Sunday morning we delved deep into the subject of end times prophecies and how to approach them with both wisdom and skepticism. For those who couldn’t join us or would like a refresher, here are a few key takeaways from the sermon:

• Skepticism is Healthy: It’s important to approach end times predictions with a critical eye, using biblical wisdom to discern the truth from sensationalism.
• Context Matters: We examined how cultural and historical contexts can influence our understanding of scriptures, emphasizing that verses like Matthew 24:29 should be interpreted in light of their original setting.
• Beware of Misinterpretation: The sermon warned against using Bible verses to predict specific events, such as using the date of a solar eclipse to declare the end of the world.
• Historical Insight: We explored the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD and how it serves as a reminder that earthly kingdoms are transient and that prophecies have context that is often overlooked.
• Don’t Be Deceived: We must guard against those who use fear to manipulate others, particularly when they claim to predict Jesus’ return or other apocalyptic events.
• Faithfulness and Discernment: The sermon concluded with a call to live faithfully and to steward our lives wisely, praying for discernment to resist deceptive teachings and to embrace genuine revelation.

We at Revive Chicago Church must be equipped with tools to navigate prophetic claims with a balanced and educated approach. As we move forward, let us hold onto these insights and apply them to our daily walk with the Lord.

Five Day Bible Reading Plan and Devotional

Day 1: Understanding Prophecy and Discernment

Bible Reading: Matthew 24:1-14

Devotional: Today we reflect on the words of Jesus regarding the signs of the end times. In a world full of predictions and conspiracy theories, it’s crucial to understand the biblical perspective on discerning truth. Jesus warned of false prophets and the need for vigilance. As you read, consider how Jesus emphasized the importance of steadfastness in faith amidst deception and turmoil. Ask yourself, how can you apply discernment in evaluating modern-day claims about the end times?

Reflection Question: What signs does Jesus say will indicate the end times, and how can you avoid being led astray by false teachings?

Day 2: The Significance of Scripture Context

Bible Reading: Matthew 24:15-28

Devotional: As we continue exploring Matthew 24, we see Jesus providing specific instructions and warnings to His disciples. Context is key when interpreting prophetic scripture. Today, ponder the historical and cultural backdrop of Jesus’ words. Think about how this passage applies to the original audience and the lessons it holds for believers today.

Reflection Question: How does understanding the context of Jesus’ prophecy help you discern its application for your life?

Day 3: Heeding Warnings and Staying Watchful

Bible Reading: Matthew 24:29-35

Devotional: Jesus describes cosmic disturbances as signs of the end. In our search for wisdom, we’re reminded to not be carried away by every claim of prophetic fulfillment. Reflect on the natural and human inclination to seek signs and wonder if this aligns with Jesus’ teaching. Consider the balance between awareness of the times and unwavering trust in God’s sovereignty.

Reflection Question: What does Jesus mean when He talks about the sun being darkened, and how can you stay focused on His message rather than external events?

Day 4: The Fall of Jerusalem as a Historical Lesson

Bible Reading: Luke 21:20-24

Devotional: Today we turn to Luke’s account of Jesus’ prophecy concerning the destruction of Jerusalem. This event in 70 AD serves as a historical reminder of the fulfillment of Jesus’ words and the reality of prophetic warnings. Contemplate the transient nature of earthly kingdoms and the enduring truth of God’s word.

Reflection Question: How does the historical event of Jerusalem’s destruction influence your understanding of biblical prophecy and God’s faithfulness?

Day 5: Remaining Faithful Amidst Uncertainty

Bible Reading: 2 Peter 3:3-14

Devotional: In his second letter, Peter encourages believers to remain steadfast, despite scoffers and the uncertainty of the times. The call is to live holy and godly lives as we await the Lord’s return. Reflect on the call to be vigilant, not in predicting the exact time of the end, but in living a life that honors God each day.

Reflection Question: How can you cultivate a lifestyle of faithfulness and stewardship as you anticipate the Lord’s return, according to Peter’s exhortation?

Closing Prayer for the Week:

Heavenly Father, as we delve into Your word this week, grant us wisdom and discernment to understand the times without falling into the trap of fear or deception. Help us to heed Your warnings with sober-mindedness and to live with the expectation of Your return, grounded in faith and love. May we steward our days wisely, ever watchful for Your genuine truths. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This Resurrection Sunday, we journeyed through the profound story of Christ’s crucifixion and the joyous celebration of His resurrection. As we read from the Gospel of John, allow the familiar words to renew your spirit, and reflect on the diversity of perspectives offered by the four Gospels as they tell the greatest story ever told. It’s important that we tap into the intricate web of historical figures and cultural contexts that shaped the final moments of Jesus, exploring their roles in the poignant narrative that lies at the very heart of our faith.

