LOOK WHO'S COMING,3: HIS APPEARANCE

Acts 1:6-11 – ⁶So when they had come together, they were asking Him, saying, “Lord, is it at this time You are restoring the kingdom to Israel?” ⁷He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority; ⁸but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”  ⁹And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. ¹⁰And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them. ¹¹They also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.”

            The church has a reliable promise: Jesus is coming again.  His coming involves appearing twice. The church meets Him in the air and then returns to earth with Him as the beautifully adorned Bride.  The Judgment Seat of Christ is where the church becomes properly adorned for the Wedding Supper of the Lamb.  At the Judgment Seat of Christ the true nature of your testimony is accurately revealed.  Today is your opportunity to lay up treasures in heaven and gain an abundant entrance into His kingdom.

            The event called the rapture naturally arises a few questions. How is He coming, when is He coming, and will He come surreptitiously?  Scripture gives greater clarity about this event.

Jesus is coming in the clouds.

            Clouds in the sky herald a change of weather on the earth. The cloud of His coming heralds a horrendous change of conditions in the world.

            Being raised in Seattle, summer clouds normally meant the temperature would cool down. That was not the case in hot and muggy Minnesota.

            Thinking as a Seattleite I would hope for rain to bring cooler temperatures. When the rain ended in Minnesota, however, the clouds would leave, the sun would reappear, the temperature would still be hot and the air was muggier. Clouds meant conditions would become more miserable shortly afterwards.

            Similar changes will occur after the rapture. A person will not want to be here. Life will be worse than anything imaginable.

            Note these Scriptures about His appearing in the clouds:

            “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. ¹⁴He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.” (Daniel 7:13-14)

            Jesus said, “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” (Mark 14:62)

            “At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory.” (Matthew 24:30)

            “Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of him.  So shall it be! Amen.” (Revelation 1:7)

            “…He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid Him from their sight…. Two men dressed in white stood beside them…. ‘This same Jesus will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.’” (Acts 1:9-11)

            Whatever the future holds, Jesus coming in the clouds of heaven is the key that will unlock the mystery.

            Years ago, two young men became followers of Jesus at a Lowell Lundstrom evangelistic crusade. In one of the services Lowell talked about the second coming of the Lord. They got very excited.

            Later they were driving down a road together and noticed a very unusual cloud in the sky. They thought it might be the cloud of the Lord. They pulled over to the side of the road and waited. They did not want their car to go out of control when they were taken. Is your anticipation to this level?

Jesus is coming with the trumpet sound.

            “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16)

            “…In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.” (1 Corinthians 15:52)

            Jesus said, “And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.” (Matthew 24:31)

            The whole earth will hear the trumpet of God, the last trumpet, the loud trumpet.

            The trumpet sound is connected to the feasts of Israel. Israelites celebrated seven festivals throughout the calendar year. Each foreshadowed something of eternal significance. Leviticus 23 records the Passover, Unleavened Bread, First Fruits, Pentecost, Trumpets, Day of Atonement and Tabernacles feasts.  Some of them occurred simultaneously.

            Passover. In the Older Testament the blood of a lamb saved Israel from God’s plague in Egypt. In the New Testament the blood of Jesus covers believers from God’s wrath over transgressions.

            Pentecost. In the Older Testament the Feast of Ingathering celebrated the gathering of the harvest. In the New Testament the Holy Spirit empowers believers to gather in those willing to follow Jesus.

            Tabernacles. In the Older Testament Israel celebrated their pilgrim journey in the wilderness. In the New Testament believers recognize this world as not their final home. There is “a city whose builder and maker is God.”  The present life is a pilgrimage that people pass through.

            Trumpets. In the Older Testament the seventh new moon was regarded, by Israel, as the consecration of a natural division of time. In the New Testament the last trumpet announces the fulfillment of the Gentile period. God will once again deal specifically with the covenant people of Israel; a division of time will occur.

