Lesson 18
Discerning the Signs of the Times
Scripture References:
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Matthew 16:2–3 – “He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?”
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Luke 21:28 – “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.”
Lesson Objective
To develop spiritual discernment in recognizing biblical prophetic signs and to live with expectation and hope for Christ’s soon return.
Main Points
1. The Call to Spiritual Awareness
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Jesus rebuked the Pharisees and Sadducees for failing to discern the spiritual signs even though they could interpret natural ones.
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The last days will be marked by clear prophetic indicators in global events, society, and the Church.
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Believers are commanded to “watch” and not be spiritually asleep (Mark 13:33).
2. Signs in the World
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Wars, rumors of wars, pestilences, earthquakes, and natural disasters (Matthew 24:6–7).
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Increasing lawlessness, moral decay, and societal upheaval.
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Israel’s restoration and the prophetic alignment of nations (Ezekiel 37–38).
3. Signs in the Church
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Apostasy and lukewarmness among believers (2 Thessalonians 2:3; Revelation 3:15–16).
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False prophets and false teachings spreading widely (Matthew 24:11).
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Outpouring of the Holy Spirit and revival in some places (Joel 2:28–29; Acts 2:17).
4. The Right Response to the Signs
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Look up with anticipation—our redemption is near (Luke 21:28).
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Live with readiness and holy conduct (2 Peter 3:11–12).
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Be about the Father’s business, sharing the gospel urgently.
Practical Applications
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Daily Watchfulness – Stay updated not just on world news but on what Scripture says about the times.
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Prayer for Discernment – Ask God for wisdom to distinguish truth from deception.
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Encourage Others – Use discussions about world events as opportunities to point people to Christ.
Discussion Questions
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How can we guard against becoming numb to prophetic signs because of constant news overload?
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Which biblical signs do you see being fulfilled in our generation?
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How does knowing “our redemption draweth nigh” change the way you live?
Memory Verse
Luke 21:28 – “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.”
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