THE COMING OF THE LORD, STUDY GUIDE
Copyright © 1995 Trumpet Ministries, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Table of Contents
The Day of the LordANSWERS
Introductory Scripture Page
Events Associated With the Coming of the Lord
A Vision
A Reflection
The Day of the Lord
Introductory Scripture Page
Events Associated With the Coming of the Lord
A Vision
A Reflection
QUESTIONS
Foreword—The Day of the Lord
1. Does the history of the Christian Church teach us that God’s people are never called on to endure tribulation?
2. Does the Apostle Paul teach us that the Day of Christ will come before or after the great apostasy and the revealing of the man of sin?
3. What will happen to Antichrist when Christ returns to earth?
4. What is the ancient hope of the saints?
Introductory Scripture Page
1. Read II Thessalonians 1:7-10; Matthew 24:3
THE COMING OF THE LORD
Events Associated with the Coming of the Lord
1. Of the four Gospel accounts, which three contain Jesus’ prophecy concerning the events that will take place before He returns to earth?
2. Of what two things is Herod’s Temple symbolic?
3. Who was glorified by Herod’s Temple?
4. What does our human nature desire to accomplish?
5. What two competing kings desire to be enthroned in our heart?
6. What examines and tests our works?
7. What portion of our life’s work will endure?
8. Of what is each Christian being created an inseparable part?
9. What was the first question the three disciples asked?
10. What were the second and third questions?
11. What is the subject of the twenty-fourth chapter of Matthew?
12. What is the “blessed hope” of the Church of Christ?
13. Read Matthew 24:4,5.
14. What will the adversary seek to do before the Lord returns?
15. What will characterize the last days of the present age?
16. Read Matthew 24:6.
17. Are wars and rumors of wars the sign that the end is here?
18. Read Matthew 24:7,8.
19. How else may sorrows be translated?
20. Read Romans 8:20,21.
21. What is about to come to harvest?
22. What is the Kingdom of God?
23. Why are wars and other troubles necessary?
24. What is the only freedom available to mankind?
25. What is it that knocks down every “stone” of our life?
26. Where is the only place we can find rest?
27. Read Matthew 24:9.
28. Why does the world hate the elect?
29. Read Matthew 24:10
30. What happens to the churches when persecution arises?
31. What can be said of the believers who stand true during persecution?
32. Read Matthew 24:11.
33. Do you believe that Christ’s message to His people in the present hour is that they will never be called on to stand firm in difficult times?
34. Read Matthew 24:12.
35. What does suffering accomplish in the saint?
36. What is the most formidable foe facing the Christian people in the closing days of the present age?
37. What can lead the saint astray?
38. Do you believe we can enjoy all the pleasures of the world and then reign with Christ at His appearing? Give Scripture for your belief.
39. Read Matthew 24:13.
40. After we become a Christian, what kind of life is there to be lived?
41. What do we win by our perseverance in faithfulness?
42. Read Matthew 24:14.
43. What are wars, rumors of wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes?
44. What will happen after the Gospel of the Kingdom has been preached in all the world for a witness to all nations?
45. What is the Gospel?
46. Who will prepare the way for the Lord’s return to earth?
47. Read Joel 2:23; Hosea 6:3; Zechariah 10:1.
48. Why must the “harvest rain” be poured on the earth?
49. What must come after the “harvest rain”?
50. What will come to maturity side by side?
51. What will the messengers of God do in the end time?
52. Read Matthew 24:15; I John 2:18: Matthew 13:30.
53. Where is Antichrist likely to come from?
54. Read I John 2:19.
55. What will Antichrist be?
56. How do we know that the Day of Christ is not here as yet?
57. Who is God’s Law, God’s Word in human form?
58. What are people being taught today in educational institutions?
59. What should we be fleeing from today?
60. What will be one of the characteristics of the reign of Antichrist?
61. What spirits already are at work in the world?
62. What is the meaning of “666”?
63. What does the “mark” in the “right hand” represent?
64. What does the “mark” in the “foreheads” represent?
65. Of what will Antichrist be the incarnation?
66. What will take place before the rise of Antichrist?
67. Where is it possible that the man of sin will be seated?
68. What may he declare himself to be?
69. What are boys and girls being taught today?
70. What must we do if we are to escape the spirit of Antichrist that is present today?
71. Is the Spirit of God ready at this time for someone to declare himself to be the God of Heaven?
72. What acts as a restraint on the abomination of man proclaiming himself to be God?
73. Of what is King Herod a terrifying example?
74. Why will the Lord Jesus allow the horrid abomination to exist for a season?
75. What is at work on every side today?
76. What type of government is being advocated in some areas of the world in our day?
77. What is being steadily removed from mankind?
78. What will take place in the earth because of the flowering of iniquity?
79. What will be true of the Lord’s saints in that day?
80. What will be true of the “Christian” churches that will be allowed to exist under the reign of Antichrist?
81. What restraining influence will be removed from the civilized areas of the earth?
82. Who will assist the saints in that day?
83. What will be overcome by Antichrist before the Lord returns?
84. Who are the remnant of the seed of the woman (Revelation 12:17)?
85. Of what are Elijah and Elisha a type?
86. What is it that will be overcome during the days of Antichrist?
87. What is the condition of the Christian Church, the Body of Christ, today?
88. What must the saints do in this hour?
89. What will take place during the darkest hour of earth’s history?
90. What will happen to the saints during the rule of Antichrist?
91. What will be given to Christian people who live a victorious life in Christ throughout the rule of Antichrist?
92. To whom are the greatest of the rewards assigned?
93. What is the “abomination of desolation”?
94. What does the Lord teach us continually?
95. What is produced when man sits on the throne?
96. What will Antichrist sponsor?
97. What will happen to many Christian people because of Antichrist’s professed concern for the welfare of human beings?
98. What does human leadership apart from God always produce?
99. What will come to pass as soon as the man of sin declares that he is God?
100. What will Antichrist attempt to do, after the manner of King Herod?
101. What should Christian people always be prepared to do?
102. What will Christ do at His glorious appearing?
103. What are two of the principal themes of the Lord’s prophecy concerning His coming?
104. How are the elect always to live in this world?
105. What are three occasions on which the elect are to flee?
106. When was the first “fleeing”?
107. What is yet to come?
108. What is the second occasion for fleeing?
109. When will the great tribulation occur?
110. In what two phases will the Day of Vengeance of our God be exercised?
111. What would happen if the great tribulation were not shortened in time?
112. Why will those days be shortened?
113. Against whom is the Divine wrath directed?
114. During what general period of time will the great tribulation take place?
115. What will be true of the salvation of the righteous, in that day?
116. Are we to attempt to bring all of our belongings with us?
117. Will God hear and answer our prayers when we pray to Him in the day of trouble?
118. Why must every Christian person, young and old, hold lightly to the things of the world?
119. Does the Lord ever direct people to move in order to protect them from danger?
120. What must be the daily expectancy of each disciple?
121. What is the third occasion for fleeing?
122. Who are we to remember when the Lord calls us out of this world?
123. What can we learn from the episodes of Noah and Lot?
124. What will govern our ability to take the final, decisive step of faith at the moment of the Lord’s appearing?
125. Of what is Noah a type?
126. Will the Noah-Christians be prepared in advance for the Lord’s return?
127. How did Noah save himself and his household?
128. How does the Christian save himself and his household?
129. Was Noah warned just before the flood?
130. Will the saints be warned in advance of catastrophe?
131. Were Noah and Abraham saved to exceedingly great fruitfulness?
132. What did Lot do that brought him close to destruction?
133. What must the saint do who is directed by the Lord to live in the midst of wickedness?
134. Did Lot know of the coming judgment?
135. How did Lot’s family respond to his warning to flee with him?
136. How did Noah’s family respond to his warning to come into the Ark with him?
137. Why did the two families behave differently?
138. What saved Lot?
139. Was the Lord able to find ten righteous men in Sodom?
140. Of whom is Lot a type?
141. What destroyed Lot’s wife?
142. In what two different kinds of situations can a Christian choose to live?
143. Why is it dangerous for a person to count on being saved “as by fire”?
144. Would Jesus warn us to “remember Lot’s wife” if there were no danger of our hesitating in unbelief at the moment of His calling of His saints to meet Him in the air?