            Jesus died during the Passover festival and the Holy Spirit came during the Pentecost festival. Some speculate He will return during the Trumpet festival. Scriptures declares, however, “No one knows the day or the hour.”

            The Apostle Paul reveals the present time is the Gentiles period. On account of Israel’s disobedience, God is pouring out His Spirit upon all people groups. When the trumpet sounds, God once again addresses Israel’s condition. The trumpet of God sounds the gathering of the church and God’s final dealing with Israel.

Jesus is coming for the looking church.

            Many people naturally wonder when the rapture will occur. Not knowing is probably to everyone’s best interest. If the day and hour was known tremendous laxity would naturally occur. Many would live recklessly and with indifference.

            In 1988 a pamphlet was published entitled, “88 Reasons Why Jesus Will Return in 1988.” The book created a stir in various churches. Some took it seriously and decided to get ready. The approach taken, however, revealed a tremendous flaw in character. Some took out loans with hopes of not repaying. Jesus is coming back for a prepared church – watchful people, not embezzling people.

            A major aspect of the “when” question centers around the Great Tribulation. Will the rapture occur before, during or after the seven-years of misery?

            A few questions are worth pondering: Will God treat the last generation of believers differently than He treated all other generations? If God dealt with the believer’s sin on Mount Calvary, why would God’s wrath on sin fall upon forgiven believers?

            The Bible reveals God spares the righteous from His wrath toward evil and corruption. If God spared the righteous from His wrath in prior times, you can reasonably expect Him to spare the righteous at the end of times.

            Note these Scriptures:

            “Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth.” (Revelation 3:10)

            “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. ²⁶Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. ²⁷At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. ²⁸When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:25-28)

            “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. ³⁵For it will come upon all those who live on the face of the whole earth. ³⁶Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:34-36)

            “Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, ²³that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent him. ²⁴“I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned….”  [NASV – “does not come into judgment.”  The Great Tribulation is a time of judgment.] (John 5:22-24)

            Jesus’ coming is called the Blessed Hope. “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. ¹²It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, ¹³while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ….” (Titus 2:11-13) Hope means expecting with joyous anticipation. There is no joy of expectancy if Jesus waits until in the midst of or following God’s wrath.

            Everything is ready for Jesus to come. You are not instructed to look for the “lawless one,” also known as the “anti-christ.” You are instructed to lift up your head because His salvation is coming quickly. Jesus is the only appearance believers should be looking for.

Look up!

            Jesus is coming in the clouds, with the trumpet sound, and for a looking church.

            In this series, the promise of His coming gives attention to Jesus coming for people who know Him.  The rapture gives attention to Jesus coming for people who serve Him.  His appearance gives attention to Jesus coming for people who look for Him.

            The church in Thessalonica was confused about the meeting in the air. They were not ready. Their actions revealed they were not wholesomely looking for His return.  Instead of being busy for Jesus, they had become busybodies.  Instead of working for the Kingdom, Paul had to admonish them, “If you don’t work, you don’t eat.”  They saw His return as an opportunity to lie around and do nothing.

            Jesus is coming for a prepared church filled with watching believers and sincere worshipers.  You are to live in a spirit of anticipation; knowing Him, serving Him and looking for Him. Are you ready?

LOOK WHO'S COMING, 2: THE RAPTURE

1 Corinthians 15:51-52 – Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, ⁵²in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.

            One of the great promises of Scripture is Jesus’ second coming. It is incorrect to say, “Is Jesus coming again?” It is not a question but a statement!

            Jesus came a first time and will come a second time. Jesus said He will come again, angels declared He will come again, the Apostles stated He will come again and the ordinances of the church (water baptism and communion) express He will come again. His coming is a reliable promise; it is the Blessed Hope. Hopefully, Jesus is coming for you.

            Are you living with a sense of anticipation? Years ago I was talking about His return and a toddler was sitting with his parents, paying attention to every word. At the end of the service the parents wanted to leave. He told them he was not ready to go just yet; Jesus was coming and he wanted to see Him. The innocent and simple approach to life, revealed in children, is the kind of expectancy needed by all who follow Jesus.

