The purpose of this Sermon Library is to support your spiritual growth as you revisit, reflect and meditate on the sermon topic, and study the Scriptures.

In each tab of the Study Guide, you will find information that will help you increase your understanding and knowledge of Yahweh’s Word and gain deeper insight into the Biblical topic covered.

You can engage in this study on your own or with a group.

It is our hope that these tools provide you with meaningful activities to help you on your walk, as you engage in them during the week and in days leading up to a Feast.

2 Timothy 2:15 – Study to shew thyself approved unto Elohim, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Study Guide
Summary – Read and reread to help you remember the answer to the question, “What was this sermon about?” so that you can deepen your understanding on this topic and can learn what to say in order to easily share this with others.

Points and Scriptures – Compare these to your notes. If needed, add the key points and Scriptures to your notes, for further review. Turn to each Scripture passage and read it. You may want to keep a notebook or journal, with Scripture Lists by topic. Scriptures that say (alluded to) next to it were included in content of the message (ex. appeared on a slide) without the Scripture itself being read.

Discussion Questions – Read one at a time, writing the answers down in your notebook or journal. Use your notes, as well as the information in the Points & Scriptures tab, to help you answer the questions.

Small Group Guide – We recommend that you engage in this activity during the week with a group of brethren, family members and/or friends.

Devotional – We recommend that you engage in these activities during the week and/or in days leading up to the Feast.

Sermon Summary: This sermon challenges the popular “rapture” theory and argues that believers will remain on Earth during the end times tribulation. The speaker emphasizes that the righteous will inherit the Earth while the wicked will be removed. He explores various biblical passages that describe a purifying fire at the end of the age, urging believers to be spiritually prepared and to abide in Messiah to withstand this tribulation.

Key Points:

• The rapture theory is not biblically supported; instead, the wicked will be removed from the Earth
• Believers will remain on Earth during tribulation, possibly protected but still experiencing challenges
• The Earth is our inheritance from Elohim, not a temporary dwelling to be abandoned
• There will be a purifying fire at the end of the age that will test believers
• Spiritual preparedness is crucial for withstanding the coming tribulation
• Abiding in Messiah is necessary to be like a “green tree” that can withstand the fire
• Believers should stay spiritually awake and not be distracted by worldly comforts

Here’s a list of the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon:

1. Mark 13 (mentioned multiple times, specific verses not always given)
2. Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 (Parable of the Wheat and Tares)
3. Proverbs 2:20-22
4. Psalm 37 (entire chapter discussed)
5. Matthew 5:5
6. Psalm 52:1-9
7. Luke 23:28-31
8. Isaiah 6:1-13
9. Isaiah 9:18-19
10. Isaiah 10:16-22
11. Mark 9:42-50
12. Malachi 3:1-2
13. Matthew 3:1-12
14. Matthew 5:22
15. Matthew 7:19
16. Matthew 25:41
17. Luke 12:49
18. 1 Corinthians 3:11-15
19. 2 Peter 3:7-13
20. Jude 1:20-23
21. Revelation 8:1-11
22. Mark 13:24-27, 32-37
23. Ezekiel 19:10-14
24. John 15:4-8
25. Isaiah 26:19-21

Themes discussed without specific references but relevant to the sermon:

1. End times and tribulation (Relevant verses: Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21)
2. Judgment and refining fire (Relevant verses: Malachi 3:2-3, Zechariah 13:9, 1 Peter 1:7)
3. Inheritance of the earth by the righteous (Relevant verses: Matthew 5:5, Psalm 37:11)
4. Abiding in Messiah (Relevant verses: John 15:1-11, 1 John 2:28)
5. Watchfulness and preparedness for Messiah’s return (Relevant verses: Matthew 24:42-44, Luke 12:35-40)

How does the parable of the wheat and tares challenge common beliefs about the end times, and what implications does this have for how we live our lives today?

In what ways might the concept of inheriting the earth, rather than leaving it, change our perspective on environmental stewardship and our relationship with creation?

How can we practically prepare ourselves to be ‘green wood’ that withstands the fires of tribulation, as described in the sermon?

What are the potential dangers of building our faith on ‘wood, hay, and straw’ versus ‘gold, silver, and precious stones,’ and how can we discern between the two in our spiritual lives?

How might the idea of being ‘seasoned with fire’ shape our understanding of personal trials and spiritual growth?

In what ways does the sermon’s interpretation of end-time events challenge or affirm your current beliefs, and how does this impact your faith?

How can we balance the call to ‘watch’ for Messiah’s return with the need to live fully in the present moment?

What does it mean to truly ‘abide in Messiah as described in John 15, and how can we cultivate this connection in our daily lives?

How might our approach to technology and modern life change if we take seriously the call to be awake and attentive to the signs of the times?

In light of the sermon’s teachings, how can we foster a sense of hope and purpose while also preparing for potential tribulation and challenges ahead?

