In what ways can we live expectantly for Christ's return as described here? Setting Our Hearts on His Imminence “It will be just like that on the day the Son of Man is revealed.” (Luke 17:30) — a clear reminder that the return of Jesus will be sudden, unmistakable, and life-altering. He will come whether people believe or not, so believers fix their hopes on Him and shape every choice around His promised appearance. Learning from Luke 17:26-30 • Jesus compares His return to the days of Noah and Lot (vv. 26-29). Ordinary life went on, yet judgment and deliverance arrived without warning. • The same pattern teaches us to live with constant readiness, refusing spiritual complacency. Living Expectantly: Daily Practices • Stay alert: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” (Matthew 25:13) • Hold possessions loosely: “Remember Lot’s wife.” (Luke 17:32) — attachment can cripple obedience. • Maintain urgency: “Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning.” (Luke 12:35) Cultivating Watchful Prayer • “Be on guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13) • Pray for eyes to discern the times (Mark 13:33) and for boldness to walk in God’s will (Ephesians 6:18). Pursuing Holy Living • “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 3:3) • Conduct marked by integrity, sexual purity, and compassion shows we expect to meet a holy King (2 Peter 3:11-14). Prioritizing Gospel Witness • “The gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world… and then the end will come.” (Matthew 24:14) • Speak Christ, live Christ, support missions; urgency rises when we remember His imminent return. Investing in Eternal Stewardship • Manage time, talents, and finances as servants who will give account (Matthew 25:14-30). • “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:20) Encouraging One Another in Community • “And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds… and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Regular fellowship fuels perseverance and heightens corporate hope. Longing for the Blessed Hope • “We wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:13) • Express longing through worship, singing, and celebrating the Lord’s Supper: “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” (1 Corinthians 11:26) Conclusion: Eyes Lifted, Hands Busy By keeping watchful hearts, holy habits, and active hands, believers live each sunrise as if it could usher in Christ’s triumphant return—confident that the Son of Man will indeed be revealed, just as He promised. |
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