Are You Ready? What It Means to Live Expectantly for Jesus' Return
The Bible’s final book, Revelation, invites us into a vivid tapestry of visions and symbols. Yet, its central message is clear: Jesus is coming back. This promise isn’t meant to confuse or obscure but to ignite an urgent call to action for all who follow Him.
A Reliable Word for an Unchanging Promise
Revelation concludes with a simple yet profound statement: God’s words are trustworthy. The reliability of Scripture is a cornerstone of Christian faith. When Jesus declares, “Behold, I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:7), this isn’t merely a hopeful phrase—it’s a trustworthy promise that demands our belief and response.
If you doubt the Word of God, you’re less likely to obey it. But when you trust His promises, you’ll strive to live by them.
What Does “I Am Coming Soon” Really Mean?
The phrase “I am coming soon” appears multiple times in Revelation 22, underscoring its importance. Yet some may wonder, “It’s been over 2,000 years—how is this soon?”
The Greek word for “soon” (tachy) conveys suddenness rather than immediacy. It points to an event that will happen quickly and unexpectedly. Jesus Himself likened His return to a thief in the night, catching many off guard (Matthew 24:42-44). The emphasis is not on when He will come but on how.
Paul echoes this in 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3, warning believers to stay awake and ready. Life may feel ordinary now, but Jesus’ return will interrupt it like lightning piercing a calm sky. Are you ready for that moment?
Living as a Bride Prepared
The Bible often portrays the Church as the bride of Christ, awaiting her bridegroom. This beautiful metaphor reminds us of the covenant relationship we have with Jesus. Just as a bride in ancient times wore a veil to signify her commitment, believers are called to live set apart, demonstrating their readiness and faithfulness.
Jesus’ description of a bridegroom preparing a place for his bride paints a powerful picture. In John 14:2-3, He promises, “I am going to prepare a place for you... I will come back and take you to be with me.” This preparation mirrors the Jewish custom where a groom would build a home for his bride under his father’s guidance. Only when the father declared it ready would the groom retrieve his bride.
In the same way, Jesus is preparing a place for us, waiting for the Father’s signal to return. This delay isn’t procrastination—it’s preparation, ensuring everything is perfect for His bride. And just as the bride must remain vigilant and faithful, we, too, are called to live in readiness.
Urgency in Everyday Faith
The message of Jesus’ return carries a sense of urgency. It challenges believers to prioritize their relationship with Christ and live distinctively. What does this look like?
Stay Alert: Watch for signs of His coming while staying rooted in Scripture and prayer. Jesus said, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (Matthew 24:42).
Remain Faithful: Like the bride wearing her veil, live in a way that reflects your commitment to Christ. Avoid the distractions of sin and worldly temptations.
Be Prepared to Share: Readiness isn’t only personal. Share the hope of Christ’s return with others, encouraging them to embrace the Gospel.
Hope Anchored in His Return
The return of Christ isn’t a message of fear—it’s one of hope. For believers, it signals the ultimate reunion with our Savior and the fulfillment of God’s plan. Knowing this gives us the courage to endure challenges and live with eternal purpose.
Jesus’ promise, “I am coming soon,” reminds us that this life is temporary. It invites us to lift our eyes from the distractions of the moment and focus on the glory to come.
Conclusion
Are you ready for Jesus’ return? This question isn’t about predicting dates or deciphering symbols—it’s about your heart. Are you living in a way that reflects your love and anticipation for Christ? If not, now is the time to align your life with His Word.
Jesus’ return will be sudden and swift, just as He promised. Whether it happens in your lifetime or beyond, the call remains the same: be ready. Live with urgency, faithfulness, and hope, knowing that the Bridegroom is coming for His bride.
This blog is based on the message shared by Senior Pastor Dr. Roger Patterson on Sunday November 24, 2024. Check out the full message below!
A Reliable Word for an Unchanging Promise
Revelation concludes with a simple yet profound statement: God’s words are trustworthy. The reliability of Scripture is a cornerstone of Christian faith. When Jesus declares, “Behold, I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:7), this isn’t merely a hopeful phrase—it’s a trustworthy promise that demands our belief and response.
If you doubt the Word of God, you’re less likely to obey it. But when you trust His promises, you’ll strive to live by them.
What Does “I Am Coming Soon” Really Mean?
The phrase “I am coming soon” appears multiple times in Revelation 22, underscoring its importance. Yet some may wonder, “It’s been over 2,000 years—how is this soon?”
The Greek word for “soon” (tachy) conveys suddenness rather than immediacy. It points to an event that will happen quickly and unexpectedly. Jesus Himself likened His return to a thief in the night, catching many off guard (Matthew 24:42-44). The emphasis is not on when He will come but on how.
Paul echoes this in 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3, warning believers to stay awake and ready. Life may feel ordinary now, but Jesus’ return will interrupt it like lightning piercing a calm sky. Are you ready for that moment?
Living as a Bride Prepared
The Bible often portrays the Church as the bride of Christ, awaiting her bridegroom. This beautiful metaphor reminds us of the covenant relationship we have with Jesus. Just as a bride in ancient times wore a veil to signify her commitment, believers are called to live set apart, demonstrating their readiness and faithfulness.
Jesus’ description of a bridegroom preparing a place for his bride paints a powerful picture. In John 14:2-3, He promises, “I am going to prepare a place for you... I will come back and take you to be with me.” This preparation mirrors the Jewish custom where a groom would build a home for his bride under his father’s guidance. Only when the father declared it ready would the groom retrieve his bride.
In the same way, Jesus is preparing a place for us, waiting for the Father’s signal to return. This delay isn’t procrastination—it’s preparation, ensuring everything is perfect for His bride. And just as the bride must remain vigilant and faithful, we, too, are called to live in readiness.
Urgency in Everyday Faith
The message of Jesus’ return carries a sense of urgency. It challenges believers to prioritize their relationship with Christ and live distinctively. What does this look like?
Stay Alert: Watch for signs of His coming while staying rooted in Scripture and prayer. Jesus said, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (Matthew 24:42).
Remain Faithful: Like the bride wearing her veil, live in a way that reflects your commitment to Christ. Avoid the distractions of sin and worldly temptations.
Be Prepared to Share: Readiness isn’t only personal. Share the hope of Christ’s return with others, encouraging them to embrace the Gospel.
Hope Anchored in His Return
The return of Christ isn’t a message of fear—it’s one of hope. For believers, it signals the ultimate reunion with our Savior and the fulfillment of God’s plan. Knowing this gives us the courage to endure challenges and live with eternal purpose.
Jesus’ promise, “I am coming soon,” reminds us that this life is temporary. It invites us to lift our eyes from the distractions of the moment and focus on the glory to come.
Conclusion
Are you ready for Jesus’ return? This question isn’t about predicting dates or deciphering symbols—it’s about your heart. Are you living in a way that reflects your love and anticipation for Christ? If not, now is the time to align your life with His Word.
Jesus’ return will be sudden and swift, just as He promised. Whether it happens in your lifetime or beyond, the call remains the same: be ready. Live with urgency, faithfulness, and hope, knowing that the Bridegroom is coming for His bride.
This blog is based on the message shared by Senior Pastor Dr. Roger Patterson on Sunday November 24, 2024. Check out the full message below!
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