The term "Last Days" in Scripture has often been misunderstood as referring only to the final moments before Christ's return. However, the Bible teaches that the Last Days began at Pentecost and continue until Christ's Second Coming. This broader understanding carries significant implications for how we view both current times and the Gospel message itself. The Second Coming is not merely a motivational addendum to evangelism but rather forms an essential part of the Gospel proclamation, as Christ returns not only as Saviour but as Judge of all.
Salvation extends far beyond the initial moment of conversion or the sinner's prayer. A good representation encompasses both Jesus' ministry to the lost, as seen in His encounter with Zacchaeus, with its challenge for a change of ways and example of change in behaviour. Jesus’ call is not just to conversion but also for the new believer to pursue godly perfection. The Lord's work of salvation includes not only forgiveness of sins but also the ongoing transformation of the believer's character through sanctification, ultimately looking forward to Christ's return. This broader understanding of salvation helps explain why many Christians struggle with living the Christian life after conversion, when their new salvation needs time to find help and hope through the Holy Spirit's sanctifying work.
The Kingdom of Heaven is not merely about going to Heaven when we die, but also about living under God's rule now. There are three stages of salvation: justification (becoming a Christian), sanctification (growing in holiness), and glorification (being perfected in Heaven). Many believers focus solely on justification but neglect sanctification. This neglect can lead to unpreparedness for Christ's return or our own death. We must actively pursue spiritual growth, eagerly awaiting His return. The delay in Christ's coming is a grace period for us to deepen our relationship with Him. Our goal should be to know more intimately, not just to secure a place in Heaven.
Christ's return is imminent, though the exact time is unknown. As Christians, we must remain vigilant and spiritually prepared. This involves utilising the 'means of grace' - practices like Bible reading, prayer, church attendance, and sharing the Gospel - to stay filled with the Holy Spirit. Just as the wise virgins in Jesus' parable had enough oil for their lamps, we too must be 'oiled up' spiritually. Our goal should be to walk properly 'as in the daytime', representing Christ well right up to when He returns.
Jesus considers the Church His current home on Earth, but He has gone to prepare a place for believers in Heaven. At the Second Coming, Christ will return to collect His followers - both the dead and the living - in an event known as the Rapture. We will then be eternally united with Him in our heavenly home. This promise offers great comfort and hope, but it also emphasises the urgency of ensuring a personal relationship with Jesus now, before His return. The Church isn't just a building or tradition, but a family of those who do the Father's will and know Christ personally.
The Christian Gospel, extends beyond the birth, death, and Resurrection of Christ to also include His ascension, coronation and promised Second Coming. It highlights the essential belief in Jesus's physical return to fulfil prophecies and bring ultimate judgement and salvation. With references from Acts and Matthew, the sermon reinforces the certainty of the message about the public nature of Christ's return, urging believers to remain vigilant and faithful.
This sermon explores the human feeling of being at home in a new place. It draws parallels between these experiences and the Christian journey towards finding true rest and belongingness in Christ. Highlighting key Bible passages, the sermon emphasises Jesus’ preparation of resting places in heaven and His personal return to collect His followers. It assures believers that despite earthly disorientation, their ultimate home is with Jesus, who has made all necessary preparations for their eternal comfort and joy.
"It really raises a question about the longevity of people who are Christians and serving the Lord as to how long they last the distance before something gets them. And it raises the question about can someone who once was blessed of God be a Christian? And can someone who once was blessed of God end up being under his severe curse of some sort?"