145. Of what is Lot an example?
146. Will the victorious Christian be overtaken as a thief by the Day of the Lord?
147. Will the righteous be able to save the unrighteous at the moment of the Lord’s return?
148. Will the lukewarm Christian be overtaken as a thief by the Day of the Lord?
149. When do we prepare for our Lord’s return?
150. Did Noah have to take some steps of faith at the moment of judgment?
151. Did Lot have to take some steps at the moment of judgment?
152. Why were the citizens of Sodom caught by surprise?
153. What were the things that prevented—and will yet prevent—an awareness of coming judgment, an understanding of the mind of the Lord?
154. To what did the people of Sodom turn their attention?
155. What happens when a nation abandons itself to lust?
156. What will take place during the remainder of the twentieth century?
157. How do we slay our spiritual life?
158. What will control our steps when the Lord Jesus descends from Heaven with the holy angels?
159. How is our faith and consecration of today related to our faith during the Day of the Lord?
160. When does correct doctrine save us?
161. Read Luke 17:29-37. 162. According to Luke 17:29-37, what will happen when the righteous are called out of the cities of the earth?
163. How do Christians live?
164. What will be true, when the Lord comes, of the believers who are not living by Christ’s life?
165. What kind of spiritual environment will be on the earth when the Lord is revealed?
166. Will it be evident, at the time of the return of the Lord, that something unusual is to take place?
167. What has Jesus warned us to be careful to do?
168. When do we determine our eternal destiny?
169. If we are not gathering to Jesus, what are we doing?
170. What will be true of us if we become occupied with the things of the world?
171. To what should we be giving our whole attention?
172. Read Matthew 24:20,21. 173. Where is the place of protection from every plague and pestilence?
174. When will Psalms 34, 37, and 91 have their most complete fulfillment?
175. What does John 17:15 teach us?
176. What does Matthew 24:20 reveal to us?
177. What was foreshadowed by the destruction of the Jews in the first century?
178. Whom is Jesus addressing, in the twenty-fourth chapter of Matthew?
179. Who are God’s elect, according to the New Testament writings?
180. Read Matthew 24:22.
181. During the great tribulation, what will take place because of the prayers of God’s elect?
182. Read Matthew 24:23-25.
183. Why do people follow false Christs and false prophets?
184. What belief prepares the believers for deception and heartbreaking spiritual collapse?
185. What does tribulation accomplish in us?
186. What is true of the wrath of God?
187. How do we know that there will be no secret appearing of the Lord?
188. What will be true of us if we abide in the “secret place of the most High”?
189. Who preaches ease and pleasure to the Christian saints?
190. To what does Antichrist appeal?
191. What will Christ’s coming be like?
192. Read Matthew 24:26.
193. In addition to the earthwide flashings of lightning, what sounds will ensure that everyone on earth becomes aware that Christ has arrived?
194. Will the flashing of lightning and the shout and trumpet blast be secretive?
195. In what way will Christ’s coming be as a thief in the night?
196. Who will accompany Christ at His appearing?
197. Read Matthew 24:27.
198. What power will pluck the saints from the face of the earth?
199. Why will the remorse of the people left on the earth be unbearable?
200. What will the leaders of the earth be required to confront in the Day of the Lord?
201. What will be true of those who have assisted the Lord’s witnesses?
202. Read Revelation 6:15-17.
203. Read Matthew 24:28.
204. What will happen to every person on earth who has learned to live by the broken body and shed blood of Christ?
205. Read Matthew 24:29.
206. When can we look for the coming of the Lord?
207. Who will be saved?
208. What was true of the Israelites in Goshen?
209. Can God protect a believer in the midst of trouble?
210. What are the four great signs of the nearness of the Lord’s coming?
211. What is Christ ready to do today?
212. What has been set before the believers?
213. What is the Holy Spirit ready to do?
214. What will happen to those who are claiming to be saints but who actually are lovers of self?
215. What will God show in His time?
216. Who will Christ guard from the hour of “temptation” that is to come on all the world?
217. Read Revelation 3:10; 1:9.
218. What was the Apostle John given because of his willingness to go with Christ outside the camp of civilization?
219. How can we gain “eternal security”?
220. What will take place before the appearing of the Lord?
221. What church is appearing even now on the horizon?
222. What is the promise to the victorious saint of the Laodicean period?
223. Read Revelation 3:21; 20:4. 224. Read Hosea 6:3; Zechariah 10:1. 225. What must every saint do today?
226. Read Matthew 24:30.
227. For what should we be preparing ourselves, and those around us, in the present hour?
228. Read Matthew 24:31; Revelation 11:15; I Thessalonians 4:16; I Corinthians 15:52.
229. According to Romans 11:7, does the nation of Israel as such constitute the “elect”?
230. Read Romans 8:33; Colossians 3:12; Titus 1:1.
231. On the basis of the preceding three verses, whom does the New Testament consider to be God’s “elect”?
232. Who will be gathered together “after the tribulation of those days”?
233. Read Matthew 24:32-34.
234. Who compose “this generation”?
235. Read Matthew 24:35; Revelation 20:11.
236. What will be preserved intact when the present universe is but a dim memory?
237. Read Matthew 24:36.
238. What was finished in detail before the creation of the world?
239. Read Matthew 24:37-39; 13:30.
240. How do we know the righteous will not be “raptured” before the Day of Judgment?
241. Who will administer the judgment of God in the last days?
242. Read Psalms 149:6-9; II Thessalonians 1:7-9.
243. What passage of Scripture informs us that the wheat and the tares will continue to work side by side until the moment of the Lord’s appearing?