In this sermon, we also trace the connections between the dawn of creation and the new beginning symbolized by Jesus’ resurrection. We delve into the emotions of the empty tomb discovery, the initial disbelief of the disciples, and how these events parallel the challenges and skepticism of our own faith journeys. Let’s not settle for a simple retelling but a true re-experiencing of these sacred moments. Jesus is inviting you to grasp the transformative power of the resurrection as it redefines our existence. 

Notice the parallels with the Creation Story too. In Genesis, on Day Six, God made humanity. On Day Seven He rested. In the story of Jesus’ death, we see that on the sixth day (Good Friday) God re-made humanity. On the seventh day, He rested (laid in the tomb). And on the 1st day of the (new) week He said, “Let there be light!” We have a new first day of the week, the celebration of the eighth day. A day of new beginnings! 

Quick takeaways from the Sermon:

• The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus are at the core of our faith, and revisiting this story can renew our spirit.
• Understanding the cultural and historical context of Jesus’ time can deepen our appreciation of the Easter narrative.
• Jesus’ resurrection signifies a new creation, inviting us to embrace transformation and live out the power of our renewed faith.
• Encountering the risen Christ is about spiritual rebirth, impacting not only our knowledge but our entire being and relationship with God.
• Gratitude and action are our responses to the resurrection, as we turn our personal trials into triumphs, celebrating the renewing power of faith. 

This week, let’s reflect on these points and consider how the resurrection story can continue to shape our lives. May we all carry the joy and power of this message into our daily interactions and embrace the changes within as we walk in the light of Christ. 

As a church, we at Revive Chicago desperately need an authentic encounter with the risen Christ. By His power, we begin a metamorphosis within, as we embrace the redemption offered to us and how it restores our connection with Jesus. Together, let’s turn our personal trials into triumphs, just as graves were turned into gardens, celebrating the renewing power of faith on this Resurrection Sunday.

Begin Bible Reading Plan and Devotional

Day 1: The Crucifixion Reading: John 19:16-27 

Devotional:

Today we reflect on the somber moments of Jesus’ crucifixion. As you read John’s account, ponder the gravity of what it meant for Jesus to carry His own cross to Golgotha. The sacrifice of Jesus is a portrayal of ultimate love and fulfillment of prophecy. In your quiet time, consider the significance of Jesus’ words to His mother and the beloved disciple, revealing His care for those He loved even in His final moments.

Reflection Question:

How does understanding the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross challenge you to love and care for others in your life, even when it’s difficult?

Day 2: The Burial – John 19:28-42

Devotional:

In today’s passage, we encounter the burial of Jesus. This act was one of respect and love carried out by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. As you read, take a moment to consider the humility and bravery of these individuals who cared for Jesus’ body. Reflect on the significance of Jesus’ burial as it sets the stage for the resurrection.

Reflection Question:

What does the careful and loving burial of Jesus by Joseph and Nicodemus teach you about honoring God and standing firm in your faith amidst potential opposition?

Day 3: The Resurrection – John 20:1-18

Devotional:

The darkness of the tomb could not hold back the light of the world. Today, we celebrate the empty tomb and the resurrection of Jesus. Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Christ transformed her grief into joy. As you meditate on this passage, let the reality of the resurrection ignite hope in your heart. Embrace the new life that is promised to you through Christ’s victory over death.

Reflection Question:

How does the resurrection of Jesus give you hope and strength in areas of your life where you need renewal and transformation?

Day 4: Doubt and Faith – John 20:24-29

Devotional:

Thomas’ doubt is a part of many believers’ journeys. His desire to see and touch the wounds of Jesus was met with compassion, not condemnation. Today, as you read about Thomas’ encounter with the risen Lord, ask God to strengthen your faith in the unseen. Trust in the promises of Jesus and the reality of His resurrection, even when doubts arise.

Reflection Question:

How can you follow Jesus’ encouragement to believe without seeing, and how might that faith manifest in your daily walk with Christ?

Day 5: New Creation – 2 Corinthians 5:17

Devotional:

As we conclude our journey through the transformative events of the crucifixion and resurrection, we land on the promise of becoming a new creation in Christ. The old has gone, the new has come. Today, meditate on what it means to live as a new creation. Embrace the changes God is making in you and through you, and walk forward in the resurrection power that is at work within every believer.

Reflection Question:

In what practical ways can you live out your identity as a new creation in Christ, and how does this change your perspective on life’s challenges and opportunities?

