Signs of the End Times Part 5: A Sermon by Pastor Andrew Thurber of Passionate Life Church, Littleton, CO

As part of Passionate Life Church’s deep dive into eschatological teachings, Pastor Andrew Thurber continues the impactful “Signs of the End Times” series with Part 5—though technically the sixth installment—focused on Jesus' teachings in Matthew 24. Delivered to the congregation in Littleton, CO, this sermon carries both a prophetic urgency and a pastoral call to spiritual preparedness. Rooted entirely in scripture, Pastor Andrew’s message stands firm in biblical theology, guiding believers through the warning signs and divine signals leading up to the return of Christ.
In a world saturated with confusion, distraction, and diluted theology, Passionate Life Church offers clarity by returning to the words of Jesus. Pastor Andrew speaks with unwavering conviction, expositing the text verse by verse, while anchoring listeners in the truth of God’s Word.
Understanding the Tribulation and Jesus’ Prophetic Clarity
The heart of Pastor Andrew’s message in this sermon is based on Matthew 24:15–51. According to him, Jesus gives believers clear signs to look for—not to incite fear, but to foster spiritual awareness and readiness. Pastor Andrew states:
“We’ve been talking about the signs Jesus gives—specific signs in the earth and in culture to look for to know when the end times are upon us.”
The message begins with a clear distinction between the rapture of the Church (also known by the Greek term harpazo) and the Second Coming of Christ. Pastor Andrew teaches that the rapture will occur before the seven-year tribulation, and it is only after this divine event that the Antichrist can come to power. This timeline reflects a pre-tribulational view, emphasizing the removal of the Church before chaos unfolds.
“The Antichrist cannot come to power when the Church is still here… that’s why the rapture has to happen first.”
During the tribulation, Jesus outlines a time of unprecedented suffering—a period so severe, Scripture says it must be cut short for the sake of the elect (Matthew 24:22). Pastor Andrew notes that these “elect” are not the Church, which has already been taken up, but rather the Jews and others who come to faith during the tribulation.
This period will be marked by deception, false messiahs, false prophets, and miraculous signs intended to lead people astray. The implication is clear: without the Holy Spirit to guide them, the people left behind will lack discernment and spiritual awareness.
Jesus' Return and the Gathering of His Saints
A major focal point in this sermon is the vivid imagery of Jesus’ return. Pastor Andrew unpacks Matthew 24:29–31, emphasizing that immediately after the tribulation, cosmic events will signal the Son of Man’s appearance.
“Jesus is going to be in heaven riding on a horse with his saints, being called up and returning to earth.”
This event, distinct from the rapture, is Christ’s triumphant return to judge the earth and establish His reign. The gathering of the elect, in this context, refers to those who accepted Christ during the tribulation—primarily Jews and Gentiles who were not part of the Church prior to the rapture.
Pastor Andrew warns against false teachers who claim to know the day or hour of Christ’s return. He emphasizes that such claims are deceptive and contradict Jesus’ own words that only the Father knows the timing.
“If someone tells you they know the date of Jesus’ return, one—they’re a false prophet. Two—Jesus isn’t coming that day.”
This is a critical distinction meant to guard believers from sensationalism and ensure they focus instead on preparedness and holy living.
Israel, the Fig Tree, and the Prophetic Timeline
One of the most compelling sections of Pastor Andrew’s message centers around the parable of the fig tree (Matthew 24:32–35). He explains that the fig tree represents Israel—a nation reborn in 1948 after nearly 2,000 years of occupation. This, according to Pastor Andrew, marked the beginning of the prophetic end-times clock.
“The clock started in 1948 when Israel became a nation again. This generation—starting then—will not pass away until all these things take place.”
Citing Psalm 90:10, he notes that a biblical generation is typically 70 to 80 years, placing a potential end-date between 2018 and 2028, though he also mentions other interpretations that suggest up to 120 years. Regardless of the exact timing, the message is consistent: the return of Christ is near.
This perspective reinforces the need for vigilance. While we cannot know the exact day or hour, Jesus has given us signs to help us discern the season. And according to Pastor Andrew, we are in it.
The Days of Noah and the Rise of Rebellion
Drawing a powerful parallel to the days of Noah, Pastor Andrew explores how humanity’s condition today mirrors that of Genesis 6. Rebellion, lawlessness, and disregard for divine instruction define modern society—just as they did before the flood.
