Preparedness for God's revelation is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the necessity for individuals and communities to be spiritually and morally ready to receive divine truth and guidance. This concept underscores the importance of vigilance, faith, and obedience in anticipation of God's communication.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding preparedness for God's revelation. In Exodus 19:10-11, God instructs Moses to consecrate the people of Israel and have them wash their clothes in preparation for His appearance on Mount Sinai: "The LORD also said to Moses, 'Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow. They must wash their clothes and be ready by the third day, for on the third day the LORD will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people.'" This passage highlights the need for physical and spiritual purification as a prerequisite for encountering God.

The prophets also emphasize readiness for divine revelation. In Amos 4:12, the prophet warns Israel to prepare to meet their God: "Therefore, this is what I will do to you, O Israel, and since I will do this to you, prepare to meet your God, O Israel!" This call to preparedness is a reminder of the seriousness with which one must approach the divine.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues this theme, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), Jesus illustrates the importance of being prepared for the coming of the Kingdom of Heaven. The wise virgins, who brought extra oil for their lamps, were ready when the bridegroom arrived, while the foolish ones were not. Jesus concludes, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (Matthew 25:13).

The apostle Paul also speaks to the necessity of readiness in 1 Thessalonians 5:6: "So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober." Here, Paul encourages believers to maintain spiritual alertness and moral integrity as they await the return of Christ.

Spiritual Disciplines and Readiness

Preparedness for God's revelation involves engaging in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting, and studying Scripture. In 2 Timothy 2:15, Paul advises Timothy, "Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth." This exhortation underscores the importance of diligent study and application of God's Word as a means of preparation.

Prayer is another critical component of readiness. In Luke 21:36, Jesus instructs His disciples, "But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all that is about to happen, and to stand before the Son of Man." Prayer fosters a continual state of spiritual alertness and dependence on God.

Moral and Ethical Preparedness

Moral and ethical living is integral to being prepared for God's revelation. In 1 Peter 1:13-16, believers are called to holiness: "Therefore prepare your minds for action. Be sober-minded; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not conform to the passions of your former ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do." This passage links moral conduct with readiness for divine revelation.

Community and Corporate Readiness

The Bible also emphasizes the role of the community in preparing for God's revelation. In Acts 2, the early church is depicted as a community devoted to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. This communal life fosters an environment conducive to receiving and responding to God's revelation.

In summary, preparedness for God's revelation is a multifaceted concept involving spiritual vigilance, moral integrity, and communal engagement. It is a call to live in a state of readiness, anticipating God's guidance and responding faithfully to His truth.