Why is it important to be vigilant for Christ's return according to Mark 13:35? Setting the Scene “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know when the master of the house will return—whether in the evening, at midnight, when the rooster crows, or in the morning.” (Mark 13:35) Jesus speaks these words during His Olivet Discourse. He presents the end-times not as distant theory but as a real, approaching moment. His call is crystal-clear: be vigilant. Understanding the Picture Jesus Paints • The “master of the house” is Christ Himself. • The “house” represents our lives, families, churches—everything under His authority. • The four Roman night-watches (evening, midnight, rooster-crow, morning) underline total unpredictability; no segment of time is exempt. • The return is literal, personal, and bodily (Acts 1:11). Reasons Vigilance Matters 1. Uncertainty of Timing • “You do not know.” Ignorance of the exact hour forces continual readiness (cf. Matthew 24:42). 2. Certainty of Accountability • A master inspects his servants. Our works will be evaluated (2 Corinthians 5:10). 3. Protection from Spiritual Drowsiness • Watchfulness guards against the drift into sin or lethargy (1 Thessalonians 5:6). 4. Encouragement toward Holiness • Expecting His arrival motivates pure living: “Since all these things are to be destroyed, what kind of people ought you to be…holy and godly.” (2 Peter 3:11) 5. Assurance of Reward • Faithful servants share the master’s joy (Luke 12:37; Revelation 22:12). Living in Expectation Every Day • Start each day conscious that it could be the day of His appearing. • Keep short accounts with God—confess sin quickly (1 John 1:9). • Stay active in kingdom service; vigilance is not passive but engaged (James 2:17). • Nurture hope through Scripture and fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). Supporting Scriptures • Matthew 24:42—“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” • Luke 12:35-37—servants whose lamps are burning receive the master’s blessing. • 1 Thessalonians 5:6—“So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober.” • Revelation 3:3—failure to watch brings unexpected visitation. Practical Steps to Stay Alert • Daily Bible intake—fuel for discernment. • Persistent prayer—maintains spiritual sensitivity (Colossians 4:2). • Regular self-examination—aligning heart, motives, priorities (Psalm 139:23-24). • Active evangelism—living like the harvest is urgent (John 4:35). The Lord’s admonition in Mark 13:35 is both warning and invitation. Because His return is certain yet unscheduled, vigilance becomes a joyful, disciplined lifestyle—one that honors the Master and prepares us to welcome Him at any hour. |
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