            First Corinthians 15 declares a shocking event connected to His return. Believers refer to it as the rapture.  The word is not used in Scripture but refers to being “caught up,” as stated in 2 Thessalonians 4:17.

            Here are some key elements to this Biblical event.

Jesus’ second coming is only once but He will appear twice.

            The Apostle Paul reveals by divine revelation a future event. There is no reference to the rapture in the Old Testament.

            Some Old Testament mysteries became clear after Jesus’ ministry on earth. The confusion of the suffering Messiah was cleared up after Jesus came and died on the cross. Jews and Gentiles being brought together into a divine community became clearer after the Holy Spirit was poured out on the day of Pentecost. These vague truths under the Old Covenant became understood in the New Covenant.

            There are mysteries not even revealed in the Old Testament. The rapture is a New Testament truth. Although not foretold in the Old Testament, there are types (Old Testament pictures of New Testament truths). God did not release His just wrath upon the wicked world until righteous Noah was safe from harm. God did not unleash destruction upon the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah until righteous Lot was a safe distance away.

            The rapture removes people made righteous through Jesus Christ before God’s judgment impacts the wicked and corrupt world system.

The rapture begins the final preparation.

            At the rapture Jesus receives His own and prepares them to come back with Him.

            The Bible illustrates this pattern. When David returned to Jerusalem, after his son’s defeat, His faithful followers met him at the Jordan River and returned with him to the city. (2 Samuel 19:10-15; 20:1-3)

            When Jesus walked on water, faithful Peter came out to meet Him and, with dependence upon Jesus, returned with Him to the boat. (Matthew 14; 22-34)

            When Paul was on his journey to Rome, believers came to meet him and returned together to the city. (Acts 28:15-16)

            The rapture is when faithful believers meet Jesus in the air and become prepared to return with Him to the earth.

After the meeting in the air

            Following the rapture, the church (the Bride of Christ) becomes properly adorned and united with her Lord. The adornment occurs at the Judgment Seat of Christ.

            “Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. ⁷We live by faith, not by sight. ⁸We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. ⁹So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. ¹⁰For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.” (2 Corinthians 5:6-10)

            This “judgment” is not with regard to sin. Sins become covered when Jesus is Lord of your life. Sins are forgiven on account of Mount Calvary. The Judgment Seat of Christ is when followers of Jesus discover the truth of their testimony.

            “His work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man’s work. ¹⁴If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. ¹⁵If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.” (1 Corinthians 3:13-15)

            Eternal life is through faith in God. Does your life give clear evidence of being a child of God? As someone once said, “If you were to stand trial for your faith would there be enough evidence to convict you?” Indifference and loose living impacts the quality of your testimony.

            Regardless what you say, you live according to what you actually believe. Eternal life is a priceless gift. Inappropriate behavior and unwholesome activities cheapens God’s grace. If you believe in Jesus then live for Jesus. As followers of Jesus, the present time is for laying up “treasures in heaven.”

            “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, ⁵who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Peter 1:3-5)

            Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” (Matthew 6:19-20)

            Based on your testimony today, you can experience an “abundant entrance into the everlasting kingdom.” Salvation is by grace, through faith, not by works; however, you are saved unto good works. Your life is to produce great results of eternal value.

            If there has been no change in your life since asking Jesus to be Lord, you should question your salvation. Your conversations and activities will not usher you into His eternal kingdom but should reflect you are a member of His kingdom. James reveals saving faith produces good works (James 2:24). Your activities should reveal you have a place in the Kingdom of God.

            Believers will appear before Jesus, at the Judgment Seat of Christ, and accurately see the record of their life. Let your life show the right way to live.

