Birth Pains – Matthew 24:1-14

Commentators have noted that the structure of Matthew's gospel includes 5 sermons bracketed by identical literary devices. In chapters 5-7, after His disciples approach Him, Jesus delivers His 1st discourse: “The Sermon on the Mount”. We have identified the working theme of “Kingdom Constitution” for this passage. Discourse #2 appears in chapter 10, theme: “Kingdom Commission”. #3 appears in chapter 13, theme: “Kingdom Comparisons”. #4 appears in chapter 18, theme: “Church of the Kingdom”. Today we begin our study of the 5th and final sermon themed: “Kingdom Consequences”. Each of these texts closes with the phrase: “When Jesus finished these sayings”. The messages themselves open and close (1st and 5th discourses) with Jesus seated on a mountain declaring His word. The first contains His authoritative law, the final discourse is His judgement sanctions for dismissing His authority.... Behold the King of Kings!