How can we live now to be considered "worthy" as described in Luke 20:35? Setting the Scene “Those who are considered worthy to share in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage.” (Luke 20:35) Worthiness Defined • Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Yet God repeatedly speaks of believers being “considered worthy” (2 Thessalonians 1:11; Revelation 3:4). • Worthiness, then, is not self-earned merit but the evidence of genuine faith—lives that align with the righteous standing Christ has granted us (Philippians 1:27). Foundations of a Worthy Life • Repentant, obedient faith in Christ – Acts 20:21 “testifying to Jews and Greeks alike about repentance to God and faith in our Lord Jesus.” • Daily abiding in Him – John 15:4-5 “The one who remains in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit.” • Pursuit of holiness – Hebrews 12:14 “Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” • Spirit-led living – Galatians 5:16 “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” • Love expressed in tangible service – 1 John 3:18 “Let us love not with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” • Perseverance through trials – James 1:12 “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life.” • Guarding sound doctrine – 1 Timothy 4:16 “Watch your life and doctrine closely.” • Alertness and prayerfulness – Luke 21:36 “Be always on the watch, and pray that you may have strength to escape all that is about to happen and to stand before the Son of Man.” Practical Daily Rhythms • Scripture intake: read, meditate, memorize (Psalm 1:2). • Persistent prayer: thanksgiving, confession, intercession (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). • Gathering with the church: worship, fellowship, mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Regular self-examination and confession of sin (1 John 1:9). • Generous giving and hospitality (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Evangelism and discipleship (Matthew 28:19-20). • Cultivating an eternal perspective: set minds “on things above” (Colossians 3:1-4). Encouragement to Finish Well “He who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24) By trusting Christ’s finished work and living lives that display His holiness, we prepare to be counted among those “considered worthy to share in the age to come.” Hold fast, walk in obedience, and look forward with confidence to the resurrection He has promised. |
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