244. What will take place on the earth at the coming of the Lord?
245. What will each person do when the trumpet of the Lord sounds?
246. Why did the five virgins not walk in the Spirit of God?
247. How do the foolish regard the wise?
248. Will the wise be able to assist the foolish in the Day of the Lord?
249. Who went in with the Lord to the marriage?
250. When do we make ourselves ready for the Lord’s coming?
251. What can be said of us if we do not prepare ourselves today for the Lord’s coming?
252. What are the five most dreadful words ever uttered in any language?
253. Who will be inside the walls of the Kingdom of God?
254. Who will be outside the walls of the Kingdom of God?
255. Did Jesus ever raise the question of doctrinal belief when discussing the fate of people in the Day of the Lord?
256. What question shall be raised in the Day of the Lord?
257. How shall we be saved?
258. What choice are we making right now?
259. How much time will we have to prepare ourselves when the Lord comes?
260. Read Matthew 24:42.
261. What are we to keep under control at all times?
262. Read Matthew 24:43,44.
263. What may happen to us, if we are not diligent, after we have experienced a first burning love for Christ?
264. What may Christ do at any time to any person—saved or unsaved?
265. What will be our fate if we neglect the things of Christ throughout our life on the earth?
266. Read Matthew 24:45-47.
267. What must be preached with clarity and persistence?
268. What will our assignment of rulership in the day of Christ depend on?
269. Read Matthew 24:48-51.
270. In addition to receiving Christ as our personal Savior, how else must we receive Him?
271. What risk do we take if we do not do what the Lord says?
272. What is the issue of the Kingdom of God?
273. Will Christian people be judged according to their conduct in this world?
274. What does the grace of God teach us to do?
275. Read Titus 2:11,12.
276. If we Christians live a worldly, careless life, what will we be facing when the Lord Jesus returns?
277. What does Christ emphasize in the prophecies of the Gospels?
278. What is the relationship between the teaching of Christ concerning the Kingdom of God, and the teaching of the Apostles concerning salvation through grace?
279. What does Divine grace teach us to do?
280. What is the Kingdom of God?
281. Is the grace of God a means of bypassing God’s requirement for righteous conduct?
282. Why do we suffer tribulation?
283. Which part of the fruit of the Spirit is especially important if we are to make a success of entering the Kingdom of God?
A Vision
1. Why does the Lord’s Presence lift for a season?
2. What happened after the first century?
3. Why will the authority to testify be lifted from the saints?
4. What will result from the lifting of the anointing of the Spirit?
5. According to the Scriptures, how will Antichrist overcome many believers?
6. Who will be able to see through the mask of Satan?
7. When does Hell tremble?
8. What removes the restraint on Antichrist, according to our vision?
9. According to the Scripture, where is it likely that Antichrist will come from?
10. What are we to do when we see all these things begin to come to pass?
11. On what basis are we not to fear?
A Reflection
1. Who will be included in the first resurrection?
2. When will the first resurrection take place?
3. When will the second resurrection take place?
4. What is the first resurrection?
5. What is the second resurrection?
6. What Old Testament type serves as a basis for our belief that the first resurrection will be a special out-resurrection reserved for the victorious saints?
7. What other type suggests a special first resurrection of strong saints?
8. What is signified by the separation of the Ark of the Covenant from the Tabernacle of the Congregation?
9. What two New Testament passages speak of the first resurrection?
10. Read Revelation 20:4-6.
11. What does Revelation 14:1-5 reveal?
12. What is true of the resurrection and ascension that will occur when the Lord comes?
13. What does the parable of the ten virgins teach us?
14. When do those who attain the first resurrection gain eternal life?
15. What is the purpose of the first resurrection?
16. What is true of the nonvictorious saints?
17. What must be true if one is to be qualified for the first resurrection?
18. When has man attained the fullness of redemption?
19. What must take place before the physical body is filled with eternal life?
20. What is the task of our Christian discipleship?
21. What is the basis of the first resurrection?
22. When does true conversion take place?
23. What is each Christian to be made?
24. What does “a wheel in the middle of a wheel” indicate?
25. Of what is the Body of Christ composed?
26. What will raise us up in the last day?
27. Read II Corinthians 4:17.
28. What two bodies are involved in the first resurrection?
29. How is our heavenly body created?
30. What is the spiritual fulfillment of the blowing of Trumpets?
31. What does the Day of Atonement typify?
32. What is the spiritual fulfillment of the feast of Tabernacles?
33. At what point will we be reconciled totally to God?
34. When can God find rest in us?
35. Is it possible for one of the elect to lose his position in the Lord and be assigned to eternal punishment?
36. What philosophy has influenced the present-day teaching of the Day of the Lord?
37. What two words describe the Day of the Lord?
38. What has driven out the scriptural doctrine of sanctification?
39. What has left the believers mentally and emotionally unprepared for today’s Divine move of restoration of the Jewish people?
40. What will be true of the elect Jews and Gentiles in the day of Christ’s Kingdom?
41. Whom is the Lord preparing today?
42. What eventually will be true of all “Herod’s temples”?
43. What will be true of the Temple of God?
ANSWERS
Foreword—The Day of the Lord
1. Does the history of the Christian Church teach us that God’s people are never called on to endure tribulation?
No.
2. Does the Apostle Paul teach us that the Day of Christ will come before or after the great apostasy and the revealing of the man of sin?
After the great apostasy and the revealing of the man of sin (II Thessalonians 2:3).
3. What will happen to Antichrist when Christ returns to earth?
Antichrist will be destroyed.
4. What is the ancient hope of the saints?
That Christ will return and set up His Kingdom on the earth.
Introductory Scripture Page
1. Read II Thessalonians 1:7-10; Matthew 24:3.
and to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels,
in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,
when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed. (II Thessalonians 1:7-10)
Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of your coming, and of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3)
THE COMING OF THE LORD
Events Associated with the Coming of the Lord
1. Of the four Gospel accounts, which three contain Jesus’ prophecy concerning the events that will take place before He returns to earth?
Matthew, Mark, Luke.
2. Of what two things is Herod’s Temple symbolic?
The history of the world; the life of each individual.
3. Who was glorified by Herod’s Temple?
Herod.
4. What does our human nature desire to accomplish?
To construct an edifice that is impressive and enduring.
5. What two competing kings desire to be enthroned in our heart?
Self; Christ.
6. What examines and tests our works?
The eyes of Christ.
7. What portion of our life’s work will endure?
That which has been prepared in God.
8. Of what is each Christian being created an inseparable part?
The holy city, the new Jerusalem.
9. What was the first question the three disciples asked?
“When shall these things be?”
10. What were the second and third questions?
“What shall be the sign of your coming?” “What shall be the sign of the end of the age?”
11. What is the subject of the twenty-fourth chapter of Matthew?”
The coming of Christ; the Day of the Lord.
12. What is the “blessed hope” of the Church of Christ?
The coming of Christ in the clouds of glory to receive us to Himself.
13. Read Matthew 24:4,5.
And Jesus answered and said to them: “Take heed that no one deceives you.
“For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. (Matthew 24:4,5)
14. What will the adversary seek to do before the Lord returns?
To deceive the elect concerning the return of Christ to the earth.
15. What will characterize the last days of the present age?
Strong delusion and deception.
16. Read Matthew 24:6.
“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. (Matthew 24:6)
17. Are wars and rumors of wars the sign that the end is here?
No.
18. Read Matthew 24:7,8.
“For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.
“All these are the beginning of sorrows. (Matthew 24:7,8)
19. How else may sorrows be translated?
Birth pains.
20. Read Romans 8:20,21.
For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope;
because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (Romans 8:20,21)
21. What is about to come to harvest?
All that God has sown in the earth.
22. What is the Kingdom of God?
The rule of God in Christ over the creation.