“Noah preached for 100 years, and nobody got saved except his family. That’s where culture is heading.”
Even more thought-provoking is Pastor Andrew’s explanation of the Nephilim—hybrid beings created when fallen angels procreated with human women. He asserts that Satan’s goal was to corrupt the human bloodline, making it impossible for Jesus to be born. Pastor Andrew draws a parallel to transhumanism today, suggesting that hybridization with technology (such as Neuralink) may be part of a modern deception.
“Eventually, everyone that is left on earth is going to become part robot… people will declare themselves their own god.”
This sobering perspective serves as a warning of the potential consequences of unchecked technological evolution and spiritual apathy. The world is heading toward a state of deception, rebellion, and chaos—one that will be governed by the Antichrist unless people turn to Christ now.
The Call to Be Spiritually Awake and Prepared
Pastor Andrew’s sermon concludes with a passionate exhortation to stay awake, echoing Jesus’ command in Matthew 24:42. He warns against spiritual apathy, particularly in areas like Littleton and the broader Denver metro, where he identifies a spiritual stronghold of confusion and indifference.
“There’s a rise here in the Denver area of people identifying as ‘nones’—those who believe in nothing. My prayer is: God, awaken your people.”
He challenges believers to be faithful stewards—of their time, talent, and treasure—and to live with a sense of urgency. Every aspect of life, from marriage to ministry to finances, should reflect a commitment to God’s kingdom, not personal comfort or the so-called American Dream.
“Jesus doesn’t care about the house you live in or the car you drive. He cares about whether you live to build His kingdom.”
The sermon ends with a response time, offering a space for people to surrender at the cross, seek God at the altar, or receive prayer for healing and breakthrough. Pastor Andrew reminds the congregation that salvation is not about playing church but about wholehearted surrender to Christ.
“Only you can decide how you’re going to live today… because now is the moment that we have the opportunity to be the light of the world.”
Your Invitation from Passionate Life Church
If you’re in the Littleton, CO area and seeking a church community grounded in the Word, Passionate Life Church invites you to be part of what God is doing. Whether you’re wrestling with life’s biggest questions, searching for deeper truth, or desiring a genuine relationship with Jesus, you’re welcome here.
Come experience a Spirit-led church that isn’t afraid to preach the truth. Learn, grow, and stand firm in faith during these uncertain times. Explore opportunities like life groups, submitting a prayer request, or taking your next steps in faith.
In a world saturated with confusion, distraction, and diluted theology, Passionate Life Church offers clarity by returning to the words of Jesus. Pastor Andrew speaks with unwavering conviction, expositing the text verse by verse, while anchoring listeners in the truth of God’s Word.
Understanding the Tribulation and Jesus’ Prophetic Clarity
The heart of Pastor Andrew’s message in this sermon is based on Matthew 24:15–51. According to him, Jesus gives believers clear signs to look for—not to incite fear, but to foster spiritual awareness and readiness. Pastor Andrew states:
“We’ve been talking about the signs Jesus gives—specific signs in the earth and in culture to look for to know when the end times are upon us.”
The message begins with a clear distinction between the rapture of the Church (also known by the Greek term harpazo) and the Second Coming of Christ. Pastor Andrew teaches that the rapture will occur before the seven-year tribulation, and it is only after this divine event that the Antichrist can come to power. This timeline reflects a pre-tribulational view, emphasizing the removal of the Church before chaos unfolds.
“The Antichrist cannot come to power when the Church is still here… that’s why the rapture has to happen first.”
During the tribulation, Jesus outlines a time of unprecedented suffering—a period so severe, Scripture says it must be cut short for the sake of the elect (Matthew 24:22). Pastor Andrew notes that these “elect” are not the Church, which has already been taken up, but rather the Jews and others who come to faith during the tribulation.
This period will be marked by deception, false messiahs, false prophets, and miraculous signs intended to lead people astray. The implication is clear: without the Holy Spirit to guide them, the people left behind will lack discernment and spiritual awareness.
Jesus' Return and the Gathering of His Saints
A major focal point in this sermon is the vivid imagery of Jesus’ return. Pastor Andrew unpacks Matthew 24:29–31, emphasizing that immediately after the tribulation, cosmic events will signal the Son of Man’s appearance.
