Living in Anticipation of Christ's Return
Summary
The anticipation of the Lord's return, or the "parousia," is a central theme that should profoundly impact how we live our lives today. The imminent return of Christ is not just a distant theological concept but a reality that should shape our daily actions and attitudes. James, in his straightforward manner, emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance in light of this truth. He likens our waiting to that of a farmer who patiently waits for the early and late rains, understanding that there are seasons of growth and dormancy, all under God's sovereign control.
As believers, we are called to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that Jesus' return will bring justice and restoration to a broken world. This understanding should motivate us to live in harmony and unity with one another, avoiding complaints and divisions. The judge is at the door, and we are to act in a manner befitting His imminent arrival. Our unity is not based on superficial similarities but on our shared commitment to Christ, which transcends all other differences.
James also reminds us of the importance of trusting in God's character, even when circumstances are challenging. The example of Job, who endured immense suffering yet remained steadfast in his faith, serves as a powerful reminder of God's compassion and mercy. We are encouraged to strengthen our hearts by immersing ourselves in God's Word and allowing it to shape our perspective.
In our journey of faith, we are not alone. We are part of a community of believers who have experienced God's faithfulness throughout history. This collective testimony fuels our faith and encourages us to continue pursuing God's mission with passion and dedication. As we anticipate the Lord's return, we are called to be a people fueled by faith, living fully into the mission of sharing God's story from Norfolk to the nations.
Key Takeaways:
- The imminent return of Christ, the "parousia," should shape our daily lives, encouraging us to live with patience and perseverance, much like a farmer waiting for the rains. This perspective helps us focus on eternal realities rather than temporary challenges. [12:46]
- Unity within the body of Christ is essential as we await the Lord's return. Our oneness is found in our shared commitment to Jesus, transcending all other differences. This unity requires intentional effort and authentic relationships. [33:38]
- Trusting in God's character, even when circumstances are difficult, is crucial. The example of Job reminds us of God's compassion and mercy, encouraging us to remain steadfast in our faith despite challenges. [45:12]
- Strengthening our hearts involves immersing ourselves in God's Word and allowing it to shape our perspective. This process helps us gain a right perspective on what God is doing in the world and aligns our hearts with His purposes. [55:27]
- We are part of a community of believers who have experienced God's faithfulness throughout history. This collective testimony fuels our faith and encourages us to continue pursuing God's mission with passion and dedication. [01:05:45]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:30] - Introduction and Personal Story
[02:15] - The Book of James and Its Relevance
[04:00] - Understanding Parousia
[06:45] - The Imminence of the Lord's Return
[09:30] - Living in Light of Christ's Return
[12:46] - Patience and Perseverance
[15:20] - The Example of the Farmer
[18:00] - Strengthening Our Hearts
[21:15] - Unity in the Body of Christ
[24:30] - Trusting God's Character
[27:45] - The Example of Job
[30:00] - The Role of Community and Testimony
[33:38] - Avoiding Complaints and Divisions
[36:00] - Conclusion and Prayer
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- James 5:7-11
Observation Questions:
1. What analogy does James use to describe the patience required of believers as they await the Lord's return? How does this analogy help us understand the concept of patience? [12:46]
2. According to the sermon, what is the significance of the Lord's return being described as "imminent"? How does this affect the way we live our lives today? [06:45]
3. How does James describe the role of unity within the body of Christ in anticipation of the Lord's return? What are the potential consequences of failing to maintain this unity? [33:38]
Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the example of the farmer waiting for the early and late rains illustrate the kind of patience and perseverance James is encouraging? What might this look like in a believer's life today? [12:46]
2. In what ways does the anticipation of the Lord's return provide motivation for believers to live in harmony and unity? How does this perspective transcend other differences among believers? [33:38]
3. How does the story of Job serve as a reminder of God's compassion and mercy, and what does it teach us about trusting God's character during challenging times? [45:12]
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a situation in your life where you find it difficult to be patient. How can the analogy of the farmer waiting for the rains help you cultivate patience in this situation? [12:46]
2. Consider your relationships within the church. Are there any areas where you need to work on unity and avoid complaints or divisions? What steps can you take to foster authentic relationships with fellow believers? [33:38]
3. Think about a time when you struggled to trust in God's character during a difficult circumstance. How can the example of Job encourage you to remain steadfast in your faith? [45:12]
4. How can immersing yourself in God's Word help you gain a right perspective on what God is doing in the world? What specific steps can you take to strengthen your heart through Scripture this week? [55:27]
5. Reflect on the collective testimony of believers who have experienced God's faithfulness. How can these stories fuel your faith and encourage you to pursue God's mission with passion and dedication? [01:05:45]
6. Identify one area in your life where you need to live with an eternal perspective. How can the anticipation of the Lord's return shape your actions and attitudes in this area? [06:45]
7. How can you actively participate in the mission of sharing God's story from Norfolk to the nations? What is one specific action you can take this week to contribute to this mission? [01:05:45]
Devotional
Day 1: Living with Eternal Perspective
The anticipation of Christ's return, known as the "parousia," is not merely a distant theological concept but a reality that should shape our daily lives. This imminent return encourages believers to live with patience and perseverance, much like a farmer who waits for the early and late rains, understanding that growth and dormancy are part of God's sovereign plan. By focusing on eternal realities rather than temporary challenges, we can align our actions and attitudes with the truth of Christ's return. This perspective helps us to remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that our labor is not in vain. [12:46]
"For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised. For, 'Yet a little while, and the coming one will come and will not delay.'" (Hebrews 10:36-37, ESV)
Reflection: What temporary challenges are currently distracting you from focusing on eternal realities? How can you shift your perspective today to align more closely with the anticipation of Christ's return?
