In what ways can we prepare for the fulfillment mentioned in Luke 22:16? The Promise in View Luke 22:16: “For I tell you that I will not eat it again until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” • Jesus points to a future, literal meal with His people—fulfilled when the kingdom is fully revealed (cf. Revelation 19:9). • Our preparation is both inward (heart) and outward (life) as we await that Table. Pursuing Daily Repentance and Holiness • 1 John 3:2-3—“Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” • 2 Peter 3:11-14—live “holy and godly lives… be diligent to be found spotless.” Practical steps: – Regular self-examination against Scripture (Psalm 139:23-24). – Confession and turning from sin quickly (Proverbs 28:13). – Ordering habits—media, conversation, finances—to reflect kingdom values. Cultivating Expectant Worship • Hebrews 10:24-25—meet together “all the more as you see the Day approaching.” • Ephesians 5:18-20—be “filled with the Spirit… singing and making melody.” How: – Set aside the Lord’s Day as a joyful rehearsal for the coming feast. – Sing songs that exalt Christ’s return. – Read prophetic and hope-filled passages aloud in family and church gatherings. Faithful Participation in the Lord’s Supper • 1 Corinthians 11:26—“For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” Preparation involves: – Examining our hearts (1 Corinthians 11:28). – Remembering the cross, rejoicing in the resurrection, looking forward to the kingdom banquet. – Seeking reconciliation with believers before taking the elements (Matthew 5:23-24). Practicing Unity and Love • John 13:34-35—“By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” • Ephesians 4:3—“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit.” Ways to live it: – Hospitality that previews the coming feast—invite saints and strangers to your table. – Forgive quickly (Colossians 3:13). – Use gifts to build up the body (1 Peter 4:10-11). Proclaiming the Gospel Until He Comes • Matthew 24:14—“This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world… and then the end will come.” • Romans 10:14-15—people cannot believe without hearing. Action points: – Share your testimony; weave in the hope of Christ’s return. – Support global missions with prayer, finances, and, if called, your presence. – Teach the next generation the whole counsel of God (Deuteronomy 6:6-9). Living as Watchful Stewards • Matthew 25:13—“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” • Romans 13:11—“Our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.” Stewardship checklist: – Time: prioritize eternal pursuits over temporal distractions. – Talents: deploy skills for kingdom purposes. – Treasure: invest in gospel work; “store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). Encouraging One Another with Hope • 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18—comfort one another with the promise of His coming. • Isaiah 25:6-9—prophetic picture of the feast and the end of death. Practically: – Speak often of the “blessed hope,” not just current events. – Send Scripture-saturated notes/texts to believers facing trials. – Memorize key promises together (John 14:1-3; Revelation 22:20). Summary Snapshot Prepare by: 1. Keeping short accounts with God—repent and pursue holiness. 2. Gathering for worship with hearts fixed on His return. 3. Approaching the Lord’s Supper as rehearsal for the ultimate banquet. 4. Walking in love and unity within the body. 5. Advancing the gospel locally and globally. 6. Stewarding resources in light of eternity. 7. Encouraging one another with the certainty of the coming kingdom. “‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20) |
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