The End of All Things Is NearIntroduction: Yes, indeed, the end is near! The end of the Christian age is near. It was near in the first century and it’s near in the twenty-first as well. Because this is true, how should we act? Should we make more specific predictions about the coming of Christ? Should we go hide in a cave? We should do exactly what the apostle Peter told his first century readers to do. Text: I Peter 4:7 Body: I. Be Serious· The New Testament repeatedly informs us that Jesus absolutely will return; but not to set up an earthly kingdom in Jerusalem. He will return to judge the world. (Matthew 25:31-33) · Every believer should fix this mind on that great event. Each day it gets nearer. (Romans 13:11-14) · “Serious” means that we are to be of a sober and sane mind, to reason and think properly, to act sensibly. We are to learn as if sitting at Jesus’ feet. (Mark 5:15, Romans 12:3) · We must have the ability to see things clearly, not be drunk on things of this world. (I Peter 5:4-8) II. Be Watchful· One must be alert for the coming of Christ, be ever vigilant. (Luke 12:35-37) Do not let your guard down. · This should urge all to live in anticipation of the end. (II Peter 3:11-12) · To be alert, one must be self-controlled and disciplined. The parable of the ten virgins shows the necessity of being prepared. (Matthew 25:1-13) · We must exercise self-restraint; not let emotions rule. We must not be thrown off balance. (II Thessalonians 3:10-12) III. Be Prayerful· Our prayers should also involve the anticipation of Christ’s coming. (Mark 14:37-38) · Set focus on God and exhibit an attitude of worship. Be “devoted to prayer.” (Romans 12:12) · Satan doesn’t want us to pray. Prayer is powerful. (James 5:16, Ephesians 5:18) Conclusion: The end is truly coming. Jesus is coming as a thief in the night. Be serious, be watchful, and be prayerful. Bobby Stafford March 10, 2013
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