Waiting and Watching

Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview 

While you wait for Jesus’ return, remain watchful.

I. Expect deception, and watch with discernment (vv. 8-9)

II. Expect opposition, and watch for provision (vv. 10-19)

III. Expect distress, and watch with anticipation (vv. 20-28)

IV. Expect distraction, and watch through prayer (vv. 29-36)

Digging Deeper    

Read Luke 21:5-38

1. The first thing Jesus says about the temple - the Jews’ most sacred and holy space - is “Don’t get too attached to this.” How do you think that would have landed with his hearers? About what in your life would you dislike hearing Jesus say, “Don’t get too attached to this”? 

2. For some of us, it can be easy to get concerned that world events will usher in the apocalypse. How do we guard against catastrophic thinking about the end times and trust God’s timing? 

3. What sort of opposition have you personally faced for your faith, and how can you use this as an opportunity to bear witness to Christ? Jesus says he will “give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict” (21:15).

4. Jesus says that when signs of the end take place, believers don’t have to tremble because their redemption is drawing near. How does this truth particularly encourage you today? 

5. What does it mean that redemption has been fully accomplished, but not yet fully applied? What aspects of future redemption might we be able to look forward to? 

6. Take something that is distressing you now (or has distressed you in the past). How can you use this distress to deepen your anticipation for the life to come? Help each other work this out.

7. What distractions do you need to watch for in yourself? What can we watch for in one another? 

8. We’ve all experienced things that pull us away from prayer. What steps can you take today to fight what keeps you from prayer?

9. In a world of distractions, what practices (including prayer) can help us stay focused on what matters?

Prayer