READINESS FOR THE LORD'S COMING

Sermonette on 17 November 2024AD

Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Living Bread Congregation-Tantra Hill

THEME: READINESS FOR THE LORD'S COMING

BIBLE READINGS

Daniel 12:1-3, Hebrews 10:11-25, and Mark 13:1-8

Introduction

 

The theme for our reflection is "Readiness for the Lord's Coming." The Bible consistently emphasizes the reality of Christ's return and the call for believers to live in anticipation of that great day. The question we are faced with is this: *Are we ready?* Our Scripture passages today, Daniel 12:1-3, Hebrews 10:11-25, and Mark 13:1-8, invite us to explore what it means to be prepared for the Lord’s return, how we should live in light of this truth, and how these ancient words still speak to us in our 21st-century context.

 

1. STANDING FIRM IN TROUBLING TIMES (DANIEL 12:1-3)

 

Daniel 12:1-3 paints a picture of a time of great distress, one unlike any the world has seen before. The prophet Daniel speaks of a period of turmoil and suffering, yet he also provides a word of hope: "At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise." Despite the coming trials, those whose names are found in the book of life will be delivered. In this passage, we also see the promise of resurrection some to everlasting life, others to shame.

 

This ancient prophecy has a modern-day relevance. We live in a world where natural disasters, wars, and political unrest are ever-present realities. In the 21st century, believers are not exempt from the pressures of a turbulent world. Yet, the call remains for us to stand firm, knowing that God’s deliverance is certain. Readiness for the Lord’s coming involves cultivating a life of perseverance and hope, even in the midst of trials. Our faith should not be shaken by the turmoil around us but should deepen as we anticipate the fulfillment of God’s promises.

 

2. ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER IN FAITH (HEBREWS 10:11-25)

 

In Hebrews 10:11-25, the writer emphasizes the finality and sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice. Unlike the repeated offerings of the Old Testament priests, Jesus' sacrifice was once and for all. This assurance is meant to embolden us as we "draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings" (v. 22). The passage encourages us to hold unswervingly to the hope we profess because "He who promised is faithful."

 

One of the key instructions in this passage is to encourage one another "not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (v. 25). In a 21st-century context, with the rise of individualism and the challenges brought by technology, we might be tempted to isolate ourselves or treat faith as a private affair. However, readiness for the Lord’s coming involves intentional community and mutual encouragement. We need each other to stay strong in faith, to remind one another of the hope we have in Christ, and to live out our faith through acts of love and service.

 

3. DISCERNING THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES (MARK 13:1-8)

 

In Mark 13:1-8, Jesus speaks of the signs of the end times wars, rumors of wars, earthquakes, and famines. He warns the disciples not to be alarmed or misled by these events, for they are only the beginning of birth pains. The key takeaway from this passage is vigilance and discernment. Jesus calls His followers to be alert, to understand the times, and to remain steadfast.

 

In today’s world, we are constantly bombarded with information, predictions, and theories about the end times. News cycles, social media, and sensational reports can easily create anxiety and confusion. But readiness for the Lord’s coming calls for a different response. Instead of being overwhelmed or fearful, we are called to stay rooted in God’s Word, discerning the truth amidst the noise. Jesus’ instructions are clear: do not be deceived, and do not be afraid. This kind of spiritual vigilance is crucial for the 21st-century believer who faces many distractions and competing narratives.

 

APPLICATION

HOW TO BE READY FOR THE LORD’S COMING TODAY

 

1. STAY GROUNDED IN SCRIPTURE AND PRAYER: In a world filled with uncertainty, our anchor is God’s unchanging Word. Spend time daily in Scripture and in prayer, seeking to understand God's will and preparing your heart for His return. This spiritual discipline is the foundation of readiness.

 

2. LIVE A LIFE OF HOLINESS AND INTEGRITY: Readiness for the Lord's coming means living a life that honors Him. Our choices, actions, and words should reflect the character of Christ. We are called to be "the light of the world" in our workplaces, schools, and communities.

 

3. ENGAGE IN COMMUNITY: Encourage and be encouraged by fellow believers. Do not neglect gathering together for worship, Bible study, and fellowship. The Church is the body of Christ, and we grow stronger in faith when we support each other. In the 21st century, this might also mean making the most of technology to stay connected and uplift one another in times when physical gatherings are not possible.

 

4. SHARE THE GOSPEL BOLDLY: The reality of Christ’s return should inspire us to share the hope of the Gospel with urgency. In a society where many are searching for answers in all the wrong places, let us point them to the One who holds the future. Whether through personal conversations, social media, or involvement in community outreach, be a witness to the hope found in Jesus.

 

5. DEVELOP A DISCERNING HEART: Equip yourself to discern the times. Not every event or crisis is an indication of the end, but every moment is an opportunity to grow closer to God. Let your discernment be guided by Scripture, not sensationalism. Keep your eyes on Jesus and be vigilant in prayer, always asking for wisdom and understanding.

 

6. CULTIVATE A SPIRIT OF READINESS AND EXPECTANCY: Live each day as if the Lord’s return could be today. This doesn’t mean neglecting your daily responsibilities, but it does mean living with purpose, urgency, and anticipation. Allow the hope of Christ’s return to shape your decisions and priorities.

 

CONCLUSION

 

Readiness for the Lord’s coming is not just about waiting; it’s about living actively and purposefully. Daniel’s prophecy of perseverance, the exhortation to communal faithfulness in Hebrews, and Jesus’ call to vigilance in Mark all remind us that readiness involves a steadfast faith, a hopeful community, and a discerning spirit. In the 21st century, let us be people who embody these truths, standing firm amidst challenges, encouraging one another, and remaining alert to the signs of God’s work around us. May we live each day with the expectation of His return, fully prepared and fully surrendered to His will.

 Amen.

Let's Pray 

 

APOSTLE CREED