When Judgment
Draws Near

Matthew 24:15–35

Ed Rangel • Waupaca, WI
A Visible Event
"Therefore when you see the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place..."
Matthew 24:15

Imminent Judgment Signalled

  • Jesus anchors the warning in Daniel.
  • A call to biblical remembrance, not guesswork.
  • Covenant judgment tied to Jerusalem.
Luke States It Plainly
"But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then recognize that her desolation is near."
Luke 21:20

Escapable Judgment

  • Instructions were local: Judea, housetops, Sabbath.
  • Fleeing is only possible in historical judgment.
  • A warning you can obey is mercy.

Historical Tribulation

  • "Great tribulation" describes severe local pressure.
  • A contained catastrophe, not cosmic dissolution.
  • Days were cut short, proving divine limitation.
The Collapse of an Order
"THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky..."
Matthew 24:29

Reading Prophets Biblically

  • Isaiah and Joel use cosmic collapse for historical judgment.
  • The lights went out on the rebellious Jewish system.
  • Judicial vindication of the reigning Son of Man.

"This Generation" Locks It

  • A concrete time marker given to His disciples.
  • The judgment occurred within their lifetime.
  • His words outlasted the temple and the city.

The Turning Point

  • Verse 35 closes the section on visible, local judgment.
  • Verse 36 shifts: "But of that day and hour no one knows..."
  • Separate visible warnings from the unknown final day.

Hear the Warning

  • Believe what Christ actually said.
  • Do not stretch clear statements to protect traditions.
  • Submit to Scripture over speculation.
If He was right about Jerusalem,
He is right about your soul.

Respond to the King

  • Hear the Gospel
  • Believe Jesus is the Christ
  • Repent of Your Sins
  • Confess His Name
  • Be Baptized for the Remission of Sins
1 / 13