How can we live daily with expectancy for Christ's return as taught here? The Promise of His Coming “Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.” (Matthew 16:28) Jesus’ words assured the disciples that His kingdom would break into history within their lifetimes—first glimpsed at the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8) and later confirmed by the resurrection and ascension. Because that initial fulfillment truly happened, we can have absolute confidence that His final, visible return will also happen just as literally (Acts 1:11). Why Matthew 16:28 Fuels Expectation Today • It anchors hope in a specific promise spoken by the Lord Himself. • It shows God’s habit of partial, near fulfillment (Transfiguration) that guarantees ultimate, future fulfillment (Second Coming). • It reminds us that the King is never late; His timetable is precise (Galatians 4:4; 2 Peter 3:8-9). Daily Heart Posture of Expectancy • Stay alert spiritually: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come.” (Matthew 24:42) • Live uprightly: “Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives.” (2 Peter 3:11) • Set your mind above: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2) • Cultivate longing: “As we await the blessed hope—the glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:13) Practical Rhythms to Keep Watch • Begin each morning saying, “Today could be the day.” This simple declaration shapes attitudes toward decisions, temptations, and opportunities for witness. • Integrate prophecy into personal Bible reading—Revelation, 1-2 Thessalonians, Daniel—so the promise stays fresh. • Keep short accounts with God and people: confess sin quickly, grant forgiveness freely (1 John 1:9; Ephesians 4:32). • Engage in gospel conversations. Remember, every person you meet is someone Christ may return for today (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Practice generosity and service as investments in an eternal portfolio (Matthew 6:19-21). • Schedule periodic technology-free hours to listen, pray, and watch for the Spirit’s promptings (Luke 12:35-36). Encouragement from the Early Church • Philippians 3:20-21 — They eagerly awaited a Savior who will “transform our lowly bodies.” • 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 — Paul ends with, “Therefore encourage one another with these words.” Expectancy brings comfort. • Hebrews 10:24-25 — Meeting together stirs up love and good works “all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Living as Kingdom Ambassadors Today Knowing the King could step onto the scene at any moment propels us to: 1. Speak truth without delay. 2. Love sacrificially, reflecting future kingdom values now. 3. Endure trials with patience, “for yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not delay.” (Hebrews 10:37) The certainty of Christ’s return is not merely a doctrine to admire; it is a daily lens for decisions, relationships, and hopes. Let every sunrise raise the possibility of His appearing, and let every sunset find us faithful, watching, and ready. |
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