Anticipating the Glorious Manifestation of Christ
Introduction:
We hold a blessed hope—the expectation of the glorious manifestation of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Throughout Scripture, we are reminded of His promise to return, and as His disciples, we eagerly anticipate that day. Today, we will explore the significance of Christ's return, the necessity of constant preparation, and the assurance of His glorious manifestation. Let us delve into God's Word and be encouraged to live in anticipation of Christ's coming.
-- Ads --
1: The Promise of Christ's Return (John 14:3)
Our faith is anchored in the promise of Christ's return. In John 14:3, Jesus Himself assures us, "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also." This promise fills our hearts with hope and expectation, knowing that one day, we will be reunited with our Lord in His glorious presence.
2: The Unknown Day and Hour (Matthew 24:36)
While we eagerly anticipate Christ's return, Scripture also reminds us that the exact timing is known only to the Father. Matthew 24:36 states, "But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only." This uncertainty underscores the importance of living in a constant state of readiness and vigilance.
3: The Purpose of Christ's Return (Revelation 22:12)
Christ's return holds profound significance for believers and non-believers alike. Revelation 22:12 declares, "Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done." His return will bring about judgment and reward, fulfilling God's righteous purposes and bringing final redemption to His people.
4: Constant Preparation for the Return of Christ (Matthew 24:44)
In light of the uncertainty surrounding the timing of Christ's return, we are called to live lives of constant readiness and preparation. Matthew 24:44 admonishes us, "Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect." Our daily walk with Christ should reflect this readiness, characterized by faithfulness, obedience, and watchfulness.
-- Ads --
5: The Sign of the Times (Matthew 24:33)
Jesus Himself provided signs to indicate the nearness of His return. Matthew 24:33 states, "So also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the very gates." As we observe the signs of the times—both in Scripture and in the world around us—we are reminded of the imminence of Christ's return and the urgency of our response.
6: The Call to Holiness and Spiritual Preparation (1 Peter 1:15-16)
In anticipation of Christ's return, we are called to lives of holiness and spiritual preparation. 1 Peter 1:15-16 exhorts us, "But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'" Our readiness for Christ's return is intimately tied to our pursuit of holiness and conformity to His image.
7: The Expectation of the Glorious Manifestation of Christ (Titus 2:13)
As believers, we eagerly anticipate the glorious manifestation of Christ. Titus 2:13 encourages us to live in eager expectation, "waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ." This anticipation fuels our faith and inspires us to live with purpose and anticipation.
8: The Glorious Encounter of Believers with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)
One of the most cherished promises of Christ's return is the glorious encounter believers will have with the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 describes this momentous event, "For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."
9: The Sudden Coming of Christ as a Thief in the Night (1 Thessalonians 5:2)
While we eagerly anticipate Christ's return, Scripture also warns us of its suddenness. 1 Thessalonians 5:2 compares His coming to that of a thief in the night, emphasizing the need for spiritual watchfulness and readiness. As such, we must be vigilant and prepared at all times.
10: The Promise of a New Earth and New Heavens (Revelation 21:1)
Finally, Christ's return heralds the promise of a new heaven and a new earth. Revelation 21:1 declares, "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more." This ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan brings hope and assurance to believers, as we eagerly anticipate the restoration and renewal of all things.
- Sermon on Breakthrough in the Battle with Christ
- Sermon on Abigail: A Portrait of Wisdom, Courage, and Virtue 1 Samuel 25:3
- Sermon on Opportunity and Urgency of Responding to Jesus' Invitation
Conclusion:
As we conclude, let us be reminded of the blessed hope we have in the glorious manifestation of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His return holds profound significance for believers, serving as the culmination of God's redemptive plan and the fulfillment of His promises. As we eagerly anticipate this momentous event, may we live lives of constant readiness, holiness, and expectation, knowing that our citizenship is in heaven, from which we await our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. May we be found faithful and watchful, ready to meet Him when He comes.
