1.Last Sunday we pointed out from 2 Timothy 4:8 how the Lord will give "a crown of righteousness" to all who "love His appearing." 2."The Lord's appearing" [the Lord's return] is a subject that receives a great amount of attention in the Bible. 3.In our lesson we are examining a number of passages that reveal the information we need to know about the Lord's return. 4.Let us begin by pointing out that . . .
Discussion:
I.THEBIBLETEACHESTHATTHELORDISGOINGTOAPPEAR
A.(John 14:1-3) Jesus promised His apostles that He will return. 1.(John 13:33) Jesus informed them that He was leaving them soon. 2.This information was disturbing to the apostles (John 13:36-37). 3.The Lord’s promise to return was designed to comfort them. B.(Acts 1:9-11) 2 angels told the apostles that Jesus will return. 1.Jesus was taken up in a cloud. 2.He will return in the same manner. C.(Revelation 1:7) John, an inspired apostle, said that Jesus will return. 1.He will come with clouds. 2.Every eye will see Him. D.According to these verses, there can be no doubt that Jesus will appear.
A.It will arrive "as a thief in the night" [unexpected] (1 Thessalonians 5:2). B.(Revelation 22:20) "Surely I come quickly" [suddenly, without warning]. C. These statements imply that we must always be prepared for the Lord's return. D.We must always be prepared because of . . .
III.WHATTHEBIBLETEACHESWILLHAPPENWHENJESUSAPPEARS
A.Everything will be burned up (2 Peter 3:10). B.(John 5:28-29) The resurrection and the judgment will occur. 1.These verses do not specifically mention the Lord's return. 2.However, they do mention His voice [it will be heard when He returns]. C.(1 Thessalonians 4:14-18) When the Lord shouts, the faithful children of God [dead and alive] will be caught up together in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and spend eternity with Him. D.(2 Thessalonians 1:7-10) When Jesus appears,: 1.those who do not know God and who do not obey the Gospel will be condemned to everlasting punishment 2.He will be glorified among His saints.
Conclusion:
1.No one knows when Jesus will appear (Matthew 24: 36, 42). 2.We need to be ready for the Lord's appearing and be watching for it (Matthew 24:44; 25:13). 3.Keys to being prepared for the Lord's appearing include: a.seeking "those things which are above" (Colossians 3:1-4) b.denying improper conduct and pursuing proper conduct (Titus 2:11-13) c.being diligent to be in good standing with the Lord (2 Peter 3:11-14) d.abiding in Christ (1 John 2:28). 4.(1 John 3:2) Those who are ready for the Lord's appearing will enjoy a great blessing. 5.Are you ready?
