In what ways can we prepare for the "day of our Lord Jesus"? Setting Our Sights on “the Day of our Lord Jesus” 2 Corinthians 1:14 reminds us that believers will one day “boast” in one another before Christ. Paul’s confidence becomes our call: live now so that, when Jesus appears, our lives will honor Him and encourage fellow saints. Secure Your Foundation: Faith in Christ Alone • John 3:36 – “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life.” • Acts 4:12 – “There is no other name under heaven…by which we must be saved.” Prepare first by trusting fully in the finished work of Jesus—no mixture of human merit. Pursue Holiness Daily • 1 Peter 1:15-16 – “Be holy in all you do.” • 2 Peter 3:11-14 – “What kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives … be spotless, blameless, and at peace with Him.” Practical steps: – Regular Scripture intake (Psalm 119:11) – Confession and repentance (1 John 1:9) – Choosing purity in thoughts, words, and actions (Philippians 4:8) Nurture Loving Relationships in the Body • John 13:34-35 – Love is Christ’s badge of discipleship. • Hebrews 10:24-25 – “Stir one another to love and good works … encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Ways to prepare together: – Meet faithfully for worship and fellowship – Speak words that build up (Ephesians 4:29) – Reconcile quickly (Matthew 5:23-24) Serve Faithfully with the Gifts God Gives • 1 Peter 4:10 – “Use whatever gift you have received to serve others … as faithful stewards.” • 1 Corinthians 15:58 – “Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” Preparation looks like: – Discovering spiritual gifts – Investing time, talent, and resources – Keeping motives Christ-centered (Colossians 3:23-24) Stand Firm in Suffering • 2 Corinthians 1:5 – “For just as the sufferings of Christ overflow to us, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.” • James 1:12 – “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial.” Trials refine faith and deepen our anticipation of His appearing. Watch and Pray Continually • Matthew 24:42 – “Keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” • Luke 21:36 – “Be always on the watch, and pray.” Cultivate: – Ongoing conversation with God – Sensitivity to the Spirit’s promptings – Readiness to drop lesser pursuits for Kingdom priorities Reflect His Glory Until He Comes • Philippians 2:15-16 – “Shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life.” • 2 Corinthians 3:18 – We are “being transformed into the same image from glory to glory.” Let Christ’s character radiate through acts of mercy, integrity in work, and proclamation of the gospel. Awaiting the Boast of Mutual Joy When that Day dawns, the faithful will rejoice together—each life a testimony to God’s grace. Prepare now, so that you and those who know you can “boast” in one another “in the day of our Lord Jesus” (2 Corinthians 1:14). |
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