23. Why are wars and other troubles necessary?
Because we all build for the glory of self rather than the glory of Christ.
24. What is the only freedom available to mankind?
The absolute lordship of Christ over us.
25. What is it that knocks down every “stone” of our life?
God’s goodness to us.
26. Where is the only place we can find rest?
In God’s rest (Hebrews 4:11).
27. Read Matthew 24:9.
“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake. (Matthew 24:9)
28. Why does the world hate the elect?
Because Christ has chosen us out of the world.
29. Read Matthew 24:10.
“And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. (Matthew 24:10)
30. What happens to the churches when persecution arises?
The members who were never touched by Christ will leave.
31. What can be said of the believers who stand true during persecution?
They are the Church of Christ.
32. Read Matthew 24:11.
“Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. (Matthew 24:11)
33. Do you believe that Christ’s message to His people in the present hour is that they will never be called on to stand firm in difficult times?
Answers may vary.
34. Read Matthew 24:12.
“And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many [most] will grow cold. (Matthew 24:12)
35. What does suffering accomplish in the saint?
It causes him to cease from sin (I Peter 4:1).
36. What is the most formidable foe facing the Christian people in the closing days of the present age?
Self-centered, self-seeking, pleasure-loving lawlessness.
37. What can lead the saint astray?
The promise of easy, comfortable living.
38. Do you believe we can enjoy all the pleasures of the world and then reign with Christ at His appearing? Give Scripture for your belief.
Answers may vary.
39. Read Matthew 24:13.
“But he who endures to the end shall be saved. (Matthew 24:13)
40. After we become a Christian, what kind of life is there to be lived?
A life of growth in righteousness.
41. What do we win by our perseverance in faithfulness?
Our own souls.
42. Read Matthew 24:14.
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. (Matthew 24:14)
43. What are wars, rumors of wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes?
The birth pains of a creation in travail.
44. What will happen after the Gospel of the Kingdom has been preached in all the world for a witness to all nations?
The darkness of Antichrist will settle on the earth and the testimony of Christ will be driven from the cities of the world.
45. What is the Gospel?
A witness to all nations.
46. Who will prepare the way for the Lord’s return to earth?
The remnant of saints who have been called in the last days and purified from the world, from Satan, and from their own lusts and self-will.
47. Read Joel 2:23; Hosea 6:3; Zechariah 10:1.
Be glad then, you children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God; for He has given you the former rain faithfully, and He will cause the rain to come down for you—the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month. (Joel 2:23)
Let us know, let us pursue the knowledge of the LORD. His going forth is established as the morning [of the Day of the Lord]; He will come to us like the rain, like the latter [harvest] and former [seed] rain to the earth. (Hosea 6:3)
Ask the LORD for rain in the time of the latter rain. The LORD will make flashing clouds; He will give them showers of rain, grass in the field for everyone. (Zechariah 10:1)
48. Why must the “harvest rain” be poured on the earth?
To bring the planting of the Lord to maturity.
49. What must come after the “harvest rain”?
The sun of tribulation.
50. What will come to maturity side by side?
The wheat and the tares; righteousness and lawlessness; the image of Christ in God’s elect, and the image of Satan in wicked people.
51. What will the messengers of God do in the end time?
Remove from the Kingdom of God all that is offensive to God.
52. Read Matthew 24:15; I John 2:18: Matthew 13:30.
“Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), (Matthew 24:15)
Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour. (I John 2:18)
‘Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, “First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.”’” (Matthew 13:30)
53. Where is Antichrist likely to come from?
From among those who assemble with the saints.
54. Read I John 2:19.
They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us; but they went out that they might be made manifest, that none of them were of us. (I John 2:19)
55. What will Antichrist be?
The personification of lawlessness.
56. How do we know that the Day of Christ is not here as yet?
The great apostasy (rebellion against God) has not taken place; the man of lawlessness has not taken his place in the Temple of God.
57. Who is God’s Law, God’s Word, in human form?
Christ.
58. What are people being taught today in educational institutions?
A person should not be hindered from doing whatever he or she desires to do.
59. What should we be fleeing from today?
The spirit of lawlessness that is capturing the minds and hearts of people everywhere.
60. What will be one of the characteristics of the reign of Antichrist?
The love of money.
61. What spirits already are at work in the world?
The love of lawlessness and the love of money.
62. What is the meaning of “666”?
Man making himself God.
63. What does the “mark” in the “right hand” represent?
The conforming of our deeds to the ways of the world.
64. What does the “mark” in the “foreheads” represent?
The conforming of our thinking to the ways of the world.
65. Of what will Antichrist be the incarnation?
Of Satan; of lawlessness; of mutiny against the rule of God in Christ.
66. What will take place before the rise of Antichrist?
An out pouring of God’s Spirit of unprecedented glory and power.
67. Where is it possible that the man of sin will be seated?
Between the wings of the Cherubim of Glory of a restored Temple.
68. What may he declare himself to be?
The God of Israel.
69. What are boys and girls being taught today?
The highest value in life is the pursuit of one’s own will and ambitions.
70. What must we do if we are to escape the spirit of Antichrist that is present today?
We must go outside the camp with Christ, away from the ease and pleasure that lawlessness offers, and become the bondslave of Christ.
71. Is the Spirit of God ready at this time for someone to declare himself to be the God of Heaven?
No.
72. What acts as a restraint on the abomination of man proclaiming himself to be God?
The leaven of Christian testimony and influence.
73. Of what is King Herod a terrifying example?
A human being who would dare to take his seat in the Temple of God and claim to be God.
74. Why will the Lord Jesus allow the horrid abomination to exist for a season?
In order to fulfill the Divine purposes.
75. What is at work on every side today?
The spirit of lawlessness.
76. What type of government is being advocated in some areas of the world in our day?
Anarchy—ungoverned personal liberty.
77. What is being steadily removed from mankind?
The restraining of lawlessness.
78. What will take place in the earth because of the flowering of iniquity?
The love of the majority of mankind for God will grow cold.
79. What will be true of the Lord’s saints in that day?
They will be persecuted and denied access to civilization.
80. What will be true of the “Christian” churches that will be allowed to exist under the reign of Antichrist?
They will be devoid of the Spirit of God.
81. What restraining influence will be removed from the civilized areas of the earth?
The true Christians.
82. Who will assist the saints in that day?
Some of the nations of the earth.
83. What will be destroyed from the centers of civilization before the Lord appears?
The influence of the Christian Church.
No Christian believer in whom Christ is abiding ever has been or ever will be conquered by Satan. The saint himself, as to his safety in the Rock of Ages, can never be harmed.
However, it has been true throughout history, and will be true in the days of Antichrist according to our understanding, that the saints will be driven into hiding, being forced to leave every major city on earth. This is the removal of that which restrains the revealing of the fullness of lawlessness and the exalting of the man of sin.
Also, every Christian must guard himself against deception. If Satan can deceive a saint with the love of the world, or his bodily lusts, or his self-will, and seduce him away from carefully following the Lord Jesus, then Satan can deprive the saint of his crown of authority and the priestly anointing of the Holy Spirit of God. The saint’s testimony no longer will be able to restrain the flood of lawlessness.
84. Who are the remnant of the seed of the woman (Revelation 12:17)?
The saints who serve God throughout the reign of Antichrist.
