How can we prepare for the "end of the age" mentioned here? Examining the Verse “‘Tell us,’ they said, ‘when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming and of the end of the age?’” (Matthew 24:3) Recognize the Certainty of an Ending • Jesus says history is moving toward a definite, God-appointed conclusion (Matthew 24:35). • Hebrews 9:27-28 reminds us every person and the world itself have an appointed finale—Christ’s return to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him. • Because God’s Word is flawless and unbreakable, we prepare by taking His timeline seriously rather than dismissing it as figurative or distant. Stay Alert: Guard Against Deception • “See that no one deceives you.” (Matthew 24:4–5) • False christs, false prophets, and twisted gospels will multiply (vv. 11, 23-25; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15). • Practical steps: – Know the real Christ through daily Scripture intake (Acts 17:11). – Test every spirit and teaching (1 John 4:1). – Stay planted in a biblically sound fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). Stand Firm in Love and Holiness • “Because of the multiplication of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. But the one who perseveres to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:12-13) • Guard your heart from cynicism by pursuing holiness (2 Peter 3:11-14) and brotherly love (John 13:34-35). • Spiritual disciplines—prayer, fasting, corporate worship—keep love blazing amid increasing darkness. Carry Out the Great Commission • “This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world… and then the end will come.” (Matthew 24:14) • Jesus ties the timing of the end to gospel proclamation. Our role: – Go, make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18-20). – Support missions through prayer, giving, and going (Romans 10:13-15). – Share Christ in everyday conversations (2 Timothy 4:2). Cultivate Watchful Readiness • “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” (Matthew 24:42) • Readiness isn’t paranoia; it’s faithful alertness: – Regular self-examination and repentance (1 John 1:9). – Living each day as though Christ could return before nightfall (James 4:13-15). – Encouraging one another with this hope (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18; 5:4-8). Invest Faithfully in What God Entrusts • Parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) shows Jesus expects growth, not passivity. • Use time, abilities, resources, and spiritual gifts for Kingdom purposes (Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 4:10-11). • Faithfulness now leads to greater stewardship in the age to come (Luke 19:17). Practice Compassionate Obedience • The Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31-46) reveals that genuine faith acts. • Serve Christ by serving “the least of these”: – Feed the hungry, welcome strangers, care for the sick, visit prisoners. – Do good “especially to the household of faith” (Galatians 6:9-10) while extending mercy to all. Anchor Your Hope in Christ’s Promise • “I will come again and receive you to Myself.” (John 14:3) • “Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing.” (Titus 2:11-13) • “Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me.” (Revelation 22:12) • Hope in His return fuels endurance, joy, and purity (1 John 3:3). Living Each Day Toward That Day • Believe God’s timetable. • Discern truth from error. • Love and live holy. • Spread the gospel. • Remain vigilant. • Multiply what He’s given. • Serve the vulnerable. • Fix your eyes on the soon-coming King. |
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