Don't be Deceived

Jesus said the gates of hell will not destroy His Church (Matthew 16:18). He was not talking about a building. People are the Church. Let’s look at Luke 21:5-19 and discuss fear and enduring to the end.

Not One Stone

Luke 21:5-6 Then, as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and donations, He said, 6 “These things which you see—the days will come in which not one stone shall be left upon another that shall not be thrown down.”

Jesus predicted the Temple would be destroyed. It lasted over 500 years. God closes spiritually worthless buildings. Jesus’ prediction came right after he had praised a widow for her very generous contribution to the temple fund, the proverbial widow’s mite. Church buildings are not the "forever" part of church life.

The majesty of a large church service and the healing intimacy of a small church are unsurpassed. Large churches are not the norm and not always successful. A few ancient churches were large. Usually, they were small and scattered. Jesus is more impressed with the grandeur of a faithful heart.

God may destroy what we have built for our own good. The Temple once serving a good purpose but it became a distraction. The Gospels help us realize how ignorant we are of God’s perspective. The important thing in gaining perspective is to sit at the feet of the Master.

A tour guide once remarked that St Peter's Basilica cost most of northern Europe. Built by financial corruption, indulgences, it is a monument to sin and arrogant pride in the Church. Our traditions and structures can become monuments to our own sin and conceited arrogance which God must eventually destroy.

Jesus spoke of a permanent Temple. People are that house of God (Ephesians 2:18-20). We are the living stones (1 Peter 2:4-6) in a spiritual temple. Our hope is in a permanent structure being built by Jesus Christ. If we build with him we will not be disappointed.

Don’t be Deceived

Luke 21:7-9 So they asked Him, saying, “Teacher, but when will these things be? And what sign will there be when these things are about to take place?” 8 And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them. 9 But when you hear of wars and commotions, do not be terrified; for these things must come to pass first, but the end will not come immediately.”

Let’s not be deceived by wild claims about the end times. Let’s not be frightened. In the midst of calamity and destruction, let’s stand firm on God’s foundation: Jesus, the prophets and apostles, the whole Bible. End-time theories make us lazy. Real Christianity involves steadfastness in the midst of uncertainty.

An Occasion for Testimony

Luke 21:10-13 Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake. 13 But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony.

Many Christians live in GREAT tribulation in dozens of countries today, fellow Christians face North Korean labor camps and death, Saudi Arabian imprisonment, deportation, torture and death, Afghani kidnapping and killing, Iraqi home burning, abduction and murder, Somali abduction and murder with no religious freedom. Let us pray for them.

Every generation since the cross has thought that theirs was the last generation and none of them was right. Jesus encouraged us not to worry about being overly prepared but to put our faith in him. Worry and doubt distract us from the important job of spreading the gospel message.

Patient Endurance

Luke 21:14-19 Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist. 16 You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. 17 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. 18 But not a hair of your head shall be lost. 19 By your patience possess your souls.

By patient endurance, we will gain our lives. Martyr means testimony, a witness. 50 countries persecute Christians according to Open Doors and Voice of the Martyrs. Fake gospels contradict the reality of giving in self-sacrifice. God certainly does provide material blessings along with suffering. Jesus encouraged us to stand firm.

There are 4 predominant schools of prophecy: preterists (ancient fulfillment), historicists (fulfilled through history), futurists (to be fulfilled) and idealists (symbolic or spiritual fulfillment). The symbolic view can include all other views. Here we can see elements fulfilled in 70 AD and some more completely fulfilled only at Christ’s return.

Someday this earth will pass away. There will be a new heaven and a new earth. Our church buildings will be gone. False predictions and false gospels will be exposed. To God, the only important things are you and me. Have we learned to possess our souls? Are we trusting God with patient endurance, and gaining eternal life?

New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Readings

1st Reading: Isaiah 65:17-25

Isaiah 65:17-25 17 “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind. 18 But be glad and rejoice forever in what I create; For behold, I create Jerusalem as a rejoicing, And her people a joy. 19 I will rejoice in Jerusalem, And joy in My people; The voice of weeping shall no longer be heard in her, Nor the voice of crying.

20 “No more shall an infant from there live but a few days, Nor an old man who has not fulfilled his days; For the child shall die one hundred years old, But the sinner being one hundred years old shall be accursed. 21 They shall build houses and inhabit them; They shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit. 22 They shall not build and another inhabit; They shall not plant and another eat; For as the days of a tree, so shall be the days of My people, And My elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands. 23 They shall not labor in vain, Nor bring forth children for trouble; For they shall be the descendants of the blessed of the Lord, And their offspring with them.

