Are We Living in the End Times? Matthew 24, the Tribulation & Jesus’ Return Explained

Are wars, disasters, and growing unrest signs of the end times? What did Jesus mean by the tribulation, the abomination of desolation, and “this generation” in Matthew 24? Randy walks through Matthew 24:1–35, comparing Jesus’ words with Daniel and Luke’s Gospel. He shares why he understands much of the passage as a warning to the first disciples about Jerusalem’s destruction in AD 70, while also seeing meaning for believers today and looking forward to Jesus’ return. This message invites us to study Scripture carefully, approach disagreements with humility, and trust a God who is full of grace and justice. The recording opens with child dedications. The message introduction begins at 10:56. Scripture: Matthew 24:1–35; Daniel 11:31; Luke 21:20; 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 Speaker: Randy Kroening Series: Conversations with Jesus Clearwater Church Chapters 0:00 Welcome and child dedications 2:14 Commitments from parents and church 5:21 Dedication prayers 9:17 Church updates and serving opportunities 10:56 Matthew 24: Who is Jesus speaking to? 13:16 The temple and the disciples’ question 15:25 False messiahs, wars, and birth pains 18:59 Persecution, perseverance, and the gospel 23:04 What is the abomination of desolation? 25:53 Luke 21 and Jerusalem surrounded by armies 27:19 Fleeing Judea and the tribulation 30:14 False prophets and the coming of the Son of Man 31:50 Does this passage describe a pre-tribulation rapture? 33:23 Randy’s reading of Jerusalem’s destruction 35:11 The fig tree and “this generation” 38:39 Jesus’ words and our future hope 39:43 What this means for believers today 42:18 God’s invitation to come home 43:10 Response and closing prayer