maybe someone doesn't even have one. I Maybe someone doesn't even have one. I know that We're not getting these know that We're not getting these know that We're not getting these rewards to boast. In fact, we read in rewards to boast. In fact, we read in rewards to boast. In fact, we read in Revelation Revelation Revelation uh chapter 4 of the elders, the 24 uh chapter 4 of the elders, the 24 uh chapter 4 of the elders, the 24 elders casting their crowns before the elders casting their crowns before the elders casting their crowns before the Lord.

Lord. Lord. Saying, "Worthy are you, Lord, to Saying, "Worthy are you, Lord, to Saying, "Worthy are you, Lord, to receive glory and honor for you have receive glory and honor for you have receive glory and honor for you have created all things and for your pleasure created all things and for your pleasure created all things and for your pleasure they are and were created." So, why Why they are and were created." So, why Why they are and were created." So, why Why do we have these crowns? Lord, I just do we have these crowns? Lord, I just do we have these crowns? Lord, I just wanted to lay this down at your feet. wanted to lay this down at your feet. wanted to lay this down at your feet. And I wanted to thank you for all that And I wanted to thank you for all that And I wanted to thank you for all that you did for me. No, I can never pay you you did for me. No, I can never pay you you did for me. No, I can never pay you back. back. back. But this is my way of just saying, But this is my way of just saying, But this is my way of just saying, "Lord, thank you. I did what I could do "Lord, thank you. I did what I could do "Lord, thank you. I did what I could do with my life for your glory." Don't you with my life for your glory." Don't you with my life for your glory." Don't you want to say that one day? want to say that one day? want to say that one day? Don't you want to hear Jesus >> [applause] >> [applause] >> Don't you want to hear Jesus say, "Well >> Don't you want to hear Jesus say, "Well >> Don't you want to hear Jesus say, "Well done, good and faithful servant. done, good and faithful servant. done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Lord." Enter into the joy of your Lord." Enter into the joy of your Lord." So, let's conclude. One day that other So, let's conclude. One day that other So, let's conclude. One day that other shoe is going to drop. shoe is going to drop. shoe is going to drop. The only question that will matter is, The only question that will matter is, The only question that will matter is, will you be ready when it happens? will you be ready when it happens? will you be ready when it happens? Jesus could come back at any moment. He Jesus could come back at any moment. He Jesus could come back at any moment. He could come back today. He could come could come back today. He could come could come back today. He could come back tonight. I honestly believe that back tonight. I honestly believe that back tonight. I honestly believe that with all of my heart.

with all of my heart. with all of my heart. But then again, But then again, But then again, death could come knocking. We don't know death could come knocking. We don't know death could come knocking. We don't know when that's going to happen. when that's going to happen. when that's going to happen. That's why we need to always be ready. I That's why we need to always be ready. I That's why we need to always be ready. I said something earlier, live every day said something earlier, live every day said something earlier, live every day as though it were your last day because as though it were your last day because as though it were your last day because someday it will be. someday it will be. someday it will be. So be ready. Be ready for the Lord's So be ready. Be ready for the Lord's So be ready. Be ready for the Lord's return or be ready to meet the Lord. And return or be ready to meet the Lord. And return or be ready to meet the Lord. And I ask you in closing, I ask you in closing, I ask you in closing, if this were your last day, if this were if this were your last day, if this were if this were your last day, if this were your last sermon you ever heard, your last sermon you ever heard, your last sermon you ever heard, if this were your last time to attend if this were your last time to attend if this were your last time to attend church and after this it would be your church and after this it would be your church and after this it would be your last meal, last meal, last meal, would you be ready to meet the Lord? Do would you be ready to meet the Lord? Do would you be ready to meet the Lord? Do you know that when you die you will go you know that when you die you will go you know that when you die you will go to heaven? Are you sure you're ready for to heaven? Are you sure you're ready for to heaven? Are you sure you're ready for the return of Jesus? You say, "Well, I the return of Jesus? You say, "Well, I the return of Jesus? You say, "Well, I actually honestly I don't I'm not. No, actually honestly I don't I'm not. No, actually honestly I don't I'm not. No, what do I do? Tell me. I'm all ears." what do I do? Tell me. I'm all ears." what do I do? Tell me. I'm all ears." Okay, admit you're a sinner, Okay, admit you're a sinner, Okay, admit you're a sinner, you've broken God's commandments, you've you've broken God's commandments, you've you've broken God's commandments, you've fallen short of his standards, recognize fallen short of his standards, recognize fallen short of his standards, recognize Jesus Christ died on the cross for your Jesus Christ died on the cross for your Jesus Christ died on the cross for your sin and rose again 3 days later. sin and rose again 3 days later. sin and rose again 3 days later. And now turn from your sin, repent of And now turn from your sin, repent of And now turn from your sin, repent of your sin as the Bible says, and ask your sin as the Bible says, and ask your sin as the Bible says, and ask Christ to come into your life to be your Christ to come into your life to be your Christ to come into your life to be your savior and your Lord. And when you do savior and your Lord. And when you do savior and your Lord. And when you do that, you will be ready for the Lord's that, you will be ready for the Lord's that, you will be ready for the Lord's return. Would you like to do that? If return. Would you like to do that? If return. Would you like to do that? If you haven't, I'm going to close now with you haven't, I'm going to close now with you haven't, I'm going to close now with a prayer.

