How can we prepare for Jesus' return as described in Matthew 25:31? Matthew 25:31—His Certain Arrival “When the Son of Man comes in His glory…” (Matthew 25:31) “…He will sit on His glorious throne.” (Matthew 25:31) Why Preparation Matters • The coming is personal, visible, and unavoidable. • Judgment follows (Matthew 25:32-33). • Today’s choices shape eternity (2 Corinthians 5:10). Cultivate Watchful Hearts • Stay spiritually awake—“let us remain awake and sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6). • Keep looking up—“Behold, I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:12). • Guard against complacency; His timing is unknown (Matthew 24:42). Walk in Faithful Stewardship • Use time, talents, and resources for the Master (Matthew 25:14-30). • Serve wholeheartedly—“whatever you do, work at it with all your heart” (Colossians 3:23). • Aim to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). Show Compassionate Service • Meet tangible needs—food, water, clothing, welcome (Matthew 25:35-36). • See Christ in the needy—“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least…you did for Me” (Matthew 25:40). • Love “not with words or speech but with actions” (1 John 3:18). Pursue Holiness and Obedience • “What kind of people ought you to be? Live holy and godly lives” (2 Peter 3:11). • Separate from sin; cling to righteousness (Romans 6:19). • Let Scripture shape character (Psalm 119:11). Live with Urgent Hope • “We await the blessed hope—the appearing of…our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). • Encourage one another daily (Hebrews 3:13). • Keep eternal rewards in view (Matthew 6:20). Daily Readiness Checklist – Begin each day in the Word and prayer. – Confess sin promptly; seek cleansing (1 John 1:9). – Look for ways to serve someone tangible. – Invest your gifts in kingdom work. – Speak of Christ whenever doors open (2 Timothy 4:2). – End the day with gratitude, trusting tomorrow to Him. Final Encouragement Live today as though He could appear tonight. Faithful watchfulness, loving service, and holy living keep lamps trimmed and hearts ready for the moment the King takes His seat on that glorious throne. |