Embracing the Majesty of Jesus' Return
Summary
### Summary
Today, we celebrated the impact of our church's outreach efforts, from providing school supplies to meal packing for those in need. These acts of service are tangible expressions of being the hands and feet of Jesus, making a real difference in our community and beyond. As we embark on our new series, "The Comeback," we delve into the second greatest comeback of all time—the second coming of Jesus Christ. This series is not about predicting the end times but about focusing on the return of Jesus, who will come to end all evil and suffering and establish a new heaven and earth.
We began by reflecting on Florence Chadwick's swim through foggy waters, a metaphor for our own struggles to see clearly through life's challenges. Just as Chadwick was close to her goal but couldn't see it, we often feel lost in the fog of our circumstances. However, the Bible assures us that Jesus will return physically and personally, with power and great glory. This promise should shift our focus from our immediate problems to the grandeur and certainty of His return.
In Revelation 1, we see a vivid and awe-inspiring picture of Jesus. He is described as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, who holds the universe in His hands. This imagery is meant to elevate our understanding of Jesus, moving beyond the gentle, approachable figure to a powerful, omnipotent Savior who commands reverence and awe. When John, the apostle, saw this vision, he fell at Jesus' feet as though dead, overwhelmed by His glory and majesty.
This series aims to correct our often diminished view of Jesus. Many of us see Him as a comforting friend but fail to recognize His immense power and authority. A small view of Jesus leads to a small life for Jesus. We need to see Him as He truly is—majestic, powerful, and awe-inspiring. This understanding should drive us to live boldly for Him, unafraid and fully committed to His mission.
### Key Takeaways
1. Outward Focus and Community Impact: Our church's outreach efforts, such as providing school supplies and packing meals, are vital expressions of Jesus' love. These acts of service not only meet physical needs but also demonstrate the tangible love of Christ to our community and beyond. They remind us that being outwardly focused can make a significant difference in the lives of others. [27:27]
2. The Certainty of Jesus' Return: The promise of Jesus' second coming is a cornerstone of our faith. He will return physically and personally, bringing an end to all evil and suffering. This assurance should shift our focus from our immediate problems to the grandeur and certainty of His return, filling us with hope and anticipation. [34:16]
3. Awe-Inspiring Vision of Jesus: Revelation 1 provides a powerful and awe-inspiring picture of Jesus. He is the Alpha and Omega, holding the universe in His hands. This vision challenges our often diminished view of Jesus, reminding us of His immense power and authority. Recognizing His true nature should drive us to live boldly and reverently for Him. [39:02]
4. The Fragility and Mission of the Church: The church is depicted as fragile yet essential, like a lampstand providing light in a dark world. This imagery underscores the importance of unity and mission within the church. We must focus on Jesus and His mission, recognizing that the church's role is to be a light for Him in a broken world. [44:25]
5. Living Without Fear: Jesus' command to "fear not" is a powerful reminder that He is in control. When we see Jesus for who He truly is—majestic, powerful, and omnipotent—we can face life's challenges without fear. His presence and promises provide the strength and courage we need to live boldly for Him, knowing that He holds the keys to death and Hades. [01:00:59]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[27:27] - Community Outreach Impact
[28:46] - Introduction to "The Comeback" Series
[30:53] - The Second Greatest Comeback
[31:36] - Florence Chadwick's Story
[32:14] - Understanding the End Times
[34:16] - The Certainty of Jesus' Return
[39:02] - Never Underestimate Jesus
[44:25] - The Fragility and Mission of the Church
[46:08] - Jesus Among the Lampstands
[49:48] - Jesus as King and High Priest
[52:15] - The Omnipresence and Omniscience of Jesus
[53:30] - The Omnipotence of Jesus
[55:21] - The Power of Jesus' Word
[56:06] - The Radiance of Jesus' Face
[56:59] - Responding to Jesus' Presence
[01:00:59] - Living Without Fear
[01:06:18] - Invitation to Accept Jesus
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Revelation 1:8-18
2. Matthew 24:29-31
3. John 16:33
#### Observation Questions
1. In Revelation 1:8, Jesus describes Himself as the Alpha and Omega. What does this title signify about His nature and authority?
2. According to Matthew 24:30, how will the tribes of the earth react when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky? [32:14]
