Christ Will Come Again
Christ's return is imminent, and we must prepare by trusting in God's promises and living a life of faith and obedience.
Clement of Rome emphasizes the compassionate and loving nature of the Father towards those who fear Him, urging believers to approach Him with simplicity and humility to receive His abundant blessings. He warns against being double-minded or prideful in the face of God's gifts, quoting the woes of those who doubt and grow old without experiencing His promises. Using the analogy of a tree's growth stages, he illustrates the gradual but sure process of spiritual maturity and fruit-bearing in believers, highlighting the importance of patience and perseverance. Clement also reminds his audience of the imminent fulfillment of God's will, citing Scriptures that speak of the Lord's sudden coming to His temple, urging readiness and anticipation.
Text
The all-merciful and beneficent Father has bowels [of compassion] towards those who fear Him, and kindly and lovingly bestows His favours upon those who come to Him with a simple mind. So let us not be double-minded; neither let our soul be lifted up on account of His exceedingly great and glorious gifts. Far from us be that which is written, "Wretched are they who are of a double mind, and of a doubting heart; who say, These things we have heard even in the times of our fathers; but, behold, we have grown old, and none of them has happened to us.."
You foolish ones! compare yourselves to a tree: take [for instance] the vine. First of all, it sheds its leaves, then it buds, next it puts forth leaves, and then it flowers; after that comes the sour grape, and then follows the ripened fruit. You perceive how in a little time the fruit of a tree comes to maturity.
Of a truth, soon and suddenly shall His will be accomplished, as the Scripture also bears witness, saying, "Speedily will He come, and will not tarry;" and, "The Lord shall suddenly come to His temple, even the Holy One, for whom you look."
Sermon Outline
- The Nature of God's Mercy
- The Dangers of Double-Mindedness
- The Imminence of Christ's Return
- The suddenness of God's will being accomplished
- The importance of being prepared for Christ's return
Key Quotes
“You foolish ones! compare yourselves to a tree: take [for instance] the vine.” — Clement of Rome
“Speedily will He come, and will not tarry;” — Clement of Rome
“The Lord shall suddenly come to His temple, even the Holy One, for whom you look.” — Clement of Rome
Application Points
- We should not be double-minded, but rather trust in God's promises and live a life of faith and obedience.
- We should be prepared for Christ's return by living a life that is pleasing to God.
- We should trust in God's timing and not be uncertain or wavering in our faith.