Anticipating Christ's Return: A Call to Vigilance
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound anticipation of Christ's return, as depicted in Matthew 24. This chapter offers a vivid portrayal of the end times, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for Jesus' second coming. The narrative is not merely a chronological account but a bird's eye view of eschatological events, highlighting the signs, tribulations, and the ultimate return of Christ. We delved into the concept of the rapture, where believers will be taken up to meet Jesus, and the glorious appearing, where Christ will return with great power and glory. This discourse serves as a reminder of the urgency and responsibility we have to share the gospel, as the return of Christ will be unmistakable, like lightning flashing across the sky.
We also reflected on the challenges and distractions that can lead us astray, such as false prophets and deceptive teachings. Jesus warns us to remain vigilant and discerning, testing the spirits and focusing on the truth of His word. The current global situation, including the COVID-19 pandemic, serves as a reminder to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, rather than being consumed by fear or defiance. As we navigate these times, we are called to unite as a church, laying aside differences and seeking renewal and revival in our midst.
The message today is a call to action for both believers and those seeking faith. For those who have not yet accepted Christ, the invitation is open to become part of the elect, to embrace the salvation offered through Jesus. For believers, it is a time to reaffirm our readiness for His return, to live with expectation and purpose, and to actively participate in the mission of spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Key Takeaways:
- Anticipation of Christ's Return: The return of Jesus will be as clear as lightning across the sky, a moment of undeniable glory. This anticipation should drive us to live with purpose and urgency, sharing the gospel and preparing our hearts for His coming. [01:02:54]
- Vigilance Against Deception: Jesus warns of false prophets and messiahs who will attempt to lead even the elect astray. We must remain vigilant, testing the spirits and discerning truth from deception, keeping our focus on Christ and His teachings. [01:06:40]
- Unity and Renewal: In times of trial, such as the current pandemic, we are called to unite as a church, setting aside differences and seeking renewal. This is an opportunity to refocus on what truly matters—our relationship with God and our mission as His people. [01:11:09]
- The Role of the Church: The church is not a building but a body of believers called to proclaim the gospel. We must be ready to adapt and continue our mission, whether through digital means or physical gatherings, always prioritizing the spread of God's word. [01:17:08]
- Invitation to Salvation: For those who have not yet accepted Christ, the invitation is open to become part of the elect. This is a call to embrace the salvation offered through Jesus, to confess Him as Lord, and to live a life dedicated to His service. [01:31:36]
Youtube Chapters:
[0:00] - Welcome
[02:40] - Opening Prayer
[05:51] - Worship and Praise
[08:52] - Announcements
[11:48] - Gospel Obligation
[14:46] - Outdoor Worship Plans
[21:54] - Sharing the Gospel
[24:17] - Guidelines for Worship
[43:10] - Faithful Giving
[51:19] - Prayer for Unity
[52:06] - Call for Renewal
[53:18] - Prepared for Christ's Return
[57:40] - Understanding End Times
[01:02:54] - The Return of Christ
[01:31:36] - Invitation to Salvation
[01:38:11] - Closing Blessing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Matthew 24:23-31
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Observation Questions:
1. What are the signs mentioned in Matthew 24 that indicate the return of Christ? How does Jesus describe His return? [01:02:54]
2. According to the sermon, what are some of the challenges and distractions that can lead believers astray? [01:06:40]
3. How does the sermon describe the role of the church in the context of Christ's return? [01:17:08]
4. What is the significance of the imagery of lightning in describing the return of Christ? [01:02:54]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. Why does Jesus emphasize the need for vigilance against false prophets and messiahs? How can believers discern truth from deception? [01:06:40]
2. In what ways does the current global situation, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, serve as a reminder to keep our focus on Jesus? [01:11:09]
3. How does the anticipation of Christ's return influence the urgency and purpose of sharing the gospel? [01:17:08]
4. What does it mean to be part of the elect, and how does this relate to the invitation to salvation mentioned in the sermon? [01:31:36]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your own life. Are there any distractions or false teachings that have led you away from focusing on Christ? How can you address these distractions this week? [01:06:40]
2. How can you actively participate in the mission of spreading the gospel in your community, especially in light of the anticipation of Christ's return? [01:17:08]
3. In what ways can you contribute to the unity and renewal of your church community during challenging times? [01:11:09]
4. Consider the urgency of the invitation to salvation. Is there someone in your life who needs to hear about the hope and salvation offered through Jesus? How can you share this message with them? [01:31:36]
5. How can you prepare your heart and life for the return of Christ, living with expectation and purpose? What specific steps can you take this week to align your life with this anticipation? [01:02:54]
6. Reflect on the role of the church as described in the sermon. How can you support your church's mission to proclaim the gospel, whether through digital means or physical gatherings? [01:17:08]
7. What practical steps can you take to test the spirits and ensure that your beliefs and teachings align with the truth of God's word? [01:06:40]
Devotional
I'm ready to provide the 5-day devotional based on the steps outlined. Here it is:
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Day 1: Living with Purposeful Anticipation
The return of Christ is a central tenet of Christian faith, depicted vividly in Matthew 24. This event will be as unmistakable as lightning flashing across the sky, a moment of undeniable glory. Believers are called to live with a sense of urgency and purpose, preparing their hearts and sharing the gospel with others. This anticipation should not lead to fear but to a life of active faith, where every action is aligned with the expectation of Christ's return. The call is to be ready, to live each day as if it were the day of His coming, and to let this hope shape our priorities and actions. [01:02:54]
"For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, 'There is peace and security,' then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape." (1 Thessalonians 5:2-3, ESV)
Reflection: What specific steps can you take today to align your daily life with the anticipation of Christ's return, ensuring that your actions reflect your faith and hope in Him?