24 “It shall come to pass That before they call, I will answer; And while they are still speaking, I will hear. 25 The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, The lion shall eat straw like the ox, And dust shall be the serpent’s food. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain,” Says the Lord.

Thus ends the reading from Isaiah 65.

This chapter of Isaiah offers a vision of a world with a wonderful future, a future that is at peace. In this new world God will not simply defeat enemies but transform their relationships. “The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, The lion shall eat straw like the ox.”

2nd Reading: Isaiah 12:1-6

Isaiah 12:1-6 And in that day you will say: “O Lord, I will praise You; Though You were angry with me, Your anger is turned away, and You comfort me. 2 Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; ‘For Yah, the Lord, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.’ ” 3 Therefore with joy you will draw water From the wells of salvation. 4 And in that day you will say: “Praise the Lord, call upon His name; Declare His deeds among the peoples, Make mention that His name is exalted. 5 Sing to the Lord, For He has done excellent things; This is known in all the earth. 6 Cry out and shout, O inhabitant of Zion, For great is the Holy One of Israel in your midst!”

The word of the Lord.

This is Isaiah’s song of praise to the Lord for His salvation. Isaiah thanks God for replacing His anger with mercy. That happens in Jesus Christ. Rather than fear we trust God. God will again grant Israel an “exodus” from “slavery.” Jesus is the “Living Water.” Eternal life begins now.

3rd Reading: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13

2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you; 8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, 9 not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us.

10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. 11 For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. 12 Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread. 13 But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good.

The Word of God for the people of God.

Paul instructs the Christians in Thessalonica on the importance of work and avoiding the creation of an “idle class” either on welfare but able to work or wealthy and not working. Neither is God’s intent for humanity. Never get tired of doing good works.

Luke 21:5-19 in Rhyme

Then, as some spoke of the temple
Adorned with stones so beautiful
And gifts to God dedicated
With which it was decorated

He said, “These things which you are beholding
The days will soon be unfolding
In which not one stone shall be left
On another, but thrown to rest.”

So they asked Him, saying, “Teacher
When will these things be a feature?
And what sign will there be when these
Things are about to take place please?”

He said: “Take heed you’re not deceived.
In My name heaps will be received
Saying, ‘I’m He,’ and, ‘The time’s near.’
Don’t go after them, when you hear.

When you hear of wars and tumults
Don’t waver; expect such results
But the end won’t come right away.”
And then He had some more to say

“Nation will rise against nation
Also kingdom against kingdom
There will be terrible earthquakes
In various places outbreaks

And famines, plagues and fearful sights
Also great signs from heaven’s heights
Before all these things come to pass
They’ll lay hands on you and harass

In the assemblies and prisons
You’ll be before rulers and kings
For My name’s sake you’ll testify
Don’t plan ahead what you’ll reply

I’ll give you a mouth and wisdom
Foes can’t fight with criticism
You’ll be betrayed by your brothers
By parents, friends and relatives

And they’ll even kill some of you
And for My name’s sake they’ll hate you
You won’t lose a hair on your head
Stand firm and win your life instead.”

The Second Coming

How do we react to signs of the end of the age? How would Jesus encourage us to proceed. Let’s examine Jesus’ prophecy in Luke 21:25-36.

Lift

Luke 21:25 “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves” Only figuratively, partially fulfilled in the Destruction of Jerusalem, this will be completely fulfilled at Jesus Christ’s Second Coming.

Luke 21:26 “men fainting from fear and the expectation of the things which are coming upon the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” Ancient prophecies foretold Christ’s Second Coming. Darkness (Isaiah 13:9-10) under cloud (Ezekiel 32:7-8), blood, fire and smoke (Joel 2:30-31).

Luke 21:27 “Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.” This refers to His Second Coming (Daniel 7:13). He will return as He went (Acts 1:9-11; Matthew 26:64), and every eye will see Him (Revelation 1:7).

Luke 21:28 “But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Redemption from Jewish persecution in 70 AD was partial fulfillment of the redemption that Christians will experience at Christ’s return. Look up! He is coming soon!

Behold

Luke 21:29-31 “Then He told them a parable: “Behold the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they put forth leaves, you see it and know for yourselves that summer is now near. So you also, when you see these things happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near.”

