And Jesus answered and said to them, “See to it that no one misleads you.” Matthew 24:4

Every one of us has a story --- memories from our childhood, personal stories about people and events that have shaped us. But we are also part of a larger story. Acts 17:26 tells us that God has determined the time we would live in. God put each of us on the earth at this moment in time. If the Lord’s return is approaching, our personal stories are going to be immersed in His greater story. Jesus doesn’t want us to be caught by surprise. He spent precious moments just before His death teaching His disciples how to recognize the signs of His return.

This week we looked at the very earliest signs of His coming. Jesus called them the beginning of birth pangs. They can be easily missed.

After you have seen the video for Lesson 2...

Reflect
Focus upon Matthew 24:5-8 as you consider these questions.
• In the Olivet Discourse, Jesus gives us specific signs that will let us know when we are in “the early stages of labor” that will lead to His return, Matthew 24:5-8. Do you think we are there yet?

• How are you cultivating your sensitivity to the Lord?

• Would you say He leads you with His eye? Psalm 32:8

• What are some ways that you can cultivate your faithfulness to Him?
Psalm 37:3-7

• Do you know His voice so well that you will not follow another?
John 10:4-5

Respond
Write out a prayer to the Lord, thanking Him for the security that is yours because He holds you in the palm of His hand. John 10:27-29 Ask Him to let you recognize His voice when He speaks to you. Wait on Him.

Read for Next Lesson:
Matthew 24:9-28
II Thessalonians
Daniel 9