a prayer. a prayer. And I'm going to give you an opportunity And I'm going to give you an opportunity And I'm going to give you an opportunity to make sure that you're ready for the to make sure that you're ready for the to make sure that you're ready for the Lord's return and to be sure you're Lord's return and to be sure you're Lord's return and to be sure you're ready ready ready to go to heaven. Let's all pray now. to go to heaven. Let's all pray now. to go to heaven. Let's all pray now. Father, I pray for every person here, Father, I pray for every person here, Father, I pray for every person here, every person listening to this message every person listening to this message every person listening to this message wherever they are, if they don't know wherever they are, if they don't know wherever they are, if they don't know you yet, let this be the moment they you yet, let this be the moment they you yet, let this be the moment they believe. believe. believe. Let this be the moment they put their Let this be the moment they put their Let this be the moment they put their faith in Jesus Christ. Speak to them faith in Jesus Christ. Speak to them faith in Jesus Christ. Speak to them right now. right now. right now. Now when our heads are bowed Now when our heads are bowed Now when our heads are bowed and our eyes are closed and we're and our eyes are closed and we're and our eyes are closed and we're praying together, praying together, praying together, how many of you would say today, "Greg, how many of you would say today, "Greg, how many of you would say today, "Greg, pray for me. pray for me. pray for me. I want to go to heaven when I die. I want to go to heaven when I die. I want to go to heaven when I die. I want to be ready for the Lord's I want to be ready for the Lord's I want to be ready for the Lord's return. return. return. I'm ready to say yes to Jesus Christ. I'm ready to say yes to Jesus Christ. I'm ready to say yes to Jesus Christ. Pray for me. If that's your desire, Pray for me. If that's your desire, Pray for me. If that's your desire, if you want Christ to come into your if you want Christ to come into your if you want Christ to come into your life, life, life, if you want to go to heaven when you if you want to go to heaven when you if you want to go to heaven when you die, die, die, if you want to be ready for the Lord's if you want to be ready for the Lord's if you want to be ready for the Lord's return, would you just lift up your hand return, would you just lift up your hand return, would you just lift up your hand wherever you are and let me pray for wherever you are and let me pray for wherever you are and let me pray for you. Lift your hand up high and I'll you. Lift your hand up high and I'll you. Lift your hand up high and I'll pray for you. God bless you. God bless pray for you. God bless you. God bless pray for you. God bless you. God bless you. God bless you and you. Anybody you. God bless you and you. Anybody you. God bless you and you. Anybody else? Raise your hand up. God bless you else? Raise your hand up. God bless you else? Raise your hand up. God bless you and you and you.

and you and you. and you and you. Wherever you are, raise your hand up. Wherever you are, raise your hand up. Wherever you are, raise your hand up. I'll pray for you today. I'll pray for you today. I'll pray for you today. God bless you. Now, I'm going to ask God bless you. Now, I'm going to ask God bless you. Now, I'm going to ask every one of you that raised your hand, every one of you that raised your hand, every one of you that raised your hand, if you would please, I want you to stand if you would please, I want you to stand if you would please, I want you to stand to your feet and I'm going to lead you to your feet and I'm going to lead you to your feet and I'm going to lead you in a prayer. Stand to your feet. If you in a prayer. Stand to your feet. If you in a prayer. Stand to your feet. If you raised your hand, even if you did not, raised your hand, even if you did not, raised your hand, even if you did not, but you want Jesus Christ to come into but you want Jesus Christ to come into but you want Jesus Christ to come into your life, your life, your life, >> [applause] >> why are you clapping? You're supposed to >> why are you clapping? You're supposed to be praying. be praying. be praying. >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> [laughter] >> Anybody else? If you raised your hand, >> Anybody else? If you raised your hand, >> Anybody else? If you raised your hand, even if you did not, but you want the even if you did not, but you want the even if you did not, but you want the Lord to come into your life today, stand Lord to come into your life today, stand Lord to come into your life today, stand up and let me lead you in this prayer. up and let me lead you in this prayer. up and let me lead you in this prayer. Anybody else? Stand to your feet now and Anybody else? Stand to your feet now and Anybody else? Stand to your feet now and we'll pray together. God bless you. we'll pray together. God bless you. we'll pray together. God bless you. All right, all of you that are standing, All right, all of you that are standing, All right, all of you that are standing, I want you to pray this prayer out loud I want you to pray this prayer out loud I want you to pray this prayer out loud after me. Again, after me. Again, after me. Again, you that are standing, pray this prayer you that are standing, pray this prayer you that are standing, pray this prayer out loud after me. Pray these words now. out loud after me. Pray these words now. out loud after me. Pray these words now. Lord Jesus, Lord Jesus, Lord Jesus, I know that I'm a sinner, I know that I'm a sinner, I know that I'm a sinner, but I know that you're the savior but I know that you're the savior but I know that you're the savior who died on the cross for my sin who died on the cross for my sin who died on the cross for my sin and rose again from the dead.

and rose again from the dead. and rose again from the dead. I turn from that sin now I turn from that sin now I turn from that sin now and I choose to follow you and I choose to follow you and I choose to follow you from this moment forward. from this moment forward. from this moment forward. Thank you for hearing this prayer and Thank you for hearing this prayer and Thank you for hearing this prayer and answering it. answering it. answering it. In Jesus' name I pray. In Jesus' name I pray. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. God bless each one of you that Amen. God bless each one of you that Amen. God bless each one of you that prayed that prayer. prayed that prayer. prayed that prayer. God bless you, guys. God bless you, guys. God bless you, guys. God bless you.