85. Of what are Elijah and Elisha a type?
The double portion of the Holy Spirit that will abide on the saints of the last days.
86. What is it that will be overcome during the days of Antichrist?
The Christian testimony.
87. What is the condition of the Christian Church, the Body of Christ, today?
It is spotted and wrinkled.
88. What must the saints do in this hour?
We must wash our robes and make them white in the blood of the Lamb.
89. What will take place during the darkest hour of earth’s history?
The Light of the Spirit of God will arise on the Church. This will occur in connection with the return of Christ to the earth.
90. What will happen to the saints during the rule of Antichrist?
They will be purified in preparation for the glorious appearing of the Lord.
91. What will be given to Christian people who live a victorious life in Christ throughout the rule of Antichrist?
Outstanding rewards of glory, authority, nearness to God, and opportunity for service in the Kingdom of God.
92. To whom are the greatest of the rewards assigned?
Those who have lived victoriously in Christ throughout the last days—the most difficult period of world history.
93. What is the “abomination of desolation”?
The enthroning of a human being in the Temple of God.
94. What does the Lord teach us continually?
Men must never usurp the glory that belongs to God alone.
95. What is produced when man sits on the throne?
Desolation.
96. What will Antichrist sponsor?
Noble works that appear to be in the best interest of earth’s peoples.
97. What will happen to many Christian people because of Antichrist’s professed concern for the welfare of human beings?
They will fall into his snare.
98. What does human leadership apart from God always produce?
Mental, moral, spiritual, and financial desolation and confusion.
99. What will come to pass as soon as the man of sin declares that he is God?
Worldwide desolation—a period of trouble greater than any other in the history of the world.
100. What will Antichrist attempt to do, after the manner of King Herod?
He will attempt to destroy Christ out of the earth.
101. What should Christian people always be prepared to do?
To take our families and flee, as the Spirit of God directs, to an area of safety.
102. What will Christ do at His glorious appearing?
He will crush the son of lawlessness.
103. What are two of the principal themes of the Lord’s prophecy concerning His coming?
Deception; fleeing from the spirit of lawlessness.
104. How are the elect always to live in this world?
As pilgrims and strangers.
105. What are three occasions on which the elect are to flee?
The latter part of the first century when General Titus attacked Jerusalem; when the abomination of desolation stands in the holy place; and when the trumpet of the Lord sounds and the elect are gathered together to meet the Lord at His coming.
106. When was the first “fleeing”?
During the siege by Titus.
107. What is yet to come?
A greater desolation.
108. What is the second occasion for fleeing?
When the abomination that makes desolate stands in the holy place.
109. When will the great tribulation occur?
After the Gospel of the Kingdom has been preached for a witness to all nations.
110. In what two phases will the Day of Vengeance of our God be exercised?
In the great tribulation, which is a demonstration of God’s displeasure with man making himself God in the earth; and in the outpouring of the wrath of God on all sin and sinners.
111. What would happen if the great tribulation were not shortened in time?
Every person on earth would perish.
112. Why will those days be shortened?
For the elect’s sake, that they not be destroyed with the ungodly.
113. What will happen to the members of the Bride of the Lamb during the tribulation period?
They will be purified, and separated from the worldly churches. They will learn to depend wholly on the Lord Jesus for every aspect of life.
114. Against whom is the Divine wrath directed?
Satan, and all who refuse to be separated from Satan.
115. What will be true of the salvation of the righteous, in that day?
The righteous will be saved with difficulty.
116. Are we to attempt to bring all of our belongings with us?
No.
117. Will God hear and answer our prayers when we pray to Him in the day of trouble?
Yes (Psalms 91:15).
118. Why must every Christian person, young and old, hold lightly to the things of the world?
So he or she can move whenever and wherever the Holy Spirit directs.
119. Does the Lord ever direct people to move in order to protect them from danger?
Yes.
120. What must be the daily expectancy of each disciple?
That the Lord Jesus will return and gather us to Himself.
121. What is the third occasion for fleeing?
The coming of the Lord from Heaven.
122. Who are we to remember when the Lord calls us out of this world?
Lot’s wife.
123. What can we learn from the episodes of Noah and Lot?
We are not to look back when the Lord commands us to flee. As soon as the elect leave, the judgment of God will come on the world. Some are not a part of the world system and spirit, as was true of Noah and Abraham, and they will not be touched by the Divine judgment. Some are living too close to this world, as was Lot, and they will barely escape from destruction. They may be delivered because of the prayers of the godly, but they will lose their inheritance, saving only their lives. If we would be saved in the day of destruction we must take certain steps of faith.
124. What will govern our ability to take the final, decisive step of faith at the moment of the Lord’s appearing?
Our prior preparation.
125. Of what is Noah a type?
Believers who are living victoriously in the Lord Jesus.
126. Will the Noah-Christians be prepared in advance for the Lord’s return?
Yes.
127. How did Noah save himself and his household?
By preparing an ark in obedience to God.
128. How does the Christian save himself and his household?
By preparing himself and his family in obedience to the word of Christ.
129. Was Noah warned just before the flood?
Yes.
130. Will the saints be warned in advance of catastrophe?
Yes.
131. Were Noah and Abraham saved to exceedingly great fruitfulness?
Yes.
132. What did Lot do that brought him close to destruction?
He lived in and was partaker of a wicked culture.
133. What must the saint do who is directed by the Lord to live in the midst of wickedness?
He must keep himself from being spotted by the world.
134. Did Lot know of the coming judgment?
Not until the moment came to flee.
135. How did Lot’s family respond to his warning to flee with him?
They mocked and delayed.
136. How did Noah’s family respond to his warning to come into the Ark with him?
They obeyed the patriarch.
137. Why did the two families behave differently?
Because of the kind of life lived by their husband and father.
138. What saved Lot?
The love of God for Abraham.
139. Was the Lord able to find ten righteous men in Sodom?
No.
140. Of whom is Lot a type?
The person who is saved by fire because of the intercession of a close relative who is faithful to God in prayer and obedience.
141. What destroyed Lot’s wife?
Her unwillingness to leave the things of the world.
142. In what two different kinds of situations can a Christian choose to live?
In a realm of sinfulness and worldliness; on the mountain of prayer and communion with God.
143. Why is it dangerous for a person to count on being saved “as by fire”?
He may test the love and patience of God to the point that he is destroyed in the fire of God’s wrath against sin, as was Lot’s wife.
144. Would Jesus warn us to “remember Lot’s wife” if there were no danger of our hesitating in unbelief at the moment of His calling of His saints to meet Him in the air?
No.
145. Of what is Lot an example?
The follower of Christ who abides in worldly living, compromise, weakness, fear, and indecision.
146. Will the victorious Christian be overtaken as a thief by the Day of the Lord?
No (I Thessalonians 5:4).
147. Will the righteous be able to save the unrighteous at the moment of the Lord’s return?
No.
148. Will the lukewarm Christian be overtaken as a thief by the Day of the Lord?
Yes.
149. When do we prepare for our Lord’s return?
Today.
150. Did Noah have to take some steps of faith at the moment of judgment?
Yes—he had to enter the Ark when there was not a cloud in the sky, it appears.