Deciduous trees sprout leaves indicating an upcoming change of seasons. So too will world events will indicate that “these things BEGIN to take place.” These things? What things? Signs in the sky way beyond normal, and people fainting in fear, precede what? Look up! He is coming in the clouds!

Luke 21:32 “Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all things take place.” This generation applies two ways. That generation did not pass until partial fulfilment of this prophecy in Jerusalem. But “all things” can take place within a single generation before Christ returns.

Luke 21:33 “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.” Prophecies confirms that there will be a new heaven and earth (Isaiah 65:17; Isaiah 66:22; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1), and the word of God stands forever (Isaiah 40:8).

Pray

Luke 21:34-35 “Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth.”

The Greek for “dissipation” or “surfeiting” is literally a drunk headache, and implies debauchery. Faith in God’s care displaces worry. The snare or trap suddenly springs, picturing the speed of these events unfolding. If our focus is constantly on the things of God, we will be ready for His return.

Luke 21:36 “But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” As faith wins against worry, prayer wins the escape and we stand before Christ.

As these things begin to take place, let’s straighten up and lift up our heads looking to the clouds. The kingdom of God is near. Be on guard! Let’s not be weighed down with excess and worry. Let’s stay alert! Pray for strength to escape, and to stand before our coming king.

Luke 21:25-36; Isaiah 13:9-10; Ezekiel 32:7-8; Joel 2:30-31; Daniel 7:13; Acts 1:9-11; Matthew 26:64; Revelation 1:7; Isaiah 65:17; Isaiah 66:22; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1; Isaiah 40:8

New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation

You are the Church

Intro

I’m going to utter a prophecy. The gates of hell will not destroy this church. Jesus said that in Matthew 16:18. When he said that, he was not talking about a building. He was talking about the people, because people are the church.

Goal

Let’s learn that real estate is not the church, people are.

Sermon Plan

Let’s look at Luke 21:1-19 and discuss church success, what impresses God, church buildings, tribulation, fear, prophecy and endurance.

Luke 21:1 While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. 2 Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. 3 “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. 4 For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.”

5 Some of his disciples began talking about the majestic stonework of the Temple and the memorial decorations on the walls. But Jesus said, 6 “The time is coming when all these things will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!” 7 “Teacher,” they asked, “when will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to take place?”

8 He replied, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and saying, ‘The time has come!’ But don’t believe them. 9 And when you hear of wars and insurrections, don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place first, but the end won’t follow immediately.” 10 Then he added, “Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things and great miraculous signs from heaven.

12 “But before all this occurs, there will be a time of great persecution. You will be dragged into synagogues and prisons, and you will stand trial before kings and governors because you are my followers. 13 But this will be your opportunity to tell them about me. 14 So don’t worry in advance about how to answer the charges against you, 15 for I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you! 16 Even those closest to you—your parents, brothers, relatives, and friends—will betray you. They will even kill some of you. 17 And everyone will hate you because you are my followers. 18 But not a hair of your head will perish! 19 By standing firm, you will win your souls.

Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Success (vs. 1-4)

Jerusalem’s Temple was renovated around 19 BC and destroyed in 70 AD. It was so magnificent that it could easily surpass many of today’s most magnificent churches. God destroyed it because it was not a successful building. It became an idol. Successful churches are those not those with the most magnificent buildings but those that preach Christ and change lives.

A Successful Life (vs. 1-4)

A life of stinginess and accumulation is a mean and empty life. One example of generosity stands out, though she gave very little. This person, who was otherwise completely unknown, was a great giver. It was not the amount given away that gauges her financial success, but the percentage. That's what the story of the widow's mite is all about.

What Impresses God (vs. 1-4)

The disciples were impressed by the temple. God is not impressed by materialism. Jesus had the most praise for a widow who gave very generously at the temple. Could it just be that one of the most important reasons to attend a church is the opportunity to learn from the examples of the many faithful people with whom we fellowship?

Closing Church Buildings (vs. 1-4)

Jesus predicted that the temple at Jerusalem, which was an institution for over 500 years, would be destroyed. God is sometimes in the business of closing buildings. Jesus’ prediction came right after he had praised a widow for her very generous contribution to the temple fund, the proverbial widow’s mite. Church buildings are not the "forever" part of church life.

Church Size (vs. 5)

The majesty of a large church service can be awe-inspiring. Yet the intimacy and healing embrace of a small church is unsurpassed. Jesus did not promise large churches would be the norm or even a sign of success. Some few ancient churches were large. Usually, they were small and scattered. Size is not a sign of success; standing firm is.

