How does Jesus' return influence our daily Christian walk and decisions? The Promise in Acts 3:20 “and that He may send Jesus, the Christ appointed for you.” • Peter links repentance to a real, future moment when the Father will literally “send Jesus.” • The verse anchors our hope in a concrete event, not a vague spiritual concept—Jesus will bodily return to earth. Living Today with Tomorrow in View Other passages widen the lens: • John 14:3 — “I will come again and receive you to Myself.” • Titus 2:13 — “while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” • 1 John 3:2-3 — “We know that when Christ appears, we shall be like Him… Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself.” Because His return is certain, every ordinary day takes on eternal weight. Daily Choices Shaped by His Return • Pursue holiness – 1 John 3:3 links hope to personal purity. – 2 Peter 3:11 asks, “What kind of people ought you to be?” The answer: “holy and godly.” • Cultivate urgency in repentance – Acts 3:19-20: repent now so you’re ready for the “times of refreshing.” • Share the gospel faithfully – 2 Corinthians 5:11: “Knowing, therefore, the fear of the Lord, we persuade men.” • Endure hardship with patience – James 5:8-9: “Be patient… for the coming of the Lord is at hand.” • Steward resources wisely – Luke 19:13: “Engage in business until I come.” We invest time, talents, and treasure with the Master’s return in mind. Encouragement in Trials • 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 promises resurrection and reunion; we “encourage one another with these words.” • Romans 8:18 reminds us current sufferings “are not comparable with the glory” to be revealed when Christ returns. Motivation for Ministry • 1 Corinthians 15:58 ties resurrection hope to steadfast labor: “be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” • Matthew 24:46: “Blessed is that servant whom his master finds doing so when he returns.” Faithfulness now will be rewarded then. Guarding Against Spiritual Drift • Luke 12:45-46 warns against assuming delay and slipping into complacency. • Revelation 22:12: “Look, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me.” Accountability strengthens vigilance. Practical Steps for an Expectant Life • Start every day by recalling: “He may send Jesus.” • Keep short accounts with God—quick to confess and forgive. • Prioritize gatherings with believers (Hebrews 10:24-25) as the Day approaches. • Invest in eternal things—people, Scripture, service—over fleeting pursuits. • Speak of His coming naturally; let hope season conversations. • When facing temptation, ask: “Would I want to be doing this if Christ appeared right now?” Jesus’ promised return turns abstract theology into daily motivation—shaping what we love, how we live, and where we invest every moment until He steps back into history. |
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