WAITING FOR CHRIST’S RETURN

Sunday (12/15), gather with your church family as we continue studying Matthew’s Gospel (25:1-13).

The last days. It is a subject that can spark debate in any setting, including a discussion on the recent presidential election. There are many opinions, positions, and firmly held beliefs. The controversy is such that many would be happy not to discuss it.

But to avoid it, one misses out on what Paul called “the blessed hope.” When one understands that Jesus told His disciples enough detail about the last days to prepare them, not scare them, knowing He will return fills the believer's heart with hope.

How important is Jesus’ teaching about the Second Coming? The answer is simple: It’s His longest recorded sermon.“The Parable of the Ten Virgins” is the fifth of six parables in the passage (Matt 24:32-25:30). He shared one parable after the other, so emphasize how important it is to be prepared for His return.

Even though many signs point to the season of Jesus’ return, no one knows the day or the hour, and that is why His coming will be like a thief in the night to those unprepared.

When writing to the church, Paul said, “But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober” (1 Th 5:4-6).

Another reason for all the parables is they are illustrations from everyday life. Simple stories that point to the truth of His coming so that His followers can understand them and share them with others. By doing so, one can encourage the saint and warn the sinner.

May Jesus’ teaching fill our hearts with the knowledge of His word, hearts prepared to receive Him, hearts to share the gospel with anyone who will listen, and hearts to keep our eyes and affections open to His imminent return.

There are several worship opportunities: on-campus (10:00 a.m.), drive-in church (92.1fm), and online (Facebook and YouTube: Calvary Inverness)

Maranatha,

Pastor