A church choice (vs. 5)

What if Jesus presented us with a choice between a large and beautiful church building or having no building, enduring suffering and being despised? What if by choosing the latter and standing firm, we could have eternal life? Buildings can be idols. Jesus is more impressed with the grandeur of a heart which stands firm for him no matter what.

Destruction for Progress (vs. 6)

Change often causes anger. When churches look to traditions and not God’s instructions, our complications and not the simplicity of Christ, sometimes existing structures must go. Jesus prophesied that the temple would be destroyed, heralding a revolution in faith. If we are not willing to move forward in faith, God may destroy what we have built for our own good.

Buildings as Idols (vs. 6)

Christians are united in Jesus, but even good traditions can become like idols and need to be destroyed. The temple once served a good purpose, but had become a national idol. The more we study Jesus, the more we realize how ignorant we are of God’s perspective. The most important thing is to sit at the feet of the Master.

St Peter's Basilica cost what (vs. 6)

A tour guide once remarked that St Peter's Basilica cost most of northern Europe. Protestant churches left largely because of the financial scandal in building it. It is a monument to sin and arrogant pride in the Church. The traditions and structures we have built can become monuments to our own sin and conceited arrogance which God must eventually destroy.

A permanent Structure (vs. 6)

Jesus predicted the temple’s destruction and spoke of a truly permanent temple and an important cornerstone. People are that house of God (Ephesians 2:18-20). We are the living stones (1 Peter 2:4-6) in a spiritual temple. Our hope is in a permanent structure being built by Jesus Christ. If we build with him we will not be disappointed.

A Firm Foundation (vs. 6)

Jesus placed spiritual depth before buildings. A good building has a foundation that stands firm. We are to stand firm. Jesus listed things that help us stand firm: Don’t following false preachers who make wild claims about salvation and the end of the world. Do not be frightened. In the midst of calamity and hatred, stand firm on God’s foundation.

The Time is Near (vs. 8)

People have predicted the end for 2,000 years and Jesus warned us not to follow them (Luke 21:1-19). The day, hour and nearness of Christ’s return are unknown. When we believe that we are certain of the nearness of Christ’s return, we become lazy. Yet, real Christianity involves keeping on keeping on even in the midst of uncertainty.

Great Tribulation (vs. 11-14)

Christians live great tribulation in dozens of countries today. North Korean Christians face labor camps and death. Saudi Arabian Christians are threatened with imprisonment, deportation, torture and death. Afghanistani Christians face kidnapping and killing. In Iraq they are threatened with home burning, abduction and murder. Somali Christians face abduction and murder with no religious freedom. Let us pray for them.

Fearless in Fearful Times (vs. 11-14)

There are many reasons for fear. Jesus informed believers about the reality of fearful times, but encouraged them not to be afraid. Can we be fearless in fearful times? Every aspect of our lives, even the hairs on our heads are under God’s control. It takes faith to stand firm until the end and in so doing win eternal life.

Living by Faith (vs. 11-14)

Every generation since Christ thought that theirs was the last generation and none of them was right. What a lot of time was wasted! Jesus encouraged us not to worry about being overly prepared but to put our faith in him. Worry and doubt distract us from the most important job at hand which it to spread the gospel message.

Dying Testimony (vs. 16)

Martyr also means testimony. A witness is to die for our faith as martyrs. 50 countries which persecute Christians are on the list at Open Doors. The Voice of the Martyrs tells many of their stories. May we pray for them and follow their example by standing firm no matter what may come, so that we too "will win life."

Difficult Christianity (vs. 17)

The prosperity gospel is not real Christianity. We see the reality of a Christian life as Jesus predicted hardships which would follow true believers. God certainly does provide material blessings to the faithful at times, but suffering also comes to Christians precisely because they are obedient. Jesus encouraged us to stand firm and inherit something greater than materialism, eternal life.

4 Views of Prophecy (vs. 20, 27)

There are 4 predominant schools of prophecy: preterists (ancient fulfillment), historicists (fulfilled through history), futurists (to be fulfilled) and idealists (symbolic or spiritual fulfillment). The fourth symbolic view can include all other views. In Luke 21:5-19 we can see elements which were fulfilled in 70 AD and some which will be more logically completely fulfilled only at Christ’s return.

Outro/Take Home

Like all temporary things, buildings have never been important to God. What is more important is lives changed and people that will live forever with him.

