Living in Anticipation of Christ's Return

The return of Jesus Christ is a profound and often overlooked aspect of our faith. As we reflect on the past year, it's crucial to ask ourselves if we have truly been living in anticipation of His return. The early church, the prophets, and the apostles all emphasized this event, yet it can easily slip from our minds amidst the busyness of life. The return of Christ is not just a theological concept; it is a reality that should shape our daily lives and priorities.

Jesus Himself spoke extensively about His return, urging us to be ready and watchful. In Matthew 24, He compares His return to the days of Noah, where people were caught unaware, living their lives without regard for the impending flood. Similarly, many today live without consideration of Christ's return, focusing solely on earthly matters. However, as believers, we are called to be different, to live with a heavenly perspective, eagerly awaiting our Savior.

The world may scoff at the idea of Christ's return, dismissing it as a myth or superstition. Yet, we must not let this mockery silence us. We are called to boldly proclaim the truth of His return, even if it seems foolish to others. The patience of God, as described in 2 Peter 3, is not a sign of His delay but of His desire for all to come to repentance. His timing is perfect, and His return is certain.

As we enter a new year, let us commit to living with an eternal perspective. Let us hold each other accountable, reminding one another of the hope we have in Christ's return. This anticipation should lead us to live holy and godly lives, ready to meet our Savior. Let us confess our sins, seek His forgiveness, and strive to live in a way that honors Him, knowing that one day all will be revealed.

Key Takeaways

• 1. The return of Jesus Christ is a central theme in Scripture, emphasized by the prophets, apostles, and Jesus Himself. It should be a focal point in our lives, influencing our actions and priorities. Reflect on whether you have been living with this anticipation. [01:13]
• 2. Jesus warned that His return would be unexpected, like a thief in the night. We must be vigilant and ready, living lives that reflect our hope in His return. Consider how you can live more intentionally in light of this truth. [05:45]
• 3. The world may mock the idea of Christ's return, but we must stand firm in our faith. Do not let scoffers silence you; instead, boldly proclaim the truth of His return and live in a way that honors Him. [18:50]
• 4. God's patience is an expression of His love, giving people time to repent. Reflect on His kindness and use this time to turn away from sin and live a life pleasing to Him. [30:18]
• 5. As we enter a new year, let us confess our sins and seek God's forgiveness. Embrace the opportunity for a fresh start, living with an eternal perspective and eagerly awaiting Christ's return. [39:35]
  ** [39:35]

Youtube Chapters

• [00:00] - Welcome
• [00:17] - Introduction to the Return of Christ
• [01:13] - Living with Anticipation
• [02:41] - Understanding the Return of Jesus
• [04:17] - Scriptural Emphasis on Christ's Return
• [05:45] - Be Ready and Watchful
• [07:27] - Reflecting on Readiness
• [09:14] - A Personal Story of Anticipation
• [11:35] - The Current State of the World
• [13:30] - The Importance of Being Prepared
• [15:00] - Stirring Up Sincere Minds
• [17:42] - The Reality of Scoffers
• [20:28] - Boldly Proclaiming the Truth
• [24:07] - The Liberation from Morality
• [30:18] - God's Patience and Our Repentance
• [34:11] - The Certainty of Christ's Return
• [39:35] - Embracing a Fresh Start

Observation Questions

1. What does Jesus compare His return to in Matthew 24, and why is this significant? [05:03]
2. How does 2 Peter 3 describe God's perspective on time, and what is the purpose of His patience? [29:18]
3. According to the sermon, how often is the return of Christ mentioned in the New Testament, and why is this important? [04:33]
4. What imagery does Malachi 4 use to describe the day of the Lord, and what does it signify for believers? [16:45]

Interpretation Questions

1. How might the unexpected nature of Christ's return, as described in Matthew 24, influence a believer's daily life and priorities? [05:45]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the anticipation of Christ's return should differentiate believers from the rest of the world? [01:13]
3. How does the sermon explain the role of scoffers in the last days, and what impact might they have on a believer's faith? [18:08]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the relationship between God's patience and human repentance, as seen in 2 Peter 3? [30:18]

Application Questions

1. Reflect on your past year. How often did you think about the return of Christ, and how did it affect your actions and decisions? [01:28]
2. Jesus warns that His return will be like a thief in the night. What practical steps can you take to live more intentionally in anticipation of His return? [05:45]
3. The sermon mentions the world's mockery of Christ's return. How can you stand firm in your faith and boldly proclaim this truth in your community? [18:50]
4. Consider God's patience as an expression of His love. How can you use this time to turn away from sin and live a life that pleases Him? [30:18]
5. As we enter a new year, what specific sins do you need to confess and seek forgiveness for? How can you embrace the opportunity for a fresh start? [39:35]
6. How can you hold yourself and others accountable to live with an eternal perspective, eagerly awaiting Christ's return? [08:50]
7. Think of a moment in your life when you were not ready for Christ's return. What changes can you make to ensure you are prepared in the future? [07:50]