Second Coming
The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing spiritual signs and remaining steadfast in faith as we await the Second Coming of Christ.
John Follette emphasizes that believers should not rely on external signs for the Second Coming but instead focus on spiritual signs, such as when the cup of iniquity is full and when the Bride has made herself ready. He highlights the urgency of being prepared for Christ's return, likening it to a sudden flash rather than a specific time frame, and warns against losing the 'crown' of Truth to distractions or deceptions.
Text
In regard to the Second Coming, the believer does not need the external signs such as the Jew returning to Israel. Those are for the ones who need to be aroused by great signs -- but the believer is looking for these spiritual signs:
1. When the cup of iniquity is full. (That's the negative sign.)
2. When the Bride has made herself ready. (That's the positive sign.)
"Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown." (Rev. 3:11) "I come quickly" -- not in the sense of time, but in the manner -- like a flash; "That no man take thy crown" -- in the sense of a bird snatching the seed (Truth) as in the parable of the sower; (Mark 4:4) "Hold fast the Truth-- keep and guard My Word and message; hold; grasp the deposit of Truth, for it relates to a crown ("That no man take thy crown").
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Understanding the signs of the Second Coming - Distinction between external and spiritual signs
- II points: - The cup of iniquity as a negative sign - The readiness of the Bride as a positive sign
- III points: - The urgency of holding fast to the Truth - The significance of guarding one's spiritual crown
- IV points: - The nature of Christ's return - The importance of spiritual vigilance
Key Quotes
“Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” — John Follette
“I come quickly -- not in the sense of time, but in the manner -- like a flash.” — John Follette
“Hold fast the Truth-- keep and guard My Word and message.” — John Follette
Application Points
- Focus on spiritual readiness by engaging in prayer and study of God's Word.
- Be vigilant against distractions that may lead you away from the Truth.
- Encourage others in their faith journey to help them guard their spiritual crowns.