On Guard, Alert & Praying

Intro

How should Christians react to signs of the end of the age?

Purpose

Let’s look at the purpose of prophecy and how Jesus encourages us to proceed.

Plan

We will examine, the second part of Jesus’ prophecy in Luke 21:25-36 and what he wants us to do about it.

Luke 21:25 “And there will be strange signs in the sun, moon, and stars. And here on earth the nations will be in turmoil, perplexed by the roaring seas and strange tides. 26 People will be terrified at what they see coming upon the earth, for the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then everyone will see the Son of Man coming on a cloud with power and great glory. 28 So when all these things begin to happen, stand and look up, for your salvation is near!” 29 Then he gave them this illustration: “Notice the fig tree, or any other tree. 30 When the leaves come out, you know without being told that summer is near. 31 In the same way, when you see all these things taking place, you can know that the Kingdom of God is near. 32 I tell you the truth, this generation will not pass from the scene until all these things have taken place. 33 Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear. 34 “Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware, 35 like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth. 36 Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man.”

(Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright© 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.)

Signs (vs. 25-28)

Jesus begins this chapter with short-range prophecy about the destruction of the Temple, then moves to longer-range prophecies. Signs of Christ’s return are astronomical, international troubles, oceanographic, and terror. While the world cringes in fear of the coming of the Son of Man, we Christians are able to rise above fear. What is the difference? Those who are too tied to this world fear and mourn, whereas those who are expectant of a better world have faith and look forward to Christ’s coming. The term Son of Man comes from the book of Daniel. We should stand up and look with confidence, because literally “redemption” is near. We cannot know the day or hour, but we CAN KNOW that God’s kingdom is near. This is good news for those who believe Jesus and submit to his reign over our lives.

Faithful not Fearful (vs. 29-36)

Prophecy ought not make us fearful, but faithful. The analogy of a fig tree getting its leaves, indicating that summer is coming, indicates a different way of reckoning the seasons. Moderns like the day-and-hour concept of seasons. For instance, in the USA, summer 2016 begins Monday, June 20 at 6:35 PM EDT. We can also determine seasons by looking at plants and weather. In this way we speak of summer coming late or early. Jesus’ coming cannot be determined by the day-and-hour, but only by its nearness and it’s approach should spur us to readiness. The term “this generation” is not necessarily a length of time, but could also refer to fearful people attached to this world who resist the Gospel. That kind of people will not pass until Christ returns. Jesus encourages believers to be ready and in prayer.

Jesus’ Reappearing

Jesus is actually with us every moment, but he is hidden to our eyes "behind that invisible veil which keeps heaven and earth apart, and which we pierce in those moments, such as prayer, the sacraments, the reading of scriptures, and our work with the poor.”1 One day we will see with our eyes. Heaven and earth will be one. At that time every knee shall bow, creation will be new again, the dead will be raised and the kingdom of heaven will be here in all its fulness. Before then Jesus speaks of signs alluding to prophecies like Isaiah 13:9-10; Ezekiel 32:7-8; and Joel 2:30-31. As this world and its institutions come to an end there will be two kinds of people, those who live in fear and panic, and those who live in faith.

1Wright, N. T. Simply Christian Why Christianity Makes Sense. San Francisco, Calif.: HarperSanFrancisco, 2006. Print. 219.

Positive Steps in a Negative World

Looking down at the world we see turmoil and negativity. Jesus says to stand and look up, for your salvation is near! Where are our minds’ eyes focused? If the fig tree pictures the Jews and any other tree the nations, do we see signs there that his coming is near? Jesus says that we can know that the Kingdom of God is near. Why are we sad about nations rising and falling, when we know that the present heaven and earth will disappear, but his words will never disappear? Our generation is familiar with horror; we see it on the news; some even enjoy it as entertainment; as a society we are weighed down with self-indulgence and worries. Jesus says, watch out! If we fall asleep spiritually, that day may catch us unaware like a trap. Keep alert and pray.

Outro

Stand and look up, notice the fig tree. We don’t know the day or hour, but we can know that it’s near. Watch out! Don’t be dulled, don’t be worried, don’t be caught unaware. Keep alert, pray to escape and stand before Christ.

Stand firm and you will win life

Intro 

How important is a building to God? How important is a building to his kingdom? What is more important? 

Goal 

I want us to learn that God is not overly impressed with church real estate. 

