Many times in history this passage of scripture, in which Jesus highlighted the conditions of the time of His second coming, has been relevant to that era. This scripture has a “now ... and not yet” sense about it. Therefore, these verses are very current to our day. We are living in an unusual time of turmoil and uncertainty. Usually people will respond with fear, anxiety, paralysis (stopping what they are doing), suspicion, and even blaming others. Jesus said that in the middle of all the turmoil “see that you are not troubled.”
In Luke 24:36 – 39 Jesus appeared to the disciples after He had risen from the dead. They were terrified. He questioned their fear when He was present with them. If we are fearful is it because we do not value His presence with us? Or maybe we fail to realize that Christians can experience trouble and even persecution. How is our “spiritual composure” during trying times? Spiritual composure comes from our confidence in God’s promises for us. We also realize that heaven will be better than this life. We are of great value to God. If we have been unwise in our decisions and actions (i.e. – motivated by greed) the pattern of scripture is to repent, turn to God, obey Him, and trust in Him. If we have financial trouble and are in a hole, stop digging. If we are filled with anxiety, we need to trust God and begin to worship Him.
Two principles for coping with difficult times:
1. See that you are not troubled.
2. Take the opportunities we have NOW.
Preach the Gospel of the Kingdom. We are in a season of spiritual opportunity brought about by instability and insecurity in the world. When the props of independence are removed, people often ask questions. It is time for “active cooperation with God in the redemption of society at every level.” (Michael Green)
2 Peter 3:1 – 14 states that the return of Jesus is being delayed because of God’s patience.
Return to the Lord and become pure and holy. We must examine ourselves.Reconcile marriages. Whenever a marriage fails there will be spiritual fall out.Live the faith principles of a disciple of Christ: being convinced of the truth by reading His Word, and surrendering our finances as we offer our tithes.Build healthy relationships with Christians by being in a small group.Invite people to hear our story, to join us at church, etc.
Discussion Points
- Are you ready for the End Times?
- How’s your prayer life?
- Are you a witness of Jesus?
- Do you regularly study the Word?
- Do you walk in the Spirit daily?
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