3. In John 16:33, Jesus mentions that in this world we will have trouble. What assurance does He give us in this verse?
4. How did John react when he saw the vision of Jesus in Revelation 1:17, and what does this reaction tell us about the nature of Jesus' appearance? [56:59]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean for Jesus to be the Alpha and Omega, and how should this understanding impact our view of Him? [35:46]
2. How does the promise of Jesus' return in Matthew 24:29-31 shift our focus from immediate problems to a larger perspective of hope and anticipation? [34:16]
3. In what ways does the vision of Jesus in Revelation 1 challenge our often diminished view of Him as merely a comforting friend? [39:02]
4. How does Jesus' command to "fear not" in Revelation 1:17-18 provide comfort and strength in the face of life's challenges? [01:00:59]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the outreach efforts of our church, such as providing school supplies and packing meals. How can you personally contribute to these acts of service to demonstrate Jesus' love in our community? [27:27]
2. The sermon emphasized the certainty of Jesus' return. How can this promise help you navigate your current struggles and shift your focus to the hope of His second coming? [34:16]
3. The vision of Jesus in Revelation 1 is awe-inspiring and powerful. How can this understanding of Jesus' true nature inspire you to live more boldly and reverently for Him? [39:02]
4. The church is described as fragile yet essential, like a lampstand providing light in a dark world. How can you contribute to the unity and mission of the church, ensuring it remains a light for Jesus? [44:25]
5. Jesus' command to "fear not" is a powerful reminder of His control over all things. Identify a specific fear or challenge you are facing. How can you apply Jesus' assurance to "fear not" in this situation? [01:00:59]
6. The sermon highlighted the importance of seeing Jesus for who He truly is—majestic, powerful, and omnipotent. How can you cultivate a bigger view of Jesus in your daily life and avoid reducing Him to a mere comforting figure? [49:09]
7. Think about a time when you felt lost in the "fog" of life's challenges, similar to Florence Chadwick's swim. How can the promise of Jesus' return and His presence in your life help you see through the fog and stay focused on your goal? [31:36]
Devotional
Day 1: Outward Focus and Community Impact
Our church's outreach efforts, such as providing school supplies and packing meals, are vital expressions of Jesus' love. These acts of service not only meet physical needs but also demonstrate the tangible love of Christ to our community and beyond. They remind us that being outwardly focused can make a significant difference in the lives of others. When we serve others, we become the hands and feet of Jesus, showing His love in practical ways. This outward focus is not just about charity; it's about embodying the love and compassion of Christ in a world that desperately needs it.
By engaging in these acts of service, we are not only helping those in need but also growing in our own faith. Serving others helps us to see beyond our own circumstances and recognize the broader needs of our community. It challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and trust God to use us in ways we might not have imagined. As we continue to serve, we are reminded that our actions, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on the lives of others. [27:27]
Matthew 25:35-36 (ESV): "For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me."
Reflection: Think of a specific way you can serve someone in your community this week. How can you be the hands and feet of Jesus to them?
Day 2: The Certainty of Jesus' Return
The promise of Jesus' second coming is a cornerstone of our faith. He will return physically and personally, bringing an end to all evil and suffering. This assurance should shift our focus from our immediate problems to the grandeur and certainty of His return, filling us with hope and anticipation. Knowing that Jesus will come again to establish a new heaven and earth gives us a future hope that transcends our current struggles and challenges.
This promise is not just a distant theological concept but a living hope that should influence our daily lives. It encourages us to live with a sense of urgency and purpose, knowing that our time on earth is temporary and that we are called to be faithful stewards of the time and resources God has given us. As we await His return, we are called to live in a way that reflects His love and righteousness, preparing ourselves and others for the day when He will make all things new. [34:16]
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (ESV): "For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."
Reflection: How does the promise of Jesus' return influence your daily decisions and priorities? What changes can you make to live more intentionally in light of this hope?
Day 3: Awe-Inspiring Vision of Jesus
Revelation 1 provides a powerful and awe-inspiring picture of Jesus. He is the Alpha and Omega, holding the universe in His hands. This vision challenges our often diminished view of Jesus, reminding us of His immense power and authority. Recognizing His true nature should drive us to live boldly and reverently for Him. When we see Jesus as He truly is—majestic, powerful, and omnipotent—we are compelled to respond with worship, obedience, and a deep sense of awe.
Many of us are accustomed to seeing Jesus as a gentle and approachable friend, which He is. However, this vision in Revelation calls us to also recognize His divine majesty and authority. It is a call to elevate our understanding of who Jesus is and to live in a way that reflects His greatness. This understanding should inspire us to live with greater boldness and commitment, knowing that we serve a Savior who is both loving and all-powerful. [39:02]
Revelation 1:17-18 (ESV): "When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, 'Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.'"
Reflection: How does your current view of Jesus compare to the awe-inspiring vision in Revelation 1? What steps can you take to deepen your understanding and reverence for Him?
Day 4: The Fragility and Mission of the Church
The church is depicted as fragile yet essential, like a lampstand providing light in a dark world. This imagery underscores the importance of unity and mission within the church. We must focus on Jesus and His mission, recognizing that the church's role is to be a light for Him in a broken world. The church, though made up of imperfect people, is called to shine the light of Christ and to be a beacon of hope and truth in a world that often feels dark and hopeless.
This fragility reminds us of our dependence on Jesus and the need for His guidance and strength. It also calls us to be vigilant in maintaining the unity and purity of the church, ensuring that we are faithfully carrying out the mission He has entrusted to us. As we focus on Jesus and His mission, we are reminded that our strength and effectiveness come from Him, and that we are called to be His witnesses, sharing His love and truth with those around us. [44:25]
Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV): "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
Reflection: In what ways can you contribute to the unity and mission of your church? How can you be a light in your community this week?