            The classic book of Chuck Colson, Loving God, makes reference to the west coast gangster Myer Harris Cohen, known as Mickey to his friends. He was a Kingpin for the L.A. mob in the late 1940’s. He wanted to be a follower of Jesus and still live as he had always done. When confronted by another believer he responded, “There are Christian movie stars, Christian athletes, Christian businessmen, so what’s the matter with being a Christian gangster?”

            Colson wrote, “Cohen was echoing the millions of professing Christians who… through their very lives pose the same question… [of] being Christianized versions of whatever they already were….  C.S. Lewis called these hybrids ‘Hyphenated Christians’….  Like Mickey, we cannot love God – cannot obey Him – and remain what we are.”

            With Jesus leading your life, change should be expected. Penetrating the darkness does not mean allowing darkness to penetrate you. By following Jesus you are already being judged by the world. The moment you identified with Him, the world started scrutinizing your life. People know there are some things believers should not be doing, things inappropriate.

            I was speaking to a young couple living across the street from our home and made reference to normally driving 5 M.P.H. over the speed limit on the highway. They knew I was a minister and said, “I thought people in your profession didn’t do such things.” They were making light jest about my driving but the comment reveals Christ followers have a different standard to live by. People know believers should do things saturated with righteousness; such as, speaking wholesomely and being helpful. Good fruit should be evident.

            “If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. ¹⁶However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. ¹⁷For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? ¹⁸And, ‘If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?’ ¹⁹So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” (1 Peter 5:15-19)

The Judgment Seat of Christ

            This judgment is gloriously filled with rewards. Rewards are signified in the Bible with the word, “crown.”

            The incorruptible crown is for those found faithful. (1 Corinthians 9:25)

            The crown of rejoicing is given to those who lead others to Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 2:19)

            The crown of righteousness comes to those ready for His coming. (2 Thessalonians 4:8)

            The crown of life is given to those who persevere under trial. (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10)

            The crown of glory is given to those who faithfully care for God’s family. (1 Peter 5:4)

            Rewards are given to believers who live in obedience to God.

The wedding

            After being properly adorned with a royal crown, the church is united with her Lord. The Apostle Paul said to the church in Corinth, “I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to him.” (2 Corinthians 11:2)

            “Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: ‘Hallelujah!  For our Lord God Almighty reigns. ⁷ Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.’ ⁸ Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear. The fine linen represents the righteous acts of the saints. ⁹Then the angel said to me, ‘Write: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!’” (Revelation 19:6-9)

            The Judgment Seat of Christ is part of the wedding; the Bride becomes properly adorned. Purifying fire reveals the righteous acts and followers of Jesus are rightfully rewarded.

            United with her Lord, the church is eternally with Him, like husband and wife. The Apostle Paul declared, “We shall always be with the Lord.  Therefore, comfort one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:17-18) Where He goes, the church goes; when He returns, the Bride returns with Him.

A glorious destiny

            A glorious destiny is waiting for those who love Jesus. Some may enter eternity without any “treasure in heaven” and some will have “an abundant entrance.” How will it be for you?  It’s your choice!

            People can build with wood, hay and stubble (1 Corinthians 3:12). Although not very durable, they are building materials. They cannot, however, survive fire. Will your testimony be able to withstand the scrutiny of the all-knowing God?

            Make your life count for Jesus! Your conversations and lifestyle should make a statement of lasting value. Be ready for the rapture. It could happen – right now!

LOOK WHO'S COMING, 1: THE PROMISE

2 Peter 3:3-4 – “³Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, ⁴and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.”

            People sometimes wonder what a local church teaches.  The Assemblies of God embraces sixteen fundamental Biblical truths.  Yet, sixteen core values can be difficult to remember. How about remembering four?

            When people ask, “What does your church believe?” give them these four truths: People are to have a personal relationship with God through His Son Jesus. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to dynamically reveal Jesus to others. Supernatural healing is available because of the death and resurrection of Jesus. Believers are to live each day with expectation of Jesus’ second coming.

