Rudy Ross has an excellent YouTube presentation today on Matthew 24:15–28. For our presentation, Bruce and I relied on Rudy because he is an expert in this area, whereas we are not. Please take a few minutes to listen to what Rudy has to say.
Jesus used 13 verses to describe the events leading up to the end of this age and his return. In the rest of Matthew 24 and 25, he encouraged the church to be ready.
Over the next few days, we will cover those passages in our videos and blog articles. For now, I want to share what I believe are the most important things the church should be doing in the time between Jesus’s first coming and his return.
Be Good News People
At our core, we are called to be a light for people living in darkness.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
We should reflect the bright, shining presence of Jesus through his love—showing others his character, his nature, and his desire to be present in our lives. We show God’s light by living with love. Love is much more than a good feeling; love is action.
“I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34–35)
I recently read about churches in Springfield, Ohio, working hard to support the Haitian community facing deportation to a very violent Haiti after receiving temporary protected status from our government. That is love in action, shining a light into the darkness surrounding that community.
The Apostle Paul knew Christ’s return was near. He believed his best role was to share the good news, telling people who Jesus was and that Jesus wanted a personal relationship with them.
“But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'” (Romans 10:14–15)
As we think about Christ’s promised return, one of our roles is to help others know him so they can be ready when he comes.
Prayer’s Role
The book of Revelation speaks about the end times. Its final prayer comes from those who heard the Lord say that he is coming, and they responded with prayer:
“The one who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20)
The kingdom of God is the active reach of his power. When we pray the Lord’s Prayer for his kingdom to come, we are asking for his power to rule over us.
“May your kingdom come. May your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10)
As we look forward to Christ’s return and his full authority over the universe, “Your kingdom come” is a perfect request to pray each day.
Gift and Responsibility
There is no greater gift than having a personal relationship with God, but this gift also brings responsibility. We get to live with him and let his Spirit work through us. Our responsibility is to be the light, the love, and the beautiful voice Paul wrote about in the world.
We are called not only to pray for God’s rule in our own lives but also for it to come throughout the earth.
YouTube Discussion
Rudy Ross, Bruce Kirby, and I discussed Matthew 24:15–28 on YouTube today. We invite you to watch and join the conversation.
Real Voices 