This article is a companion piece to our recent sermon. Watch the full message below:
The Promise That Changes Everything
In a world filled with uncertainty, wars, diseases, and economic upheaval, there’s one promise that should fill every Christian’s heart with unshakeable hope: Jesus Christ is coming back for His church. This isn’t just a nice thought or a comforting myth – it’s a divine promise directly from our Savior.
“Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.” – Revelation 3:11
Why This Matters More Than Ever
The signs Jesus spoke about regarding His return are more evident today than ever before in history. But here’s what’s fascinating: while the world sees chaos, believers should see confirmation. Every headline that makes others anxious should make us more alert and expectant.
The Difference Between Believers and Non-Believers
Here’s a profound truth that sets Christians apart: while most people live in fear of death, believers in Jesus Christ live in expectation of meeting Him. We’re not waiting to die; we’re waiting to be transformed. Think about that for a moment…
Jesus Conquered Death: The Ultimate Proof
Why can we be so confident about Jesus’s return? Because He’s already proven His power over death. The empty tomb isn’t just historical fact – it’s our guarantee.
“O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory? The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:55-57
The Reality of Eternal Life
Let’s be crystal clear about something: Heaven isn’t a state of mind or a metaphor – it’s a real place prepared for real people. Jesus didn’t die and rise again to give us a beautiful concept; He did it to give us a beautiful destiny.
The Uncomfortable Question You Need to Ask Yourself
Here’s a challenging thought that might make you uncomfortable: If you don’t enjoy spending time with Jesus now, why would you want to spend eternity with Him? This isn’t meant to condemn but to provoke honest self-reflection.
Signs of Genuine Love for Christ
- Do you look forward to prayer and worship?
- Are you excited to learn more about Him through Scripture?
- Do you feel comfortable sharing your faith with others?
- Is your relationship with Jesus more than just Sunday attendance?
The Promise of New Creation
“Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away… And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.” – Revelation 21:1,4
This isn’t just poetry – it’s a promise of complete transformation. Every tear wiped away. Every pain healed. Every broken thing made new. When Jesus says “It is done,” it really is done!
A Critical Distinction: Confession vs. Repentance
Here’s something many Christians misunderstand: there’s a world of difference between confession and repentance. Confession acknowledges wrong; repentance turns away from it. One without the other is like knowing the right path but choosing not to walk it.
The Path to True Transformation
God isn’t looking for perfection – He’s looking for commitment. It’s not about never falling; it’s about always getting back up with a determined heart to follow Him more closely.
Your Challenge: Live Ready
Here’s your challenge this week: Live each day as if Jesus could return at any moment. Not in fear, but in joyful expectation. Ask yourself these questions daily:
- Would I be ready if Jesus returned today?
- What needs to change in my life to live more aligned with His will?
- Am I helping others prepare for His return?
The Final Word
Remember this: Salvation is free, but discipleship costs everything. Jesus has done the work of securing your salvation, but following Him requires your active participation. The good news? He’s given you everything you need to succeed.
Your eternal destination isn’t just about where you end up – it’s about who you become along the way.
Let’s make a commitment together: Next time we meet, whether here on earth or in heaven, may we be able to say we lived every day in anticipation of His return.
Share this message with someone who needs to hear about the hope we have in Christ’s return. Remember, Jesus isn’t just coming back – He’s coming back for you!