Sermon Plan 

Read Luke 21:1-19. We will discuss church success, what impresses God, church buildings, tribulation, fear, prophecy and endurance. 

Successful churches (vs. 1-4) 

The Arch of Titus in Rome features the sack of Jerusalem in 70 AD. Jesus predicted it. Spoils stolen from the Temple are pictured on the south panel of the arch like the menorah, golden trumpets and table of shew-bread. The Temple was built around 19 BC. It’s outer walls were not completed until a few years before their destruction by Rome. Herod constructed temples to pagan gods as well as Jerusalem. The widow’s mite also paid paid the upkeep of this temple. The temple was so magnificent that it could easily surpass many of today’s most magnificent churches. Though magnificent God had it destroyed because it was not a successful building. It had become an idol. Successful churches are those not those with the most magnificent buildings but those that preach Christ and change lives. 

Most successful life (vs. 1-4) 

There is an old saying about success that he who dies with the most toys wins. It is a rather revealing commentary on shallow materialistic goals. Some wealthy people seem to try and gain accolades by public displays of philanthropy. Is such a life the most successful? It is certainly a better example than the alternative. A life of stinginess and accumulation can be partaken of by every social class and it is a mean and empty life. On the scale of success through generosity, there is one example that stands out above the rest, and it is not the person who gives the most in monetary value. There is a person, who is often completely unknown, who is the greatest. It is not the amount given away that gauges financial success, but the percentage. That's what the story of the widow's mite is all about. 

What impresses most at church (vs. 1-4) 

When Jesus was at the temple in Jerusalem he was not impressed by most of the religious leaders. His disciples were impressed with the architecture. His comments indicate a very different perspective than what is normal in our society. What impresses us most at church? Is it puffed up people with big titles and fancy clothes? Is it extravagant and ornate church architecture? Some people are offended by churches because of such things. God is also offended when we are more impressed with status and materialism than with him. Jesus had the most praise for a widow who gave very generously at the temple. Could it just be that one of the most important reasons to attend a church is the opportunity to learn from the examples of the many faithful people with whom we fellowship? 

Closing church buildings (vs. 1-4) 

Everybody hates to close a church building down. It’s seems like giving up ground in the church’s spiritual battle. It is also one of the most difficult jobs in church life. My Greek professor at graduate school loved it. He saw it as a necessary part of keeping church life healthy. We become so attached to real estate that we begin to believe that the church is buildings instead of people. So it was with ancient Israel. Jesus predicted that the temple at Jerusalem, which had lasted over 500 years, would be destroyed. God is sometimes in the business of closing down buildings. Jesus’ prediction came right after he had praised a widow for her very generous contribution to the temple fund, the proverbial widow’s mite. Church buildings are not the "forever" part of church life. 

The battle over church size (vs. 5) 

Many Christians are intimidated by mega-churches and their larger than life leaders. It is as if we believe that quantity is far more important than quality. Don’t get me wrong. Sometimes the majesty of a large church service is awe-inspiring. Yet the intimacy and healing embrace of a small church is unsurpassed. However, size does not guarantee spiritual depth. Sometimes the preaching in a large church is hollow and trite, while the preaching in a small country church can be rich and deep. The opposite can also be true. Jesus did not promise large churches would be the norm or even a sign of success. Some few times local churches were large anciently. More often, they were small and scattered during very difficult times. Size is not mentioned as a sign of success; standing firm is. 

A church choice (vs. 5) 

What if Jesus were to present us with two church choices? On the one hand, we could meet in a large and beautiful building with community respect and international acclaim. It would contain gold and magnificently dressed priests. On the other hand, there would be no gold and church leaders may be dressed very ordinarily. We could be scattered without a building, endure suffering and be despised. Most of us would readily prefer the former. What if the choice came with a caveat, that if we chose the latter and stood firm, we could have eternal life? That is similar to what Jesus predicted. Buildings can be idols. We are overly impressed with the things of this world. Jesus is more impressed with the grandeur of a heart which stands firm for him no matter what. 

Destruction for progress (vs. 6) 

When rebuilding old shrinking churches there are two inevitable things we must face: change and conflict. Any rebuilding necessarily destroys something old. Sometimes drastic action is required and anger arises. In church life we tend to focus overly much on things that we have built and not enough on people. We look too much to our traditions and not enough to God’s instructions. We worship our complications and not the simplicity of Christ. The same was true in ancient Israel. In order to rebuild the faith, sometimes existing structures must go. When Jesus prophesied that the temple would be destroyed, he was predicting an important change, a revolution in faith. If we are not willing to move forward in faith, then perhaps God will step in and destroy what we have built for our own good. 

