Preparedness for Christ's Return
Preparedness for Christ's Return5
Luke 18:8
By Chuck Smith0LUK 18:8JAS 2:14Chuck Smith emphasizes the urgency of being prepared for the return of Jesus, reminding believers that His coming is imminent and will mark the end of earthly life and opportunities. He poses a critical question: when Jesus returns, will He find faith on the earth? Smith challenges the congregation to reflect on their faith and actions, highlighting that true faith is evidenced by works, as illustrated in James 2:14-20. He stresses that while salvation is not earned by works, genuine belief should naturally lead to active service for God.
Praise and the Ten Virgins ("Well Done, Thou Good and Faithful Servant" or "I Never Knew You")
By Hans R. Waldvogel0PSA 40:3MAT 25:1MAT 25:21HEB 11:24Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the significance of praise and the parable of the ten virgins, urging believers to be wise and prepared for the coming of the Lord. He highlights the importance of having a 'new song' in our hearts, which reflects our relationship with God and our readiness to enter into His presence. Waldvogel contrasts the wise virgins, who are prepared and enter the marriage supper of the Lamb, with the foolish ones who are left behind, stressing the need for genuine faith and the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He calls for a deeper commitment to God, encouraging believers to choose affliction with the people of God over the fleeting pleasures of sin. Ultimately, he reminds us that our actions will determine whether we hear 'Well done, thou good and faithful servant' or 'I never knew you.'
River of Destiny Church - Part 1
By Brian Guerin335:38MAT 22:37MAT 25:1Brian Guerin emphasizes the vital importance of deep intimacy with the Lord as the foundation of life, urging believers to prioritize loving God above all else. He reflects on the parable of the ten bridesmaids from Matthew 25, highlighting the necessity of having extra oil for their lamps, which symbolizes the intimate relationship with Jesus that sustains believers through dark times. Guerin warns against complacency and encourages the church to be wise and prepared, as the return of the bridegroom is imminent. He stresses that true intimacy with God cannot be shared or borrowed, but must be cultivated personally in the secret place. Ultimately, he calls for a shift in focus towards a deeper relationship with Christ, as this will be crucial in the last hour of the church.
2 Peter 3:11
By John Gill0MAT 24:42ROM 12:1EPH 5:15COL 3:21TH 5:62TI 4:7TIT 2:12HEB 12:141PE 1:152PE 3:11John Gill emphasizes the certainty of the dissolution of all things as described in 2 Peter 3:11, urging believers to reflect on their conduct in light of this truth. He contrasts the behavior of scoffers and profane sinners with that of faithful Christians, who should be vigilant and engaged in holy living. Gill calls for a life marked by grace, religious duties, and a focus on godliness, encouraging believers to be prepared for the Lord's return by living soberly and righteously. The sermon serves as a reminder to guard against worldly distractions and to maintain a posture of readiness and devotion.
Matthew 24 and 25
By John Nelson Darby0ISA 6:9HOS 5:15MAT 23:37MAT 24:14MAT 25:1JHN 12:40ACT 28:26John Nelson Darby emphasizes the prophetic nature of Matthew 24 and 25, detailing Jesus' ministry as a prophet and the implications of His rejection by the Jewish people. He explains how these chapters serve as a warning and a testimony of God's character and purpose, addressing the Jewish remnant and the future of the Gentiles. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the context of prophecy, the call to faithfulness, and the consequences of apostasy. He concludes with a call for believers to watch and wait for Christ's return, echoing the urgency of being prepared for His coming.