The End of All Things Is Near

Introduction:

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