Here’s a small group guide based on the sermon:

Small Group Guide: Preparing for Tribulation, Not Rapture

Opening Prayer

Key Takeaways:
1. The sermon challenges the concept of a pre-tribulation rapture, arguing that believers will remain on earth during end-time events.
2. Scripture emphasizes that the righteous will inherit the earth, while the wicked will be removed.
3. Believers must prepare themselves spiritually to endure tribulation, likened to being “green wood” that withstands fire.
4. Our foundation should be in Yahshua Messiah, building upon it with sound doctrine and righteous living.
5. Staying spiritually awake and alert is crucial as we await Messiah’s return.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does the idea that believers will remain on earth during tribulation, rather than being raptured, change your perspective on end-time events?

2. The sermon emphasizes that the righteous will inherit the earth. How might this impact our view of environmental stewardship and our relationship with creation?

3. Discuss the concept of being “green wood” that can withstand the fires of tribulation. What practical steps can we take to strengthen our faith and become more resilient?

4. The speaker mentions that our spiritual foundation should be built with “gold, silver, and precious stones” rather than “wood, hay, and straw.” What do you think these materials represent in our spiritual lives?

5. How can we cultivate spiritual alertness in our daily lives, as emphasized in Mark 13:33-37?

6. The sermon suggests that modern technology can distract us from being spiritually awake. Do you agree? How can we use technology wisely without becoming spiritually dull?

Practical Applications:

1. Commit to a daily Scripture reading plan to build your spiritual foundation.

2. Practice being more aware of nature and Yahweh’s creation around you as a way to stay spiritually alert.

3. Evaluate your life for areas of “wood, hay, and straw” that might not withstand testing. Make a plan to replace these with stronger spiritual practices.

4. Set aside time for prayer during unconventional hours (like the night watches mentioned in the sermon) to cultivate spiritual alertness.

5. Choose one way to be a better steward of the earth this week, recognizing it as our inheritance.

Closing Prayer

Encourage group members to continue reflecting on these themes throughout the week and to support one another in their spiritual growth.

Here’s a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the sermon:

Day 1: Enduring Through Tribulation
Reading: Psalm 37:1-11
Devotional: As we face uncertain times and hear of troubles around the world, it’s easy to become anxious or fearful. However, Psalm 37 reminds us to trust in Yahweh and continue doing good, even when evil seems to prosper. The psalm encourages us to “dwell in the land and feed on His faithfulness.” This beautiful imagery invites us to remain rooted in Yahweh’s promises and nourished by His unchanging character. Today, reflect on areas where you may be tempted to fret or worry. Instead, choose to delight yourself in Yahweh, committing your way to Him. Remember that as you abide in Elohim’s presence, He will bring forth your righteousness and justice in His perfect timing.

Day 2: Bearing Good Fruit
Reading: John 15:1-8
Devotional: Yahshua uses the metaphor of a vine and branches to illustrate our need to remain connected to Him. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own, we cannot produce spiritual fruit apart from Messiah. This passage challenges us to examine our connection to Yahshua. Are we abiding in Him daily through prayer, Scripture reading, and obedience? Or are we trying to produce fruit through our own efforts? Take time today to evaluate any areas where you may have become disconnected from the true vine. Ask that the Holy Spirit to help you remain firmly grafted into Messiah, allowing His life-giving power to flow through you and produce lasting fruit.

Day 3: Preparing for Messiah’s Return
Reading: Mark 13:32-37
Devotional: Messiah’s words about His return remind us of the importance of spiritual vigilance. While we cannot know the exact day or hour of His coming, we are called to watch and be ready. This readiness isn’t about fearful anticipation, but rather active engagement in the work of Elohim’s kingdom. Consider how you can cultivate a spirit of watchfulness in your daily life. Are there distractions or complacencies that have lulled you into spiritual slumber? Commit to staying alert through regular prayer, Bible study, and service to others. Remember, our ultimate hope is not in predicting the future, but in faithfully following Messiah in the present.

Day 4: Refined by Fire
Reading: 1 Peter 1:6-9
Devotional: Peter’s words offer comfort and perspective to believers facing trials. He reminds us that our faith, more precious than gold, is refined through difficulties. Just as fire purifies gold, the challenges we face can strengthen and purify our faith. Reflect on a current struggle in your life. How might Elohim be using this situation to refine your character or deepen your trust in Him? While we may not always understand the purpose of our trials, we can take heart knowing that Yahweh is at work, producing in us a faith that will result in “praise, glory, and honor when Yahshua Messiah is revealed.” Today, ask Elohim for the strength to endure, and the wisdom to see your challenges through His eternal perspective.

Day 5: Hope in the New Creation
Reading: Revelation 21:1-7
Devotional: The book of Revelation offers us a glimpse of the glorious future that awaits Yahweh’s people. This passage paints a beautiful picture of a renewed creation where Yahweh dwells with His people, wiping away every tear and making all things new. As we navigate the challenges and uncertainties of this present world, we can anchor our hope in this promised future. Today, meditate on the specific promises in this passage. How does the assurance of Yahweh’s eternal presence and the elimination of all sorrow, pain, and death encourage you? Let this vision of the new creation inspire you to persevere in faith, knowing that our present sufferings cannot compare to the glory that will be revealed in us.