Admitting our ignorance (vs. 6) 

Christians are divided by ideas yet united in Jesus. Some are proud of a tradition of ignorance and lack of education. They claim that the apostles were uneducated men, yet they were educated for 3 years by the Master. Others praise their own education in the traditions of their denomination and look down their noses at the teachings of others. Yet, even good ideas can become like idols. Idols need to be destroyed. The same was true of the temple in Jerusalem. It had once served a good purpose, but it had become a national idol. The more we study Jesus, the more we realize how ignorant we are of God’s perspective. Instead of being vain about our education or lack of it, let’s all realize our mutual ignorance and sit at the feet of the Master. 

St Peter's Basilica cost what (vs. 6) 

A story is making the circuit of a tour group being shown through St Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. One tourist asked how much it cost and the astute priest tour guide responded that it cost most of northern Europe. He was referring to the Protestant churches which left the western Christian Church in large part because of the financial scandal associated with funding that building. In another sense then, instead of being a monument to the Apostle Peter, it is also a monument to sin and arrogant pride in the Church. Jesus’ prediction of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem carries with it similar lessons. If we are not willing to change, then the traditions and structures we have built can become monuments to our own sin and conceited arrogance which God must eventually destroy. 

Building a permanent structure (vs. 6) 

The Jerusalem temple was so incredible a building that when the sun reflected off its gold covered sides, people had to look away, it was so bright. Jesus predicted its destruction but also spoke of a truly permanent temple and an important cornerstone. We are that house of God (Ephesians 2:18-20). We so easily forget that people are more important than buildings. The beautiful physical stones of that worldly building were destroyed. We are the living stones (1 Peter 2:4-6) that are being placed into a spiritual temple. People still weep for the destroyed temple in Jerusalem today. They are deeply disappointed that it is a ruin. Our hope is not in physical buildings but a permanent structure being built by Jesus Christ. If we build with him we will not be disappointed. 

A mile wide & an inch deep (vs. 6) 

A church planter friend once said that he knew how to build a church a mile wide and an inch deep, but that only a true pastor could build depth. A principle behind Jesus’ prediction of the destruction of the temple was the greater importance of inner spiritual depth over visible signs like buildings. How then do we build a foundation of spiritual depth if the comfort of a building does not help? A good building has a foundation that stands firm. We are to stand firm. A list of things outside of a church building that helps us stand firm follows: Don’t following false preachers who make wild claims about salvation and the end of the world. Do not be frightened. In the midst of calamity and hatred, rely upon the strengthening that God gives. 

The time is near (vs. 8) 

People have predicted that the time is near every century for the past 2,000 years. Yet a major thing about that kind of prediction is frequently neglected: the warning that Jesus made not to follow people who make such predictions. That’s right! If you don’t believe me, just take a look at Jesus’ own words in Luke 21:1-19. He said that many would come predicting that the time is near. Then he said something very shocking, Don’t follow them. Wow! Have you ever noticed that? False prophets are a dime a dozen. Yet, not only are the day and hour unknown, but also the nearness of Christ’s return. When we believe that we are certain of the nearness of Christ’s return, we become lazy. Yet, real Christianity involves keeping on keeping on even in the midst of uncertainty. 

Warning bells (vs. 8) 

How can we tell if a preacher is on the right path, way off the track or somewhere in between? None of us can claim that we are all right on every issue, but we often deceive ourselves into thinking that we are more right than wrong. Jesus taught some major warning signs that would distinguish false teachers from the rest of us who, although still very faulty are perhaps at least headed in the right direction. Jesus describes those giving off such alarm bells as many not few. Not too many claim to be Jesus, but many do make Messiah-like claims such as the sole place to find salvation or exclusive knowledge about salvation. People who make prophetic claims about the immediacy of Jesus’ return are certainly sounding a warning bell — not to follow them! 

Christians living in great tribulation (vs. 12) 

Warnings in prophecies like Luke 21:5-19 are strange to us in countries with great religious freedom — Christians tried, believers betrayed by relatives and friends, some put to death, everyone hating us because of Christ. Christians live such tribulation in about 50 countries today. North Korea is the worst. An estimated 400,000 Christians face labor camps and death if caught. Saudi Arabia is second worst. It has no religious freedom. 1¼ million Christians are threatened with imprisonment, deportation, torture and death. Afghanistan is next worst. Thousands of Christians there face kidnapping and killing. With over 300,000 Christians Iraq is next, where they are threatened with home burning, abduction and murder. Last in the worst 5 is Somalia, where a few hundred Christians live. They face abduction and murder with no religious freedom. Let us pray for them. 

