Be Complete (Mark 13:24-27)

16 May 2010

I.     Last signs of Jesus' return, vv. 24-25.
A.     "But" points out a contrast to the previous false teachings.
     1.     Satan will do all he can to deceive believers.
     2.     There will be no doubt about Jesus' return.
B.     Even nature will verify the truth of Jesus' return.
     1.     Similar prophecies: Isaiah 13:10, 34:4, Joel 2:10.
     2.     There will be great changes in the sun, moon, and stars.
          a.     This is not yet the end of the world.
          b.     God will use these events for proof and attention.
C.     People of faith will recognize the hand of God at work.
     1.     The signs are meant to help us stand firm.
     2.     God can always be trusted to speak when we need.

II.     The Second Coming of Jesus, vv. 26-27.
     A.     The second coming will be very different than the first.
          1.     First: little noticed, very humble, helpless infant.
          2.     Second.
               a.     Great power as God of all creation.
               b.     Great glory as King that everyone will see.
               c.     Out of the very presence of God (clouds).
          3.     His return will be personal, visible, and glorious.
     B.     The second coming will usher in the Millennium.
          1.     This gathering of God's people could be the rapture.
               a.     Believers raised to meet Jesus in the air (1 Thess. 4:17).
               b.     Rapture might be before the tribulation or halfway.
          2.     The Millennium is the 1,000-year reign of Jesus on earth.
               a.     Jesus and faithful Christians will rule every nation.
               b.     Society will be almost perfect.
          3.     Satan will be released for a final battle he will lose.
               a.     All sin/evil will be removed from creation.
               b.     Jesus will complete His work of salvation.
               c.     Heaven will be our incredible eternal home!

Personal Challenges
1.     Are you ready for Jesus to come back?
     a.     Ask for wisdom to understand the signs of the times.
     b.     Ask for courage to face whatever might come.
     c.     Ask for faith to trust God no matter what.
2.     Do you know God in a personal relationship?