What practical steps can we take to prepare for the resurrection mentioned here? Anticipating the Moment: John 5:28 in Focus “Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear His voice.” (John 5:28) Jesus speaks of a literal future event when every grave will yield to His command. What can we do now to be ready for that glorious awakening? Step 1: Believe the One Who Calls • Embrace Jesus as Savior and Lord: “Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life…” (John 5:24). • Rely on His finished work, not personal merit (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Keep faith active and growing through Scripture intake (Romans 10:17). Step 2: Walk in Daily Repentance and Holiness • Confess sin immediately (1 John 1:9). • Pursue a lifestyle that reflects God’s character: “Just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.” (1 Peter 1:15). • Cultivate spiritual disciplines—prayer, fasting, worship—to keep the heart tender. Step 3: Anchor Hope in the Coming Resurrection • Meditate on resurrection promises: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52. • Encourage one another with these truths (1 Thessalonians 4:18). • Reorient priorities—invest in what lasts (Colossians 3:1-4). Step 4: Abound in Love and Good Works • Good deeds done in Christ follow us into eternity (Revelation 14:13). • Regularly serve in the church and community (Galatians 6:9-10). • Let love be genuine, sacrificial, and practical (John 13:34-35). Step 5: Steward the Body with Eternity in View • Recognize the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). • Practice self-control in diet, exercise, and rest. • Use physical strength for God’s purposes, anticipating its future glorification (Philippians 3:20-21). Step 6: Spread the Word of Life • Share the gospel boldly—others need to be prepared for that same hour (Matthew 28:19-20). • Live a life that adorns the message (Titus 2:10). • Support missions and disciple new believers, multiplying readiness. Step 7: Persevere Until the Trumpet Sounds • Hold fast during trials, knowing resurrection vindication is certain (Romans 8:18). • Stay alert and sober (1 Thessalonians 5:6). • “Make every effort to be found at peace, without spot or blemish” when He appears (2 Peter 3:14). Living Today for the Coming Hour Every deliberate act of faith, obedience, and love readies us for the moment when Christ’s voice shatters graves and ushers in eternity. Let His promise shape every decision now, so that when that hour comes, we rise to meet Him with joy. |
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