151. Did Lot have to take some steps at the moment of judgment?
Yes—he had to walk out of Sodom when there was no apparent reason for fleeing.
152. Why were the citizens of Sodom caught by surprise?
They were eating. They were drinking. They were building. They were selling. They were planting. They were buying. It was “business as usual,” and then sudden destruction.
153. What were the things that prevented—and will yet prevent—an awareness of coming judgment, an understanding of the mind of the Lord?
Eating, drinking, building, selling, planting, buying.
154. To what did the people of Sodom turn their attention?
The satisfying of their lusts.
155. What happens when a nation abandons itself to lust?
It is weighed in the balances and found wanting, and then the handwriting appears on the wall.
156. What may take place during the remainder of the twentieth century?
Many nations may be destroyed.
157. How do we slay our spiritual life?
By not cultivating prayer and the reading of God’s Word.
158. What will control our steps when the Lord Jesus descends from Heaven with the holy angels?
Our previous behavior in the world.
159. How is our faith and consecration of today related to our faith during the Day of the Lord?
If we do not have enough faith and consecration to come out of the world and serve Christ today, then we will not have enough faith to go out to meet the Lord when He appears in the air.
160. When does correct doctrine save us?
When we act on it.
161. Read Luke 17:29-37.
“but on the day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone [burning sulfur] from heaven and destroyed them all.
“Even so will it be in the day when the Son of Man is revealed.
“In that day, he who is on the housetop, and his goods are in the house, let him not come down to take them away. And likewise the one who is in the field, let him not turn back.
“Remember Lot’s wife.
“Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it.
“I tell you, in that night there will be two men in one bed: the one will be taken and the other will be left.
“Two women will be grinding together: the one will be taken and the other left.
“Two men will be in the field: the one will be taken and the other left.”
And they answered and said to Him, “Where, Lord?” So He said to them, “Wherever the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together.” (Luke 17:29-37)
162. According to Luke 17:29-37, what will happen when the righteous are called out of the cities of the earth?
Destruction will fall on the sinners.
Notice that Lot was not carried up to Heaven. Notice also that there was not a period of time after the righteous were removed (as taught in the pre-tribulation doctrine) in which the world continued in a state of wickedness.
163. How do Christians live?
By eating the flesh of Christ and drinking His blood.
164. What will be true, when the Lord comes, of the believers who are not living by Christ’s life?
They will not be raised and drawn up to Him because the resurrection life is not abiding in them.
165. What kind of spiritual environment will be on the earth when the Lord is revealed?
Great spiritual darkness.
166. Will it be evident, at the time of the return of the Lord, that something unusual is to take place?
Not at first.
167. What has Jesus warned us to be careful to do?
To keep alert, to carefully watch and pray.
168. When do we determine our eternal destiny?
Now.
169. If we are not gathering to Jesus, what are we doing?
Scattering from Jesus.
170. What will be true of us if we become occupied with the things of the world?
We and our loved ones will not be able to respond to the trumpet of God.
171. To what should we be giving our whole attention?
Our own ability, and the ability of those around us, to stand in the Day of the Lord.
172. Read Matthew 24:20,21.
“And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath.
“For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. (Matthew 24:20,21)
173. Where is the place of protection from every plague and pestilence?
The center of the will of Christ.
174. When will Psalms 34, 37, and 91 have their most complete fulfillment?
During the shortened period of unprecedented desolation just ahead of us.
175. What does John 17:15 teach us?
That Jesus does not pray that we should be removed from the world but that we should be kept from Satan.
176. What does Matthew 24:20 reveal to us?
Nothing is inevitable.
177. What was foreshadowed by the destruction of the Jews in the first century?
The “great tribulation.”
178. Whom is Jesus addressing, in the twenty-fourth chapter of Matthew?
The “elect.”
179. Who are God’s elect, according to the New Testament writings?
Believers of both Jewish and Gentile parentage who have been called out of the world in order that they may glorify God.
180. Read Matthew 24:22.
“And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened. (Matthew 24:22)
181. During the great tribulation, what will take place because of the prayers of God’s elect?
The human race will be spared total destruction.
182. Read Matthew 24:23-25.
“Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it.
“For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.
“See, I have told you beforehand. (Matthew 24:23-25)
183. Why do people follow false Christs and false prophets?
They hope to find a quick, easy way out of their problems.
184. What belief prepares the believers for deception and heartbreaking spiritual collapse?
The teaching that they will not suffer in this world.
185. What does tribulation accomplish in us?
Patience.
186. What is true of the wrath of God?
It is nonredemptive: it does not create righteousness in the person on whom it falls.
187. How do we know that there will be no secret appearing of the Lord?
Because the Lord Jesus stated that there is to be no secret coming.
188. What will be true of us if we abide in the “secret place of the most High”?
We will be protected throughout all the calamities that are to come on the earth.
189. Who preaches ease and pleasure to the Christian saints?
The False Prophet and Antichrist.
190. To what does Antichrist appeal?
Our self-centered love of pleasure, ease, and material gain.
191. What will Christ’s coming be like?
Lightning that shines from horizon to horizon.
192. Read Matthew 24:26.
“Therefore if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!’ do not go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!’ do not believe it. (Matthew 24:26)
193. In addition to the earth wide flashes of lightning, what sounds will ensure that everyone on earth becomes aware that Christ has arrived?
The thundering voice of summons directed toward the Church; the powerful voice of the chief angel; the trumpet of God.
194. Will the flashing of lightning and the shout and trumpet blast be secretive?
No.
195. In what way will Christ’s coming be as a thief in the night?
Christ’s appearing will catch the lukewarm Christians and the world unprepared.
196. Who will accompany Christ at His appearing?
The victorious saints.
197. Read Matthew 24:27.
“For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. (Matthew 24:27)
198. What power will pluck the saints from the face of the earth?
The Holy Spirit.
199. Why will the remorse of the people left on the earth be unbearable?
Because they will see the gates of salvation close in their face. They will witness the light and the glory, the peace and joy, issuing from the city; but they will be shut out for eternity.
200. What will the leaders of the earth be required to confront in the Day of the Lord?
The people whom they have deceived.
201. What will be true of those who have assisted the Lord’s witnesses?
They will not lose their reward.
202. Read Revelation 6:15-17.
And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains,
and said to the mountains and rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb!
“For the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” (Revelation 6:15-17)
203. Read Matthew 24:28.
“For wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together. (Matthew 24:28)
204. What will happen to every person on earth who has learned to live by the broken body and shed blood of Christ?
He will be drawn up by that same body and blood to meet the slain Lamb, by whose Life he has learned to live.
205. Read Matthew 24:29.
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. (Matthew 24:29)
206. When can we look for the coming of the Lord?
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days.”
207. Who will be saved?
Those who stay true to Christ throughout every difficulty.
208. What was true of the Israelites in Goshen?
They were protected from the judgments of God even though they were living next to those who were being afflicted and destroyed.
209. Can God protect a believer in the midst of trouble?
Yes.
210. What are the four great signs of the nearness of the Lord’s coming?
The sun darkened; the moon turned to blood and blacked out; the stars falling from heaven; the powers of the heavens shaken.
211. What is Christ ready to do today?
To open the door to every nation so the Gospel of the Kingdom may be preached as a witness.