Fearless in fearful times (vs. 11-14) 

Our society is afraid of many things and fear is big business. Fear sells merchandise from pharmaceutical drugs to newspapers, from insurance to airport security systems. It buys votes for political candidates. It is profitable for politicians and businesses to lead us into fear. This encourages a relationship of dependency for profit. At the same time there are many real reasons to fear. Despite the profit motive which encourages fear, things to be feared are not all imaginary or exaggerated. Jesus informed believers several times about the reality of fearful times, but encouraged them not to be afraid. Can we be fearless in fearful times? Every aspect of our lives, even the hairs on our heads, are under God’s control. It takes faith to stand firm until the end and in so doing win eternal life. 

Doomsday prepping or living by faith (vs. 14) 

Some people read apocalyptic literature and try to hide in man-made caves, while others read it and resolve to live a fuller Christian life by faith. There certainly is a time to flee from impending persecution. So, why is it better to live life under normal circumstances by faith than be a worried prepper? Nobody knows the day or hour of calamitous times. Every generation since Christ thought that theirs was the last generation and none of them was right. What a lot of time was wasted. Many false prophets have taken advantage of people by making such false predictions. Jesus encouraged us not to worry about being overly prepared but to put our faith in him. Worry and doubt distract us from the most important job at hand which it to spread the gospel message. 

Dying testimony (vs. 16) 

We have borrowed a word from Greek to mean someone who dies for their faith. The word in English is martyr. It comes from a similar Greek word used in Luke 21:5-19 which is often translated as testimony. For many Christians their witness or testimony has been in their willingness to die for their faith, to be martyrs. And what a testimony! Throughout Christian history many have been betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and some have been put to death. Currently 50 countries are on the world watch list at Open Doors of those who persecute Christians the worst and the Voice of the Martyrs tells many of their stories. May we pray for them and follow their example by standing firm no matter what may come, so that we too "will win life." 

Difficult Christianity (vs. 17) 

The fiction of the prosperity gospel attracts many suckers, but it is not real Christianity. It is the snake oil salesman’s version of the real thing. It is a counterfeit which enriches the false preachers who gladly ask for your so called “seed money.” One place to see the reality of a Christian life is where Jesus predicted many hardships which would follow true believers. Does that mean that God never provides material blessings to the obedient? Of course he does. The problem with prosperity preaching is that many teach that if you suffer, you must have been disobedient. That is the exact opposite of what Jesus taught and the early church experienced. Suffering comes to Christians precisely because they are obedient. Jesus encouraged us to stand firm and inherit something greater than materialism, eternal life. 

Model T Endurance (vs. 19) 

I once knew of two elderly brothers who owned a farm and still used the first and only car they ever bought, a Model T Ford. Once a month they drove it to town for supplies. When most of us change cars occasionally, they endured through all the repairs, changes of parts and even occasional change of engines to keep their one and only car for life. In a throwaway world, most of us do not have such endurance. Yet, there are some things that we keep for life. It may be family bonds, keepsakes, a bank account or a phone number. Our bodies change dramatically over a lifetime but our fingerprints change very little. Endurance is a habit that we make consciously and against all odds. It is a good habit that leads to eternal life. 

4 popular views of prophecy (vs. 20, 27) 

Apocalyptic books such as Daniel and Revelation are accepted in all Christian Bibles. There are studied with 4 predominant views of prophecy: fulfillment mostly in very early history, mostly throughout history, mostly in the future and symbolic fulfillment any time any place. These four camps are often called preterism (ancient fulfillment), historicism, futurism and idealism (symbolic or spiritual fulfillment). Because apocalyptic literature is largely symbolic in genre, it seems logical to see its prophecies as also symbolic. A symbolic view also has a place for all three other views. So when we read of prophecies in other literature such as that in Luke 21:5-19 we can see elements which were fulfilled at least in type shortly afterwards (Jerusalem surrounded and trampled) and some which will be more logically completely fulfilled only at Christ’s return (the Son of Man coming). 

Outro/Take Home 

Like all temporary things, buildings never have been important to God. What is more important is living changed and people that will live forever with him.