Lesson 21: “What Is the Sign of Thy Coming?”

Purpose

To help recognize the signs that will precede the Savior’s Second Coming and to encourage members to prepare themselves for this great event.

Preparation

1. 1.

   Read, ponder, and pray about the following scriptures:

   1. a.

      Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:1–20 (Matthew 24:1–5, 9–13, 15–22). Jesus foretells the impending destruction of Jerusalem.

   2. b.

      Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:21–55 (Matthew 24:6–8, 14, 23–51). Jesus describes the signs that will precede his Second Coming and teaches how his elect can prepare for his coming.

2. 2.

   Additional reading: Mark 13; Luke 21:5–38; Doctrine and Covenants 45:15–55.

Elder M. Russell Ballard gave the following counsel of hope and encouragement: “Although the prophecies tell us that these things are to take place, more and more people are expressing great alarm at what appears to be an acceleration of worldwide calamity. … Admittedly we have ample reason to be deeply concerned because we see no immediate answers to the seemingly unsolvable problems confronting the human family. But regardless of this dark picture, which will ultimately get worse, we must never allow ourselves to give up hope! …

“… The Lord is in control. He knows the end from the beginning. He has given us adequate instruction that, if followed, will see us safely through any crisis. His purposes will be fulfilled, and someday we will understand the eternal reasons for all of these events. Therefore, today we must be careful not to overreact, nor should we be caught up in extreme preparations; but what we must do is keep the commandments of God and never lose hope!

“But where do we find hope in the midst of such turmoil and catastrophe? Quite simply, our one hope for spiritual safety during these turbulent times is to turn our minds and our hearts to Jesus Christ. … Armed with the shield of faith, we can overcome many of our daily challenges and overpower our greatest weaknesses and fears, knowing that if we do our best to keep the commandments of God, come what may, we will be all right” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1992, 41–43; or Ensign, Nov. 1992, 31–32).

"Lesson 21: “What Is the Sign of Thy Coming?”," New Testament Class Member Study Guide, (1997)

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Joseph Smith—Matthew (Matthew 24)

• •

  What sign of the Savior’s Second Coming is described in Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:22? What evidence do you see that this prophecy is being fulfilled? How can we avoid being deceived by false prophets? (See Matthew 7:15–20; D&C 45:57; 46:7–8.)

• •

  The Lord taught that we should “be not troubled” by wars and rumors of war (Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:23). How can we find peace during such troubled times? (See 1 John 4:16–18; D&C 6:34–36; 45:34–35;59:23.)

• •

  The Lord told his followers in Jerusalem to “stand in the holy place” (Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:12), and he has given similar counsel in our day (D&C 87:8; 101:22). What are some holy places in which we should stand?

Suggestion for Family Discussion

Discuss some of the signs that precede the Second Coming, as outlined in the scripture chain in this section. Hand out recent newspapers and Church magazines. Have family members work individually or in pairs to look in the newspapers and magazines for signs of the Second Coming. As they share what they have found, discuss how to prepare for the Second Coming.

Scripture Chain: Signs of the Second Coming

Isaiah 2:2–3

Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:21–37

Daniel 2:44

D&C 45:16–35

The BYU scripture discussions are a great way to prepare for class and get more insights into the topics we are studying. For this week check out Episode 26: The Olivet Discourse.