A More Detailed Study of Watching and Being Ready (Matthew 24:36-51)
Introduction:
1. This morning our lesson was based on the Lord's instructions in vs.42-44 to watch and be ready for His return. 2. This evening we are making a more detailed study of the Lord's instructions in vs.36-51.
Discussion:
I. (vs.36) JESUS TALKED ABOUT THE TIME OF HIS RETURN
A. He said that no man or angel knows when He will return [in Mark 13:32, Jesus included Himself]. B. However, the Father has appointed a day when His Son will judge the world (Acts 17:30-31). 1. Christ will judge the world when He returns (2 Timothy 4:1). 2. At that time everything will be destroyed (2 Peter 3:10).
II. (vs.37-39) JESUS COMPARED HIS RETURN TO THE FLOOD THAT OCCURRED IN NOAH'S DAY
A. (Genesis 6:3-7) God set a day when He would destroy man. B. Noah and his family followed God's instructions and were prepared for the flood (Genesis 6:14-22; Hebrews 11:7). C. Everyone else failed to prepare and consequently perished in the flood. D. When the time of the Lord's return arrives, it will be too late to get prepared.
III. (vs.40-41) WHEN JESUS RETURNS A SEPARATION WILL OCCUR
A. Jesus implied that His return will be a surprise. 1. If the time of the Lord's return could be determined,: a. would people be working in the field? b. would women be grinding at the mill? 2. (1 Thessalonians 5:2) The day of the Lord will come "as a thief in the night." B. This separation that will take place will be for eternity (John 5:28-29).
IV. (vs.42-51) JESUS GAVE SOME INSTRUCTIONS THAT RELATE TO HIS RETURN
A. (vs.42a) He said, "Watch." 1. (vs.42b) He showed why we must watch for His return. 2. He illustrated the importance of watching for His return in vs.43. B. (vs.44a) He also said, "Be ready." 1. (vs.44b) He showed why we must be ready for His return. 2. He illustrated the importance of being ready for His return in vs.45-51. a. (vs.45-47) Wise servants who serve their Master faithfully will be blessed. b. (vs.48-51) Evil servants who do not serve their Master faithfully will be punished.
Conclusion:
1. In Matthew 24:1-3 the setting for the Lord's teaching in Matthew 24-25 is revealed. 2. In vs.4-35 Jesus talked about the time when the temple would be destroyed. 3. Jesus began talking about His return at vs.36. a. No one knows when that day will be. b. We are to watch and be prepared for it.