Day 2: Discernment in a World of Deception
In a world filled with false prophets and deceptive teachings, vigilance is crucial. Jesus warns that even the elect could be led astray if they are not discerning. This calls for a deep commitment to understanding and living by the truth of God's word. Believers must test the spirits, ensuring that their beliefs and actions are grounded in Scripture. This vigilance is not about suspicion but about a steadfast focus on Christ, allowing His teachings to guide and protect us from deception. [01:06:40]
"Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world." (1 John 4:1, ESV)
Reflection: Identify one area in your life where you might be susceptible to deception. How can you actively seek God's truth in this area and ensure that your beliefs align with His word?
Day 3: Unity and Renewal in Times of Trial
The current global situation, including the COVID-19 pandemic, serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and renewal within the church. Believers are called to set aside differences and seek a collective renewal, focusing on their relationship with God and their mission as His people. This is a time to refocus on what truly matters, allowing trials to bring about a deeper sense of community and purpose. The church is called to be a beacon of hope, demonstrating the love and unity that comes from a shared faith in Christ. [01:11:09]
"Complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." (Philippians 2:2-3, ESV)
Reflection: How can you contribute to unity and renewal within your church community today? What practical steps can you take to foster a spirit of togetherness and shared purpose?
Day 4: The Church's Mission in a Changing World
The church is not confined to a building but is a body of believers called to proclaim the gospel. In a rapidly changing world, the church must be ready to adapt, using both digital and physical means to continue its mission. This requires a commitment to spreading God's word, regardless of the circumstances. Believers are encouraged to embrace new opportunities for ministry, ensuring that the message of Christ reaches the ends of the earth. The mission remains the same, but the methods may evolve to meet the needs of the time. [01:17:08]
"And he said to them, 'Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.'" (Mark 16:15, ESV)
Reflection: What new opportunities for sharing the gospel can you explore today, considering the current global context? How can you use your unique gifts and resources to further the church's mission?
Day 5: Embracing the Invitation to Salvation
For those who have not yet accepted Christ, the invitation to become part of the elect is open. This is a call to embrace the salvation offered through Jesus, to confess Him as Lord, and to live a life dedicated to His service. Believers are reminded of the urgency of this invitation, as the return of Christ is imminent. This is a time to reaffirm one's faith, ensuring that one's life is aligned with the teachings of Christ and actively participating in the mission of spreading the gospel. [01:31:36]
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17, ESV)
Reflection: If you have not yet accepted Christ, what is holding you back from embracing this invitation today? If you are a believer, how can you actively share this invitation with someone in your life who has not yet experienced the transformative power of salvation?
Quotes
1) "We have studied already from Matthew 24, part of the return of Jesus Christ is our obligation to share the gospel to the ends of the world. Digitally, that's one way we can do it right now, but it's your obligation. It's my obligation. It's our opportunity. It's my opportunity to share the gospel with someone. So I want to share something with you. I was able to share the gospel with someone. Actually, it goes all the way back to March 15th. There was a person in our midst that came here on that Sunday, actually March 22nd, and on March 22nd, they gave their life to Jesus, and I got to follow up with him throughout this COVID -19, and we have a new believer in Jesus Christ who's going to be baptized. That's what we do. We communicate with people that we know, our friends, our co -workers, our family, take the opportunity, maybe share them, send them a gospel. Presentation, or maybe a short video, or something from Billy Graham. Use the technology tools that we have. Share the gospel with someone. Say, hey, this is really important to me. I don't want to share it with you. Go 2020. That is something we're going to do for the rest of the year. When we get back, as we come back, and also digitally, go 2020." [21:54] (70 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2) "The church has left the building. Summer services are going to happen all summer long outside in the front yard of our church. I'm excited. This is a new movement of God, and I think God's got his hand on this, and let's see what God can do with us. Also, there's one other thing that's going on this evening. As you know, we're worshiping at seven, but at 6 p .m., grills for glory. You can see the sign up here, grills for glory. If you would like to come and do tailgate, you do need to practice social distancing during your tailgate, but families, obviously, you guys are together. But we can still come together. If you want to do a tailgate, we're going to do that down. You need to park on the parking lot down by the grass side, all right? And you can put your grills down there. You can spread your cars out. You can use the yard down there, whatever you want to do. But we come, grills for glory. So if you'd like to do that, please join us. We're going to open that up. And if it takes off, hey, this summer, you know, maybe you have some cornhole competitions, and who knows where this can go. But starting tonight at six. if you would like to, Grills for