212. What has been set before the believers?
An open door in the Spirit.
213. What is the Holy Spirit ready to do?
To enable us to preach the Gospel of the Kingdom with powerful signs and wonders.
214. What will happen to those who are claiming to be saints but who actually are lovers of self?
They will come and worship God at the feet of the true saints.
215. What will God show in His time?
Who truly is following Christ, and who has King Self enthroned in his or her life.
216. Who will Christ guard from the hour of “temptation” that is to come on all the world?
Those who have guarded the word of His patience.
217. Read Revelation 3:10; 1:9.
“Because you have kept [guarded] My command to persevere, I also will keep [guard] you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. (Revelation 3:10)
I, John, both your brother and companion in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the island that is called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. (Revelation 1:9)
218. What was the Apostle John given because of his willingness to go with Christ outside the camp of civilization?
The most extraordinary vision of the future ever presented to a human being.
219. How can we gain “eternal security”?
By remaining faithful to Christ as long as we live on the earth.
220. What will take place before the appearing of the Lord?
The preliminary signs in the heavens; the worldwide rebellion against authority; the enthroning of the man of sin who claims to be God.
221. What church is appearing even now on the horizon?
Laodicea.
222. What is the promise to the victorious saint of the Laodicean period?
He will inherit the throne of Christ.
223. Read Revelation 3:21; 20:4.
“To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. (Revelation 3:21)
And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. (Revelation 20:4)
224. Read Hosea 6:3; Zechariah 10:1.
Let us know, let us pursue the knowledge of the LORD. His going forth is established as the morning [of the Day of the Lord]; He will come to us like the rain, like the latter [harvest] and former [seed] rain to the earth. (Hosea 6:3)
Ask the LORD for rain in the time of the latter rain. The LORD will make flashing clouds; He will give them showers of rain, grass in the field for everyone. (Zechariah 10:1)
225. What must every saint do today?
Serve the Master with his or her whole heart.
226. Read Matthew 24:30.
“Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. (Matthew 24:30)
227. For what should we be preparing ourselves, and those around us, in the present hour?
The great and terrible Day of the Lord.
228. Read Matthew 24:31; Revelation 11:15; I Thessalonians 4:16; I Corinthians 15:52.
“And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. (Matthew 24:31)
Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!” (Revelation 11:15)
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. (I Thessalonians 4:16)
in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. (I Corinthians 15:52)
229. According to Romans 11:7, does the nation of Israel as such constitute the “elect”?
No.
230. Read Romans 8:33; Colossians 3:12; Titus 1:1.
Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies [declares righteous]. (Romans 8:33)
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; (Colossians 3:12)
Paul, a bondservant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect and the acknowledgment of the truth which accords with godliness, (Titus 1:1)
231. On the basis of the preceding three verses, whom does the New Testament consider to be God’s “elect”?
The people, both Jewish and Gentile, whom God has called out of the world to serve Him through Christ.
232. Who will be gathered together “after the tribulation of those days”?
The elect; the saints; the Lord’s chosen people; the true Church of Christ.
233. Read Matthew 24:32-34.
“Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.
“So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors!
“Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. (Matthew 24:32-34)
234. Who compose “this generation”?
Perhaps the people who witness the four major signs of the end of the age. Scholars are not in agreement on this point.
235. Read Matthew 24:35; Revelation 20:11.
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. (Matthew 24:35)
Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. (Revelation 20:11)
236. What will be preserved intact when the present universe is but a dim memory?
The Scriptures.
237. Read Matthew 24:36.
“But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only. (Matthew 24:36)
238. What was finished in detail before the creation of the world?
The Divine plan of redemption.
239. Read Matthew 24:37-39; 13:30.
“But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.
“For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark,
“and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. (Matthew 24:37-39)
‘Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, “First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.”’” (Matthew 13:30)
240. How do we know the righteous will not be “raptured” before the Day of Judgment?
Jesus taught us that the wheat and the tares will grow together until the end of the age. Then the Lord will bind the tares in bundles to be burned.
241. Who will administer the judgment of God in the last days?
The Lord Jesus and His saints.
242. Read Psalms 149:6-9; II Thessalonians 1:7-9.
Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand,
To execute vengeance on the nations, and punishments on the peoples;
To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron;
To execute on them the written judgment—This honor have all His saints. Praise the LORD! (Psalms 149:6-9)
and to give you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels,
in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, (II Thessalonians 1:7-9)
243. What passage of Scripture informs us that the wheat and the tares will continue to work side by side until the moment of the Lord’s appearing?
Matthew 24:40,41.
244. What will take place on the earth at the coming of the Lord?
Weeping and gnashing of teeth.
245. What will each person do when the trumpet of the Lord sounds?
He or she will examine his own spiritual condition.
246. Why did the five virgins not walk in the Spirit of God?
Because they were foolish.
247. How do the foolish regard the wise?
As a source of deliverance from the snares they fall into continually.
248. Will the wise be able to assist the foolish in the Day of the Lord?
No, the righteous themselves will “scarcely be saved [is saved with difficulty].”
249. Who went in with the Lord to the marriage?
Those who were ready.
250. When do we make ourselves ready for the Lord’s coming?
Now—today.
251. What can be said of us if we do not prepare ourselves today for the Lord’s coming?
We are foolish.
252. What are the five most dreadful words ever uttered in any language?
“And the door was shut.”
253. Who will be inside the walls of the Kingdom of God?
The people who love Christ and His righteous ways.
254. Who will be outside the walls of the Kingdom of God?
The wicked.
255. Did Jesus ever raise the question of doctrinal belief when discussing the fate of people in the Day of the Lord?
Not to our knowledge.
256. What question shall be raised in the Day of the Lord?
The faithfulness of people in serving Christ and keeping themselves unspotted from the world.
257. How shall we be saved?
By enduring to the end.
258. What choice are we making right now?
We either are saving ourselves and those who hear us, or we are destroying ourselves and those who hear us.
259. How much time will we have to prepare ourselves when the Lord comes?
None.
260. Read Matthew 24:42.
“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. (Matthew 24:42)
261. What are we to keep under control at all times?
Our physical body.
262. Read Matthew 24:43,44.
“But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into.
“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. (Matthew 24:43,44)
263. What may happen to us, if we are not diligent, after we have experienced a first burning love for Christ?
Our love may become cool.
264. What may Christ do at any time to any person—saved or unsaved?
He may stand before him and require an accounting of his life, his soul.
265. What will be our fate if we neglect the things of Christ throughout our life on the earth?
We will be judged, and will lose everything of value.
266. Read Matthew 24:45-47.
“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season?
“Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing.
“Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods. (Matthew 24:45-47)
267. What must be preached with clarity and persistence?
The rewards of rulership with Christ are for the victorious saints, not for the lukewarm believers.
268. What will our assignment of rulership in the day of Christ depend on?
The faithfulness we display in the present hour in the small responsibilities we have been given.
269. Read Matthew 24:48-51.
“But if that evil servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’
“and begins to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards,
“the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him and at an hour that he is not aware of,
“and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 24:48-51)
270. In addition to receiving Christ as our personal Savior, how else must we receive Him?
As our personal Lord.
271. What risk do we take if we do not do what the Lord says?
Being cast into outer darkness.