Day 2: Unity in Christ
Unity within the body of Christ is essential as we await the Lord's return. Our oneness is found in our shared commitment to Jesus, which transcends all other differences. This unity requires intentional effort and authentic relationships, as we strive to live in harmony and avoid complaints and divisions. The judge is at the door, and we are called to act in a manner befitting His imminent arrival. By fostering unity, we reflect the love and grace of Christ to a watching world, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel. [33:38]
"May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 15:5-6, ESV)
Reflection: Is there someone in your church community with whom you need to reconcile or strengthen your relationship? What steps can you take today to foster unity and harmony within the body of Christ?
Day 3: Trusting in God's Character
Trusting in God's character, even when circumstances are difficult, is crucial for maintaining a steadfast faith. The example of Job, who endured immense suffering yet remained faithful, serves as a powerful reminder of God's compassion and mercy. In times of trial, believers are encouraged to trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, knowing that He is working all things for His glory and our good. By immersing ourselves in God's Word, we can strengthen our hearts and gain a right perspective on what God is doing in the world. [45:12]
"Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful." (James 5:11, ESV)
Reflection: What current challenge in your life is testing your trust in God's character? How can you remind yourself of His compassion and mercy today?
Day 4: Strengthening Our Hearts
Strengthening our hearts involves immersing ourselves in God's Word and allowing it to shape our perspective. This process helps us gain a right understanding of what God is doing in the world and aligns our hearts with His purposes. By regularly engaging with Scripture, we can develop a deeper relationship with God and be better equipped to face the challenges of life with faith and confidence. As we grow in our understanding of God's character and His plans, we are empowered to live out our faith with boldness and conviction. [55:27]
"My son, do not lose sight of these—keep sound wisdom and discretion, and they will be life for your soul and adornment for your neck." (Proverbs 3:21-22, ESV)
Reflection: How can you incorporate more time in God's Word into your daily routine? What specific steps can you take to ensure that Scripture is shaping your perspective and guiding your actions?
Day 5: The Role of Community and Testimony
As believers, we are part of a community that has experienced God's faithfulness throughout history. This collective testimony fuels our faith and encourages us to continue pursuing God's mission with passion and dedication. By sharing our stories and experiences, we can inspire one another to remain steadfast in our faith and committed to the work of the gospel. As we anticipate the Lord's return, we are called to be a people fueled by faith, living fully into the mission of sharing God's story from Norfolk to the nations. [01:05:45]
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)
Reflection: How can you actively participate in your faith community to encourage and support others? What is one way you can share your testimony to inspire someone else in their faith journey today?
Quotes
Unity as a church is not it we can we can laugh and we should laugh and we should have fun in church but unity is a church in a church is no is no laughing matter and again it's just a really it's a it's a struggle because we we we me you we we are all in our core. [00:33:38] (21 seconds)
There needs to be harmony there needs to be unity and and what we do not mean by harmony and unity is that that doesn't mean to become a doormat that doesn't mean to um to just suck it up and just let everybody you know run roughshod that is not what harmony and unity is. [00:36:00] (21 seconds)
Our oneness is not found in our political affiliation our oneness is not found in our skin color our oneness is not found in the way that we choose to educate our kids our oneness is not found in the fact that we're Americans our oneness is not found in any of those things. [00:39:29] (19 seconds)
Job he did a lot of bending right Job even did some you know there were things that he didn't understand but in in Job's bending he never broke and what did he not break he never broke his fundamental belief that god is a god of character he's worthy of our trust. [00:45:12] (25 seconds)
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