Study Questions for May 11, 2025

Read Matthew 24:32-51

What word would you use to describe the tone of this passage?
What word would you use to summarize the activity of the passage?

Discerning the Signs: Based on the parable of the fig tree (Matthew 24:32-35), what does Jesus teach about recognizing the signs of His return? How can we apply this to our daily lives to stay spiritually attentive?

Unexpected Return: In Matthew 24:36-39, Jesus compares His return to the days of Noah. There are different views of interpreting the images in this passage, but the applications are clear to us. How should this impact our priorities and actions within our current situation?

Personal Readiness: The imagery of one being taken and one left (Matthew 24:40-41) highlights division at Christ’s return. Consider a similar usage of the word translated "taken away" in John 19:16. Notice the difficulty in determining what kind of person is taken here (righteous or unrighteous). Without being certain, what is the principle we can all agree on that rises from this passage?

Staying Vigilant: In these two verses, Jesus moves from the natural illustration of 24:32-35 to an unsettling illustration of preparedness. How much of your prayer life is spent considering the moment you will meet the Lord? What feelings rise within you as you do so? Evaluate your emotions in light of Romans 8:1 and Hebrews 9:27-28.

Faithful Service: In the parable of the faithful and wicked servants (Matthew 24:45-51), what contrasts do we see between the two servants’ attitudes and actions? In what manner of living do you want Christ to find you when He calls?