272. What is the issue of the Kingdom of God?
The condition of our heart, and our conduct in the world.
273. Will Christian people be judged according to their conduct in this world?
Yes (II Corinthians 5:10).
274. What does the grace of God teach us to do?
To repent.
275. Read Titus 2:11,12.
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men,
teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, (Titus 2:11,12)
276. If we Christians live a worldly, careless life, what will we be facing when the Lord Jesus returns?
An angry Lord.
277. What does Christ emphasize in the prophecies of the Gospels?
Our conduct in the world.
278. What is the relationship between the teaching of Christ concerning the Kingdom of God, and the teaching of the Apostles concerning salvation through grace?
Grace is the means by which we are able to attain the righteous living required in the Kingdom of God.
279. What does Divine grace teach us to do?
To obey the laws of the Kingdom of God (Titus 2:12).
280. What is the Kingdom of God?
Righteousness, peace, and joy—all in and through the Holy Spirit of God.
281. Is the grace of God a means of bypassing God’s requirement for righteous conduct?
Only temporarily, while we are learning to walk in the power and righteousness of the Spirit of God.
282. Why do we suffer tribulation?
That we may be counted worthy of the Kingdom of God (II Thessalonians 1:5).
283. Which part of the fruit of the Spirit is especially important if we are to make a success of entering the Kingdom of God?
Patience.
A Vision
1. Why does the Lord’s Presence lift for a season?
So other Divine purposes may be accomplished.
2. What happened after the first century?
The fullness of power and revelation that rested on the Apostles was lifted.
3. Why will the authority to testify be lifted from the saints?
In order that sin may come to maturity and be judged.
4. What will result from the lifting of the anointing of the Spirit?
A tidal wave of lawlessness—an earth-wide revolt against God and His Christ.
5. According to the Scriptures, how will Antichrist overcome many believers?
With his smooth words.
6. Who will be able to see through the mask of Satan?
Only a praying saint who walks with God.
7. When does Hell tremble?
When a saint goes to his knees in prayer, lays his life at the foot of the cross of Christ, and then arises under the load of his personal cross and begins to walk in righteousness, holiness, and stern obedience to the Father.
8. What removes the restraint on Antichrist, according to our vision?
The falling away of the believers from the faith.
9. According to the Scripture, where is it likely that Antichrist will come from?
The Christian churches.
10. What are we to do when we see all these things begin to come to pass?
We are to lift up our head.
11. On what basis are we not to fear?
The promises of God’s Word always hold true for those who are abiding in Christ, no matter how severe the problems of the world may become.
A Reflection
1. Who will be included in the first resurrection?
Only the conquerors, the victorious saints.
2. When will the first resurrection take place?
At the beginning of the thousand-year Kingdom Age.
3. When will the second resurrection take place?
At the termination of the thousand-year Kingdom Age.
4. What is the first resurrection?
An advance resurrection out from among the dead. It is reserved for the royal priesthood—the victorious saints.
5. What is the second resurrection?
The general resurrection of the dead.
6. What Old Testament type serves as a basis for our belief that the first resurrection will be a special out-resurrection reserved for the victorious saints?
The return of David from the wilderness with his mighty men to rule over Judah.
7. What other type suggests a special first resurrection of strong saints?
The removal of the Ark of the Covenant from the Tabernacle of the Congregation.
8. What is signified by the separation of the Ark of the Covenant from the Tabernacle of the Congregation?
The removal of the Glory of God from the main body of His Church until the enemy has been overcome.
9. What two New Testament passages speak of the first resurrection?
Philippians 3:11 and Revelation 20:4-6.
10. Read Revelation 20:4-6.
And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.
But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This [living again] is the first resurrection.
Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power [authority], but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years. (Revelation 20:4-6)
11. What does Revelation 14:1-5 reveal?
The destiny of the victorious saints.
12. What is true of the resurrection and ascension that will occur when the Lord comes?
It must be attained.
13. What does the parable of the ten virgins teach us?
Many believers will not be prepared to go with the Bridegroom when He appears.
14. When do those who attain the first resurrection gain eternal life?
Prior to the coming of the Lord.
15. What is the purpose of the first resurrection?
To raise us to rulership.
16. What is true of the nonvictorious saints?
They are not given to eat of the tree of life at this time, nor do they receive a crown of life, nor do they rule over the nations. Also, they do not walk with Christ in the white robe of righteousness.
17. What must be true if one is to be qualified for the first resurrection?
He must have attained the resurrection of his spiritual nature prior to the coming of the Lord.
18. When has man attained the fullness of redemption?
When he has attained the resurrection of his spirit, the resurrection of his soul, and the resurrection of his body.
19. What must take place before the physical body is filled with eternal life?
The spirit and soul must be resurrected to eternal life.
20. What is the task of our Christian discipleship?
To gain eternal life in our soul.
21. What is the basis of the first resurrection?
Our soul must die and be raised again in Christ.
22. When does true conversion take place?
When the soul is crucified and the Life of Jesus comes forth.
23. What is each Christian to be made?
A chariot of God.
24. What does “a wheel in the middle of a wheel” indicate?
Our soul must die to its self-centeredness and Christ must occupy the center of our personality.
25. Of what is the Body of Christ composed?
That which is both son of man and son of God.
26. What will raise us up in the last day?
The flesh and blood of Christ.
27. Read II Corinthians 4:17.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, (II Corinthians 4:17)
28. What two bodies are involved in the first resurrection?
Our heavenly body and our physical body.
29. How is our heavenly body created?
It is the spiritual counterpart of the sowing of our mortal body and soul to death in the will of Jesus.
30. What is the spiritual fulfillment of the blowing of Trumpets?
The coming of the King to make war against all of His enemies. Also, the forming of the believers into the army of the Lord.
31. What does the Day of Atonement typify?
The cleansing of our personalities, and the bringing of them into total union with God.
32. What is the spiritual fulfillment of the feast of Tabernacles?
The Father and the Son enter us through the Holy Spirit and make their eternal abode with us.
33. At what point will we be reconciled totally to God?
When every element of our personality is at rest in Christ, finding its righteousness, peace, and joy in Him.
34. When can God find rest in us?
When all that we are has died and been renewed in Christ.
35. Is it possible for one of the elect to lose his position in the Lord and be assigned to eternal punishment?
Yes.
36. What philosophy has influenced the present-day teaching of the Day of the Lord?
Humanism.
37. What two words describe the Day of the Lord?
Great, and terrible.
38. What has driven out the scriptural doctrine of sanctification?
An overemphasis on justification.
39. What has left the believers mentally and emotionally unprepared for today’s Divine move of restoration of the Jewish people?
The anti-Semitic doctrine that believing Gentiles will be carried up to Paradise while the Jews without the Holy Spirit are left here to cope with persecution, torture, and death.
40. What will be true of the elect Jews and Gentiles in the day of Christ’s Kingdom?
They will be one in the hand of God.
41. Whom is the Lord preparing today?
His mighty men.
42. What eventually will be true of all “Herod’s temples”?
They will lie in ruins.
43. What will be true of the Temple of God?
The eternal Temple of God will arise and stand in Divine majesty to the ages of ages, world without end.
(“A Study Guide For the Coming of the Lord”, 3818-1)