Come, Lord Jesus
Santosh Poonen exhorts believers to live with an eternal perspective, eagerly awaiting Jesus' return and pressing on to greater spiritual heights by abiding in Christ and seeking heavenly things.
This sermon reflects on the speaker's memories and experiences at CFC, emphasizing the unchanging essence of standing for truth. It delves into the theme of reaching greater heights spiritually, urging listeners to abide in God's unchanging truths and fix their eyes on Jesus to press on towards perfection. The message highlights the importance of being ready for Christ's return, focusing on eternity and seeking the things above while being prepared for His imminent coming.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Unchanging Essence of Faith
- Cherishing early memories of church and fellowship
- The importance of holding to timeless biblical truths
- Sensing God's presence in the church community
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II. Living with an Eternal Perspective
- Pressing on to spiritual perfection by abiding in Christ
- Recognizing that eternity is what truly matters
- Using biblical examples like David and John to focus on eternity
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III. Being Ready for Jesus’ Return
- The metaphor of waiting for the train as readiness for Christ
- Living with the mindset ‘If the Lord wills’ in all plans
- The urgency of spiritual readiness compared to the devil’s awareness
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IV. The Hope and Expectation of Christ’s Coming
- Encouragement to keep seeking heavenly things
- The promise of being revealed with Christ in glory
- Closing with the prayerful cry: ‘Come, Lord Jesus’
Key Quotes
“When I walk into that building, I feel like I don't deserve to be here. I look around at the hunger and the thirst on the faces of the brothers and sisters there.” — Santosh Poonen
“Are you looking for the train? Is your heart leaning around the corner to see is Jesus coming? That's all I'm looking for.” — Santosh Poonen
“Yes, I am coming quickly. I'm coming soon. And the answer of everyone who has really understood everything in this book will be even so. Yes. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” — Santosh Poonen
Application Points
- Live each day with the mindset that Jesus could return at any moment, prioritizing spiritual readiness.
- Focus your heart and mind on eternal things rather than temporary earthly distractions.
- Abide in the truths of Scripture consistently to deepen your relationship with Christ and grow spiritually.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'press on to perfection'?
It means to continually grow spiritually by abiding in Christ and focusing on eternal truths rather than temporary earthly things.
Why is the metaphor of waiting for a train used?
The train represents Jesus’ return, emphasizing the need to be ready at all times with a heart eager and watchful for His coming.
How can believers maintain an eternal perspective in daily life?
By setting their minds on things above, living with the awareness that earthly life is temporary, and prioritizing their relationship with Christ.
What is the significance of the phrase 'Come, Lord Jesus'?
It is a heartfelt prayer expressing the believer’s longing for Christ’s return and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
How does the devil’s readiness for Christ’s return challenge Christians?
It serves as a convicting reminder that believers should be more prepared and eager for Jesus’ return than even the adversary.