An Expository Study of Matthew 24:29–31
Preface
This workbook presents a clear, biblical framework for the return of Jesus Christ as taught in The Shocking Sign of the Son Himself. It is written for believers who desire to understand end-time prophecy from a literal, dispensational perspective: 1) The Rapture of the Church, 2) The Tribulation, 3) The Second Coming, and 4) The Millennial Kingdom.
Section 1 — The Prophetic Context
Scripture Reading (ESV)
Matthew 24:1–3; Daniel 9:24–27
Teaching Notes
The Olivet Discourse addresses Israel and the nations, not the Church. Between the 69th and 70th weeks of Daniel lies the Church Age.
“Jesus answered the disciples’ question not about the destruction of Jerusalem alone but about His future, visible return to establish His kingdom.” — MacArthur
Pause and Reflect
How does Daniel 9 confirm God’s covenant faithfulness to Israel?
Section 2 — The Tribulation: The Time of Jacob’s Trouble
Scripture Reading (ESV)
Jeremiah 30:7; Revelation 6–18
Teaching Notes
The Antichrist confirms a covenant (Dan 9:27) beginning the seven-year Tribulation. It judges unbelievers and purifies Israel.
“The Tribulation is God’s furnace to refine His chosen nation and reveal her Messiah.” — MacArthur
Pause and Reflect
What does the preservation of the Jewish remnant teach about God’s mercy?
Section 3 — Cosmic Disturbances and Divine Intervention
Scripture Reading (ESV)
Matthew 24:29; Joel 2:30–31; Isaiah 13:9–13
Teaching Notes
Literal upheavals in creation signal the end of human rule. Darkness sets the stage for the radiant unveiling of Christ’s glory.
“The darkened heavens become His canvas; on it the brilliance of the Son of Man is painted for all creation to see.” — MacArthur
Pause and Reflect
Why do cosmic signs accompany major redemptive acts in Scripture?
Section 4 — The Sign of the Son Himself
Scripture Reading (ESV)
Matthew 24:30; Daniel 7:13–14; Revelation 1:7
Teaching Notes
The sign is the Son Himself. His Shekinah glory fills the heavens; every eye beholds Him. Contrast: Rapture unseen, Second Coming visible.
“No symbol, no cross of light, no celestial banner—the sign is Christ in His unveiled deity.” — MacArthur
Pause and Reflect
What emotions will His appearing evoke among believers and unbelievers?
Section 5 — The Mourning of the Nations
Scripture Reading (ESV)
Zechariah 12:10–11; Revelation 6:15–17; Matthew 24:30
Teaching Notes
Israel’s repentance fulfills Zechariah 12 and Romans 11. The nations mourn in terror as judgment descends.
“The same Jesus they pierced now pierces their hearts—some unto repentance, others unto ruin.” — MacArthur
Pause and Reflect
How does the contrast between Israel’s mourning and the nations’ terror reveal God’s justice and mercy?
Section 6 — The Gathering of the Elect
Scripture Reading (ESV)
Matthew 24:31; Isaiah 11:11–12; Deuteronomy 30:3–6
Teaching Notes
Angels gather the believing remnant of Israel and surviving Gentiles who trusted Christ. This regathering fulfills God’s covenant promise.
“When the trumpet sounds this time, it is not resurrection—it is restoration.” — MacArthur
Pause and Reflect
What does this event demonstrate about God’s faithfulness to His covenants?
Section 7 — The Battle of Armageddon and the Second Coming in Glory
Scripture Reading (ESV)
Revelation 19:11–21; 2 Thessalonians 1:7–10; Zechariah 14:3–4
Teaching Notes
Christ returns riding a white horse; His word strikes down the nations. The beast and false prophet are cast alive into the lake of fire.
“When heaven opens this time, it is not for revelation—it is for retribution.” — MacArthur
Pause and Reflect
What distinguishes Christ’s warfare at Armageddon from all human wars?
Section 8 — The Millennial Kingdom and the Eternal State
Scripture Reading (ESV)
Revelation 20:1–6; Isaiah 2:1–4; Revelation 21–22
Teaching Notes
Christ reigns literally on earth from Jerusalem. Peace, justice, and righteousness prevail. After the Millennium, Satan’s brief rebellion ends in final judgment.
“The curse ends where it began; paradise is restored beneath the rule of the perfect King.” — MacArthur
Pause and Reflect
How does the literal Millennium vindicate God’s promises to Abraham and David?
