We started this sermon series last week and we continue on the signs of the end of the age. Some people are fascinated to study prophecy and others are afraid of it. Well, frankly it’s quite scary stuff.
I used to want to figure just when the end will come, but after studying Revelation for the third time, I have finally had my fill. No matter how much we study, no one will figure out when Jesus will return. Only the Father knows. When He wants us to know it will be revealed, not a moment before.
Our world today is similar to Jesus’ day. Wickedness about dis in every corner of the world. Hearts become cold, hard. It’s not at all the world God created for us. Sin entered the world and changed everything.
When the end does come, it will be horrendous! Those who’ve chosen God will be spared. But it will be a different end for those who’ve turned their backs on Him.
“Here is the world. Beautiful and terrible things will happen. Don’t be afraid.”
Frederick Buechner
Spiritual vigilance is needed since the time of Jesus’ return is not known except to the Father. This is what Jesus tells the disciple in the Oliver discourse found in Matthew 24:33-44.
As believers of the gospel, we must be always ready for the Son’s return. No one knows except the Father.
We learn who God is from scripture, God’s hand on our lives and through our friends and mentors. We see his beauty and heart in the sunsets he paints for us and even in the passing of loved ones.
Jesus grew in wisdom through out his life. He taught the scholars in the temple as a young boy, but he studied the scriptures and preached on them. He prayed to God and built a relationship with. Him just like we should be doing.
But, even jesus didn’t know when the end would come.
”My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Did Jesus not know what the plan was all along? It’s a possibility, for sure. By the time Jesus is resurrected it seems that he’s in the loop.
So, what do we do with this? We be diligent. Be aware.
There will be a division when Jesus returns between the people. It’s the Judgment that divides.
Those who choose to live without God will be granted their wish. They will live in eternity without the love of Christ.
I can’t imagine a worse punishment! My hope comes in knowing that God is eternal. Jesus gave his life as a sacrifice to cover all sins of all time.
Live out the love of Christ.
When God comes, we’ll recognize his voice and he’ll receive us.
God comes back for his own, Jesus is how we recognize that God comes to us. He comes in our pains, doubts, celebrations, and in our final good byes.
In the mean time, live your life as the way God wants you to live it.
- Help those who need help
- Love everyone – even your enemies
- Those who have plenty should help those who don’t
- Spend time with God so you can learn who he is
- Share your faith with others 0 not that you are better then them, but because you love them and want them to have the same joy you have
- Let them see God through the way. You live your life.
In Faith,
Pam
Where God Leads 