biblestudy: Matthew (Part 22)
Matthew 24
John W. Ritenbaugh
Given 20-Oct-82; Tape #BS-MA22
Description: Before continuing on with the twenty-second installment expounding the book of Matthew, John Ritenbaugh, reflecting back to his ordination to local elder, observes that the ministry is an office that no one can join; one must be placed into it. The ministry is set apart to serve Christ to carry out functions on behalf of the congregation, following the Levites example of (1) maintaining the tabernacle or temple, (2) maintaining the music services, and (3) teaching the people, exhorting them to stay free from sin and plague. No man takes this honor unto himself; even Jesus Christ was appointed to the office of High Priest. The ministry has been set apart as a gift to perfect and edify the saints, bringing them to the stature of Christ. The key to understanding Matthew 24 is in comparing it with Revelation 6, giving the first six of the seven seals, subsuming the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, events which parallel Matthew 24. Following the tribulation will appear the terrifying heavenly signs followed by the dreadful Day of the Lord. The resurrection of the saints will occur before the seven last plagues. After Jesus gives these prophecies, He gives an exhortation to give heed to the obvious warning signs as had our father Noah. Many of these signs have only been possible in recent times. If we are caught up in the cares of the world, we may be blindsided by these events. The context of Matthew 24:40-43 does not refer to a "Rapture," as some Protestants have assumed, but refer to the return of Jesus Christ. We are admonished to be watchful, not having the attitude that we have plenty of time, being ever mindful that our acceptance or rejection by God is dependent upon our stewardship. (81 minutes)
Topics: (show)
|
(To download, right-click on the icon for the format of your choice and select "Save target as...") |
The transcript for this audio message is not available yet.
