In what ways can we prepare for the unexpected return of Jesus? Staying Awake: The Call of Matthew 24:42 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come.” Jesus’ words are plain: the timing is hidden; vigilance is required. Preparing for His sudden return isn’t complicated, but it is intentional. Active Watching, Not Passive Waiting • “Keep watch” in Greek (grēgoreō) means to stay awake—alert, attentive, purposeful. • Like the householder in Matthew 24:43, we guard what matters most, refusing spiritual drowsiness. • 1 Thessalonians 5:6 echoes: “So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober.” • Practically, this looks like daily moments of Scripture intake, prayerful reflection, and refusing distractions that dull our spiritual senses. Living Holy and God-Focused • 2 Peter 3:11-12 links Christ’s return with holy conduct: “What kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God.” • Holiness isn’t perfectionism; it’s consistent surrender. – Evaluate habits and entertainment choices. – Confess sin quickly (1 John 1:9). – Replace compromise with obedience. Engaging in Faithful Service • Matthew 24:45-47 portrays a “faithful and wise servant” who keeps feeding others until the Master arrives. • Readiness shows in practical service: – Use your spiritual gifts (1 Peter 4:10). – Encourage fellow believers daily (Hebrews 3:13). – Meet tangible needs—food, friendship, prayer. Cultivating Expectant Hope • Titus 2:13 calls us to be “waiting for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” • Expectation fuels endurance: – Meditate on prophecies of His coming (John 14:1-3; Revelation 22:12). – Celebrate the Lord’s Supper “until He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). – Talk openly about the hope of His return; it resets priorities. Guarding the Heart Against Drift • Luke 21:34 warns, “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and the anxieties of life, and that Day will spring upon you suddenly like a trap.” • Two common threats: – Pleasure-seeking that numbs spiritual hunger. – Worry that shifts focus from eternal to temporal. • Countermeasures: worship, gratitude lists, generous giving. Storing Up Eternal Investments • Matthew 6:20: “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” • Jesus may come today; everything material could be left behind. – Invest in people, not merely possessions. – Support gospel missions and mercy ministries (Philippians 4:17). – Practice hospitality; invite others into your life and future hope. Maintaining an Urgent Gospel Witness • 2 Corinthians 5:20 reminds, “We are ambassadors for Christ.” • Preparing for His return means helping others be ready: – Share your testimony naturally. – Offer Scripture portions or resources. – Pray for open doors and boldness (Colossians 4:3-4). Summary Snapshot Ready believers stay awake, live holy, serve faithfully, hope expectantly, guard their hearts, invest eternally, and witness urgently. Jesus’ coming is certain; the timing is not. Therefore, every day is preparation day. |
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