Episode Handout
Scripture(s):
Acts 1:7-8, Luke 10:20, Matthew 24:36, Matthew 28:19
Date:
10/12/2025
Main Points
1. Recurring Predictions of Christ’s Return
- The episode opens with Will and Marie discussing the frequent attempts by individuals and groups to predict the exact date of Jesus’ return.
- They reference a recent example involving a South African pastor who predicted the Lord’s return on a specific date, leading followers to sell possessions and wait in church sanctuaries.
- The hosts express concern and bafflement at both the leaders making such claims and the followers who act on them.
2. Scriptural Warnings Against Date-Setting
- Marie points out the clear biblical teaching that no one knows the day or hour of Christ’s return, referencing Matthew 24:36.
- They discuss how it is troubling that people can be convinced to ignore such clear scripture in favor of a charismatic leader’s claims.
3. The Importance of Knowing the Written Word
- The hosts stress that the antidote to deception is being “locked into the written word of God.”
- They lament that many are led astray because they do not study the Bible for themselves or understand its teachings.
4. Historical Context of Failed Predictions
- Will recalls previous failed predictions, such as “88 Reasons Jesus is Coming Back in 1988,” the 2011 and 2012 end-of-the-world predictions, and the “blood moon” prophecies.
- They note that these cycles of failed predictions are not new and have recurred throughout history.
5. The Call to Readiness, Not Speculation
- The hosts emphasize that the biblical call is not to speculate about dates but to “be ready at all times.”
- They reference Jesus’ teaching to “occupy till I come” and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19), highlighting that Christians are to be active in sharing the gospel and living faithfully, not withdrawing from life or shirking responsibilities.
6. Personal Application: Readiness of Heart
- Will and Marie discuss the importance of personal spiritual readiness—examining one’s heart, forgiving others, and living in a state of confession and prayer.
- They contrast outward signs (like watching the sky) with inward readiness (being right with God and others).
7. The Promise of Christ’s Return and Resurrection
- The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of the certainty of Christ’s return and the resurrection, referencing 1 Thessalonians 4 and 1 Corinthians 15.
- They clarify that while the word “rapture” is not in the Bible, the concept of being “caught up” is scriptural.
- The resurrection is central to Christian hope; if Christ is not raised, faith is in vain.
8. Final Exhortation and Prayer
- The hosts pray for readiness, evangelistic zeal, and a life that honors Christ while awaiting His return.
- They encourage listeners to live in a state of “maranatha”—longing for and welcoming the Lord’s coming, but also busy with the work of the kingdom.
Scriptures Referenced
| Reference | Context in Podcast |
|---|---|
| Matthew 24:36 | “No one knows the day or hour…”—used to refute date-setting for Christ’s return. |
| Acts 1:7-8 | “It is not for you to know the times or epochs…”—emphasizes God’s authority over timing. |
| Luke 10:20 | “Rejoice that your names are written in heaven…”—focus on spiritual readiness, not exploits. |
| Matthew 28:19 | The Great Commission—reminder to be active in making disciples, not passive or withdrawn. |
| 1 Thessalonians 4 | The “caught up” passage—assurance of Christ’s return and the resurrection. |
| 1 Corinthians 15 | The resurrection chapter—centrality of Christ’s resurrection to Christian faith and hope. |
| 2 Thessalonians 3:10 | “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat”—used to discourage idleness while waiting. |
Overall Message
The episode is a strong warning against the dangers of following those who claim to know the exact timing of Christ’s return. Will and Marie urge listeners to:
- Ground themselves in the clear teaching of Scripture, which repeatedly states that the timing of the Lord’s return is unknown and unknowable.
- Avoid being swept up in sensational predictions or abandoning daily responsibilities in anticipation of a specific date.
- Focus on personal spiritual readiness—living in a state of confession, forgiveness, and active faith.
- Engage in the ongoing work of the gospel, fulfilling the Great Commission, and living out the Christian life in the world.
- Hold fast to the hope of Christ’s return and the resurrection, but leave the timing in God’s hands.
The episode closes with a prayer for readiness, evangelistic fervor, and a life that honors Christ until He comes.