“Jesus is going to be in heaven riding on a horse with his saints, being called up and returning to earth.”
This event, distinct from the rapture, is Christ’s triumphant return to judge the earth and establish His reign. The gathering of the elect, in this context, refers to those who accepted Christ during the tribulation—primarily Jews and Gentiles who were not part of the Church prior to the rapture.
Pastor Andrew warns against false teachers who claim to know the day or hour of Christ’s return. He emphasizes that such claims are deceptive and contradict Jesus’ own words that only the Father knows the timing.
“If someone tells you they know the date of Jesus’ return, one—they’re a false prophet. Two—Jesus isn’t coming that day.”
This is a critical distinction meant to guard believers from sensationalism and ensure they focus instead on preparedness and holy living.
Israel, the Fig Tree, and the Prophetic Timeline
One of the most compelling sections of Pastor Andrew’s message centers around the parable of the fig tree (Matthew 24:32–35). He explains that the fig tree represents Israel—a nation reborn in 1948 after nearly 2,000 years of occupation. This, according to Pastor Andrew, marked the beginning of the prophetic end-times clock.
“The clock started in 1948 when Israel became a nation again. This generation—starting then—will not pass away until all these things take place.”
Citing Psalm 90:10, he notes that a biblical generation is typically 70 to 80 years, placing a potential end-date between 2018 and 2028, though he also mentions other interpretations that suggest up to 120 years. Regardless of the exact timing, the message is consistent: the return of Christ is near.
This perspective reinforces the need for vigilance. While we cannot know the exact day or hour, Jesus has given us signs to help us discern the season. And according to Pastor Andrew, we are in it.
The Days of Noah and the Rise of Rebellion
Drawing a powerful parallel to the days of Noah, Pastor Andrew explores how humanity’s condition today mirrors that of Genesis 6. Rebellion, lawlessness, and disregard for divine instruction define modern society—just as they did before the flood.
“Noah preached for 100 years, and nobody got saved except his family. That’s where culture is heading.”
Even more thought-provoking is Pastor Andrew’s explanation of the Nephilim—hybrid beings created when fallen angels procreated with human women. He asserts that Satan’s goal was to corrupt the human bloodline, making it impossible for Jesus to be born. Pastor Andrew draws a parallel to transhumanism today, suggesting that hybridization with technology (such as Neuralink) may be part of a modern deception.
“Eventually, everyone that is left on earth is going to become part robot… people will declare themselves their own god.”
This sobering perspective serves as a warning of the potential consequences of unchecked technological evolution and spiritual apathy. The world is heading toward a state of deception, rebellion, and chaos—one that will be governed by the Antichrist unless people turn to Christ now.
The Call to Be Spiritually Awake and Prepared
Pastor Andrew’s sermon concludes with a passionate exhortation to stay awake, echoing Jesus’ command in Matthew 24:42. He warns against spiritual apathy, particularly in areas like Littleton and the broader Denver metro, where he identifies a spiritual stronghold of confusion and indifference.
“There’s a rise here in the Denver area of people identifying as ‘nones’—those who believe in nothing. My prayer is: God, awaken your people.”
He challenges believers to be faithful stewards—of their time, talent, and treasure—and to live with a sense of urgency. Every aspect of life, from marriage to ministry to finances, should reflect a commitment to God’s kingdom, not personal comfort or the so-called American Dream.
“Jesus doesn’t care about the house you live in or the car you drive. He cares about whether you live to build His kingdom.”
The sermon ends with a response time, offering a space for people to surrender at the cross, seek God at the altar, or receive prayer for healing and breakthrough. Pastor Andrew reminds the congregation that salvation is not about playing church but about wholehearted surrender to Christ.
“Only you can decide how you’re going to live today… because now is the moment that we have the opportunity to be the light of the world.”
Your Invitation from Passionate Life Church
If you’re in the Littleton, CO area and seeking a church community grounded in the Word, Passionate Life Church invites you to be part of what God is doing. Whether you’re wrestling with life’s biggest questions, searching for deeper truth, or desiring a genuine relationship with Jesus, you’re welcome here.
Come experience a Spirit-led church that isn’t afraid to preach the truth. Learn, grow, and stand firm in faith during these uncertain times. Explore opportunities like life groups, submitting a prayer request, or taking your next steps in faith.
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