Glory. I hope to see you here at 6 p .m. for Grills for Glory, and I hope to see you here for 7 p .m. for our outdoor worship summer series, The Church Has Left the Building, Revival in Our Midst." [24:17] (72 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3) "It is always good to share good news. As we come to giving time, it's our time where we honor the Lord with our time, our talents and our treasures. And during this, you all have done amazing in giving your treasures. Thank you for your generosity. Thank you for your cheerfulness. And thank you for your adaptability to give digitally. And, listen, thank you for your faithfulness. So I stand before you. Again, we are on target, 98 % on target for our budget. We praise God that the PPP dollars came through the payroll protection plan so we can pay our teachers, continue to pay our staff. Even though the church is online, remember, tuition was lost. So we just praise God for his many provisions. Thank you for what you've done. Again, 98 % on track. Let's keep it up. Good job, family of God. And may the Lord bless us as we're confound faithful to his giving." [43:10] (55 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4) "So as we move to come back, as we move tonight to worship May 31st outside 7 p .m. for outdoor worship, I am so excited, God. I know. I know the people of God should be excited. Yeah, we still have social distancing. Yes, we still have masks. Yes, we still have lawn chairs. Yes, we're going to have to do a lot of things and be creative. A lot of people are going to have to do extra things that aren't normal. But I pray it will be a unifying movement for our church. And Lord, as we look to come back to the facility, may we never forget we are not a building. We are the church. We never closed. We don't have to reopen because we have always been your church. So Lord, I just, my heart is just for renewal. Lord, may we be renewed. And if we've missed this opportunity you've given us as an opportunity to seek renewal, to be in your word, to pray, to connect with our families, to draw closer to you and to be more ready to come back to know what really is God. God is essential and what is so, so important to us in life." [54:26] (76 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5) "Now we get to the return. We get to the rapture. This is exciting. This is where we get to jump and we don't come back down. And we get to jump and not come back down. Wouldn't that be awesome? We will defy gravity. If you want to live in defiance, let's defy gravity someday with this rapture. Listen to what Jesus says here. The visible to all. Cracking the sky will be visible to all. I grew up in the 80s when I got saved. And Mylon Laveva and the Broken Heart was a band, a rock band that was out then. And they have a song called Crack the Sky. It influenced me. It influenced my theology. Jesus, crack the sky for me. Take me home. I'm ready to go. Crack the sky for me. And this is the exact words Jesus has used here. He will crack the sky like lightning is from the east and shoots all the way to the west. So from horizon to horizon, Jesus is saying he's going to crack the sky. You're going to see it. You're going to know it. There's going to be no doubt about it. Jesus, the rapture will be known to all." [01:11:59] (57 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6) "But let's not get confused in the other things that take place. Let's make sure that our focus is what Jesus talked about in the proclamation, expanding the gospel to the ends of the world. That is our job. That's our obligation. Now, we need to live in the reality of things that are going on, and I think that Christianity and science and Christianity and medicine and Christianity and all and government and everything should be able to work together for the glory of God, but the church is the entity of Jesus Christ that is his bride. We are the ones looking for his return, and we are the ones that are declaring the good news to the nations. That's you and me. We look for his return, the bride. We are ready. We take the gospel to the ends of the world. We take it to the government. We take it to the science. We take it to the medicine. Not them taking it to us. Can I get an amen? We take the gospel. We represent Christ. We are his bride. Ready for his return." [01:17:41] (65 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7) "So the rapture, the return and the reign. So here we finally move on now to verses 30 and 31. Again, I'm looking at this as duality. It could be describing one event, but it seems like there's possible duality. So what we see here, again, I'm confessing that I'm teaching from a pre -tribulational, pre -millennial perspective, but when we get here, the rapture and the glorious appearing I believe are separated by this great tribulation. So this parousia, the coming, is just like the first one, but it's different. And Jesus is describing that he will come in the clouds. Look right there in verse 30. He will come in the sky in the clouds, just like he left. If you go look in chapter Acts, the book of Acts, chapter one, verse 11. As I have ascended, I shall return. So as he ascended into the clouds, he will return with the clouds. He's coming in the clouds and listen, when he comes back, this is what I'm calling the return, when he comes back, he will come back with great glory. Great glory is used here. The glorious appearing of the Lord Jesus Christ. What a day it will be. And if the pre -millennial, pre -trib view is correct, what will happen is those of us that have been raptured will be with the Lord. And then we will come back with the Lord in this glorious appearing upon the clouds and we will be with the Son of Man, the Son of God, that will appear." [01:26:02] (84 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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