Matthew 24.36-25.13
But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. 24.36
Every few years a well-meaning Christian leader claims to have ‘seen the signs’ and makes a declaration of Jesus’ return. Every time, the date and time passes, the followers are bewildered, and the signs are returned to be reread for the next prophecy. Jesus wants us to know that the day and time is not our concern (He says He doesn’t even know). Our lives are not to figure God out, but to prepare ourselves for Him. It’s not about getting ourselves ready for a moment, but being transformed from the inside out so that our lives are always in a state of readiness. Many believe that they can do what they want now, and that they will simply get serious about their faith later, but Jesus warns them: you don’t know that there will be a later. A faithful life begins now.
- What part of the text or sermon had the greatest impact on you? Where were you most encouraged, intrigued, challenged?
- How does Jesus tell us to prepare for His coming?
- How do Jesus’ comments about not knowing the day or the hour fit with His teaching about seeing the signs of the end?
- Read Revelation 16.15, 19.7-8. How does the practice of repentance and obedience keep us clothed in white?
- In what ways does the impending return of Christ create a sense of urgency in us? In what ways should it bring us peace?