Day 5: Living Without Fear
Jesus' command to "fear not" is a powerful reminder that He is in control. When we see Jesus for who He truly is—majestic, powerful, and omnipotent—we can face life's challenges without fear. His presence and promises provide the strength and courage we need to live boldly for Him, knowing that He holds the keys to death and Hades. This assurance allows us to navigate the uncertainties and difficulties of life with confidence, trusting that He is with us and that His plans for us are good.
Living without fear does not mean that we will never experience fear, but it means that we can choose to trust Jesus in the midst of our fears. It means relying on His strength and promises rather than our own understanding. As we grow in our knowledge of who Jesus is and His love for us, we can find peace and courage to face whatever comes our way, knowing that He is sovereign and that He cares for us deeply. [01:00:59]
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: What fears are you currently facing? How can you trust Jesus more fully in these areas and live with greater boldness and confidence in His promises?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "It really means something in the community when instead of being inwardly focused, we are outward. We're outwardly focused. Thousands of people on our campus getting the haircuts and the shoes and the clothes and the backpacks that you filled up. That makes a difference in our city and our community. And I hope that you were blessed to participate in that." [27:27] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "It really does make a difference to be the hands and feet of Jesus and to send the love and that food around the world. It will truly get to who needs it. So I hope you'll do it." [28:02] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Jesus said in John 16 33 in this world you will have trouble not you might not you may not if not maybe it's going to happen something wrong with your marriage or something wrong with a close friend a falling out or something going wrong at work or or maybe you walked in here today distracted and upset and confused about something and honestly some of you walked in here and you don't even know what's wrong you just feel like something's wrong." [35:46] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "When life begins to fall apart in the midst of a broken and a fallen world that we live in life is not easy in fact how many of you walked in here and you would say that you have a heavy burden or two that you're carrying with you just five or six of us pray for me Ray brother and I'll pray for you we we just got a few of us here we'll gather up after let's try that again anybody else carrying a heavy burden or two yeah every hand in the room should go up." [35:46] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Jesus says, look at me. I was dead. But death hasn't slowed me down one little bit. Sin, death, and hell, all those old enemies that you were so afraid of. Jesus said, I am the living one. I was dead, and yet behold, I'm alive forevermore. You're afraid. But look. I got the keys to death and Hades. Got them from my dad. Right? And now no one who ever follows me will be trapped any longer. Do not be afraid. Stop fearing." [01:03:23] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "When I decided to name this series The Comeback, I was talking about the second greatest comeback of all time. The second greatest comeback of all time after the resurrection, which is the thing that we all look forward to by faith, the comeback, the parousia, as we call it in Christian theological circles, that means the second coming of Jesus Christ. I'm talking about the day when he returns to bring an end to all evil and all suffering and make all things new." [30:04] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Our focus needs to be on him the one who has promised to return the one who is coming again so let me just say these two things if you're taking notes write these down in your notes here's number one we get it from the text I just read the Lord Jesus himself will return physically and personally all right it's going to happen it's not going to be in spirit whatever that means it won't be through representatives it won't be the new age Christ consciousness in the beginning was the word God the son he took on human flesh was born to a virgin named Mary and from the moment of his incarnation and putting on human flesh Jesus Christ has been fully God and fully man Jesus Christ will return one day physically and personally." [34:16] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Jesus loves the church, and he is with her, and he is for her, no matter what she's going through. So here's our application for today. Please don't bash or skip out on the church. And I'm not talking about this church in particular. I'm talking about Jesus. I'm talking about the church in general. I know it's popular with people today to say, well, I believe in God, and I'm a Christian, but man, that church thing, right? You don't even have to go to church. And listen, I know that your salvation is not tied to church attendance, but that's not what the Scripture means. Listen, Jesus loves the church. He calls the church his bride, and he says he's coming back one day to take his bride, the church, home." [46:08] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Friends, you cannot casually stand around in the presence of the resurrected Jesus. Jesus is not a smiling buddy or a heavenly grandfather who's going to just wink at your sin. He's a towering, furious figure who will not be managed. He is Lord and God. And he is among our churches. And he knows our sin. And he is big enough to do something about it. Never, ever, ever underestimate Jesus." [58:35] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "When you have a diminished view of Jesus, the church will do little for Jesus. Matt Proctor says, A low view of Jesus will always result in a low life for Jesus. You know, these churches in Asia Minor, if they had seen Jesus a little more like an action hero, they never would have risked his judgment with all of their blatant sin. But all they saw was the Mr. Rogers Jesus. Their Jesus was not fearsome. Their Jesus was not dangerous. They were not left in awe of him. They would not fall on their faces as though dead like John did. Their Jesus, he was just kind of pleasant and accommodating." [01:00:14] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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