IIT UBF - University Bible Fellowship at IIT

Daily Bread

The Coming of the Kingdom of God

Date: Sep. 21, 2017

Passage

Luke 21:29-38  (ESV)

29 And he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. 30 As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. 31 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

34 “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. 35 For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 36 But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

37 And every day he was teaching in the temple, but at night he went out and lodged on the mount called Olivet. 38 And early in the morning all the people came to him in the temple to hear him.

Daily Bread

Key Verse: 21:31

So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near.

1. See for yourselves (29-33)

The sprouting of leaves on the fig tree and all the trees is an unmistakable sign that summer is near. Likewise, when all the events Jesus described occur, we can know for ourselves that the kingdom of God is near and Jesus will come soon. Everything Jesus described will happen in all its fullness. Although heaven and earth will pass away, Jesus' words will remain forever. They are absolute and true.

2. Watch and pray (34-38)

In light of his second coming, Jesus admonishes us to be sober, watchful, and prayerful. Jesus teaches that we should be careful of slipping into a lifestyle of carousing and drunkenness and we must avoid being overcome with the anxieties of this life. Instead, we are to be watchful and constantly looking for the signs of his return. We are to pray that we may escape all the events of the tribulation and remain faithful to the Lord. Each day, the Lord went to the temple and taught the people and they came early in the morning to listen to him. Praise Jesus that we can do the same! Every morning, we can listen to him and wait with him for the great day he returns.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for teaching us about the things that must occur before you return. Help us to be watchful and prayerful as we wait for you.

One Word: The kingdom of God is near.

Daily Bread

Set Apart for God’s Work

Acts 12:25-13:12

Key Verse: 12:13:2

And when he knocked at the door of the gateway, a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer.

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Intro Daily