The End Times According to Jesus: The Olivet Discourse

Introduction to the Series

• Series Title: The End Times According to Jesus
• Subtitle: The Olivet Discourse
• Reason for Title: To generate curiosity and interest
• Olivet Discourse: Jesus' teaching on the Mount of Olives about the end times
• Five Discourses in Matthew:
  1. Sermon on the Mount (Chapters 5-7)
  2. Mission Discourse (Chapter 10)
  3. Parabolic Discourse (Chapter 13)
  4. Discourse on the Church (Chapter 18)
  5. Olivet Discourse (Chapters 23-25)

Eschatology

• Definition: Study of the end times (Greek: eschatos means last or end)
• Importance: Requires comprehensive understanding of the Bible, especially the Old Testament
• Books Key to Understanding: Revelation and Daniel
• Pastors' Limitations: Many pastors lack deep knowledge of the Old Testament; hence, eschatology is seldom taught

Personal Background

• Education: Bachelor’s in Biblical Literature (Historical Theology), Minor in New Testament Greek, Master’s in Theology (Systematic Theology)
• Experience: 20 years before teaching eschatology; continued personal study outside sermon preparation

Importance of Foundational Knowledge

• Objective: Lay a foundation for understanding end times before diving into Jesus' teachings
• Duration: 3-4 weeks of foundational learning

The Rapture

• Definition: Event where believers (both living and dead) are taken to meet the Lord in the air
• Distinction from Second Coming: Rapture is different from Jesus' return to Earth after the Great Tribulation
• Common Misconceptions: The word