Preparing for the Savior's Second Coming

Mark 13; Luke 21:5–38

1. Review Mark 13:5, 9, 23, 33, 35, 37 and identify the words take heed and watch in each verse. List at least three things from this chapter that believers could watch for in order to be prepared to meet the Lord.

·         And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars,… (Mark 13:7)

·         For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows. (Mark 13:8)

·         And the gospel must first be published among all nations. (Mark 13:10)

·         Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. (Mark 13:12)

·         For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. (Mark 13:22)

·         But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light (Mark 13:24)

·         And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken. (Mark 13:25)

2. Explain in writing any other additional truths that are taught in the following references about how to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
• Doctrine and Covenants 87:8

“Wherefore stand he is holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come;” We need to be in the temple often, at church when we are supposed to be there. In our home with our families, teaching the gospel in our visits.

• Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:32

“And again shall the abominations of desolation” happen again. Which means That is, Jerusalem again will be under attack.  

• Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:37 

“…treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived…” We must study the scriptures, conference talk, Ensigns, Listen to church music, go to the Temple often so we can “treasure” Gods words.  

• Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:46–50

“Watch” for the Lord to come and don’t let “the thief” come in and “brake up” you house.

• Doctrine and Covenants 33:17

“…be faithful, praying always, having your lamps trimmed and burning.” We should be continually preparing ourselves for the Lord.

• Doctrine and Covenants 45:56–57

…they that are wise and received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide…shall abide the day.” We must always be adding oil to our lamps.