End of Bible Reading Plan and Devotional

As we delve into the life of King Hezekiah, we discover timeless truths about faith and resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity. This week, we explore the spiritual fortitude of Hezekiah, who, despite the division of the kingdom and the threat of Assyrian invasion, demonstrated an unshakeable faith in God. We witness his strong leadership during the psychological warfare and the siege of Jerusalem, where he faced taunts from the Assyrian commander designed to instill fear and doubt among the people of Judah. Here are some key takeaways from the sermon:

• King Hezekiah’s steadfast faith in God set him apart from other leaders, demonstrating the power of trust and obedience to the Lord, even amidst political upheaval and military threat.
• The psychological warfare tactics used by the Assyrians to intimidate and sow doubt among the people of Judah mirror the spiritual battles we face today. Our response, like Hezekiah’s, should be humility and seeking God’s guidance.
• Despite the reports and diagnoses we may face in life, no matter what the enemy says, or even what we have told ourselves, we are reminded that our ultimate source of truth and comfort comes from our faith in God.
• The story of Hezekiah teaches us about the divine intervention and the might of God’s power, which can overcome even the most formidable enemies, as an angel of the Lord demonstrated by decimating an army in one night.
• Our true strength comes not from ourselves but from Christ within us. In good times, it is easy to rely on our own abilities, but in times of trouble, we must remember to lay our concerns before the Lord.
• An invitation to trust: regardless of the challenges we face, we are called to spread our worries before God and trust in His divine guidance.

It’s time to embrace trust in the Lord’s guidance to navigate life’s storms, learning from King Hezekiah’s unwavering belief in the face of great adversity. As we move through our week, let’s carry these lessons with us, renewing our commitment to trust in God and to face life’s challenges with the courage and faith exemplified by King Hezekiah.

Five-Day Bible Reading Plan and Devotional: Trusting God’s Power Through Life’s Sieges

Day 1: The Faith of King Hezekiah
Reading: 2 Kings 18:1-7

Devotional:

As we delve into the history of King Hezekiah, we see a man whose trust in the Lord set him apart. In a time of division and uncertainty, his steadfast faith and obedience to God’s commands brought success and divine favor. Reflect on your own life—how can you follow Hezekiah’s example and hold fast to the Lord amidst the trials you face?

Reflection Question:

In what ways can you demonstrate unwavering adherence to God’s guidance in your life today?

Day 2: Standing Firm Against Taunts

Reading: 2 Kings 18:28-35

Devotional:

Imagine the people of Jerusalem hearing the Assyrian commander’s threats. Today, we face similar psychological warfare that aims to undermine our faith. Consider the spiritual battles you encounter and how you can resist the enemy’s taunts by staying rooted in the truth of God’s Word.

Reflection Question:

What taunts from the enemy do you need to confront with God’s truth in your life?

Day 3: Seeking Divine Support in Crisis

Reading: 2 Kings 19:1-5

Devotional:

King Hezekiah’s response to the siege was to seek the Lord in humility. When you hear distressing news or face daunting challenges, do you turn to God or rely on your own understanding? Let’s follow Hezekiah’s example and bring our concerns before God, seeking His intervention.

Reflection Question:

How can you demonstrate a humble and prayerful heart in response to the challenges you face?

Day 4: The Power of Prophecy and Prayer
Reading: 2 Kings 19:15-19

Devotional:

In today’s passage, Hezekiah lays out the enemy’s threats before God in prayer, recognizing the battle is not against him, but against the Almighty. As we navigate life’s sieges, we are reminded of the power of prayer and the significance of bringing our fears and anxieties to God. Reflect on how you can entrust your struggles to God and seek His deliverance.

Reflection Question:

What situation in your life do you need to spread before the Lord in prayer, trusting Him for deliverance?

Day 5: Celebrating Divine Deliverance

Reading: 2 Kings 19:35-37

Devotional:

The Lord answered Hezekiah’s prayer in a miraculous way, delivering Jerusalem from the Assyrian threat. As you witness God’s deliverance in your own life, take time to celebrate His faithfulness and share your testimony with others. May this strengthen your faith and the faith of those around you.

Reflection Question:

How have you experienced God’s deliverance in your life, and how can you use your testimony to encourage others?

Throughout this week, as you reflect on the Sermon of King Hezekiah and his unshakeable trust in God, may you be inspired to trust more deeply in the divine power that is at work within you. May your heart be drawn closer to the Lord as you read His Word and may you find the strength to face life’s sieges with a spirit of faith and resilience.