Lesson 9 Parables for the End Times

Jesus wraps up his Olivet Discourse with several parables that point to the importance of being prepared for the events surrounding His return. He seems to especially address the leaders of the church to prepare their flocks for these extraordinary times. As you consider these familiar parables with the view of the end times, they may take on new significance.

Reflect
• Consider the parable of the Ten Virgins. If oil represents the Holy Spirit, would you say that you have oil in your lamp? If not, how can you get this oil? See Luke 11:9-13.

• Consider the parable of the Talents, especially in the light of persecution of the church. Are you burying the Gospel? Are you freely sharing it with others wherever life takes you?

• In the parables of the Olivet Discourse one of the main themes is to get ready for the events preceding the Lord’s return and to encourage those over whom we have influence in the body of Christ to be ready. How can you do this?

Respond
Pray right now that the Lord will give you opportunities to share His good news with someone this week. Don’t bury it! As you go through your week be ready to share as the Lord answers your prayer.

Ask the Lord how you can spiritually prepare for the events that will precede His return. Right down what you “hear”. How will you begin to prepare this week?

Read through the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 and 25 one final time this week.

See the chart pdf of the events surrounding the return of the Lord Jesus for consideration in our next lesson.