The second coming of the Lord is referred to as the “Blessed Hope.” Are your conversations indicating indifference to this special hope? Have you developed a “business as usual” mentality?  Rarely, if ever, do people use the phrase, “Should Jesus tarry…” when speaking about future plans.

A lot of emphasis is placed on the Christmas holiday.  The glorious truth of Scripture is the immense step from the Babe of Bethlehem to the triumphant Lord returning to earth for His own people. Whenever church bells ring the joys of Christmas, they should cause greater alertness for the final trumpet announcing His second coming.  The value of Christmas, other than helping the economy, is to remind everyone Jesus is coming again.

This end-time series is divided into three groups.  The first is in four parts entitled, “Look Who’s Coming.”  The second is in two parts entitled, “Notice the signs.”  The third is in five parts entitled, “Living with the promise.”

Through the ages people have mocked the idea of His coming.  When we think of mockers, we normally think of the unchurched.  What the unchurched say is of little value to those in Christ. The church is not of the world and should not expect beliefs to be viewed favorably.  The mockers of this world will one day become the mourners of His coming.  (Revelation 1:7)  Beliefs are based on the Bible, not the opinions of the unchurched.

Of greater concern are mockers in the church; people who mock His coming by the way they live.  Second Peter 3:3 defines a scoffer as one who follows their own evil desires.  A form of mockery about His coming is to pursue the excessive accumulation of possessions and live solely for worldly pleasure.

Life-changed believers demonstrate transformation by rendering service to God.  The property thought to be owned are more accurately resources that are managed and are for the Lord’s usage.  Some who attend church hoard the little they have and build higher fences to keep people out.  Believers distance and isolate themselves so nobody can lay claim to their treasures.

Jesus is coming for a ready church, a church more concerned about adorning herself for her Redeeming Groom, than with acquiring notoriety and fame.

Scriptures do not leave “Jesus is coming again!” as a question but as a statement.

Reasons to consider His second coming

            How you view all of Scripture is dependent upon this event. Over 300 references are made in the New Testament to His coming. One out of twenty-five verses make reference to His coming. Whole chapters are devoted to this event; Matthew 24-25, Mark 12, Luke 21, 1 Corinthians 15. Whole books deal with this promise; 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, Revelation. What you believe about the Second Coming will decide how you understand Scripture and will impact how you live for Jesus.

            Your beliefs about God will be influenced by when you think the rapture will occur. Believers use terms such as pre-tribulation (pre-trib) or mid-tribulation (mid-trib). Some speak of a pre-wrath rapture when discussing the “meeting in the air.”

            Your anticipation of eternity will be influenced by your thoughts about the millennial reign of Christ. His second coming is important to your understanding of all God’s word.

            The signs of His coming are intensifying. Although signs will be considered later, present-day events take on a whole new dimension when seen in the light of Scripture. The conflicts of the Middle East take on greater meaning when Scripture is studied. Though Hollywood and the Media loosely use the term “Armageddon,” a genuine worldwide conflict will take place on a piece of real estate located at the crossroads of the world.

            God wants prepared believers. Is the church ready for His coming? Hebrews 12:1 declares, “…let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

            Is there anything still entangling you? Is there anything holding you down when being called up?

            Some believers desire to experience more of life. They want Jesus to come, just not yet. Women want a big wedding and marriage, or have a baby, then He can come. Men want to explore the world and hope He holds off His return for awhile. If not careful you can find yourself void of a “first love” relationship. His second coming should not be second place in your life.

Five Biblical reasons His second coming will happen

            The fact that Jesus came a first time testifies that He is coming a second time. There are 300 references in the Old Testament to His first appearance. His birth, life, ministry, trial, death and resurrection are revealed in the Old Testament. Every one of the prophecies was fulfilled.

            There is more stated about His second coming in the Old Testament than stated about His first coming. How He will appear, His rulership over Israel, His judgment upon the nations, and many details of the coming conditions of the earth under His leadership are recorded in the Old Testament. These prophecies will also be fulfilled, as were the prophecies of His first appearance.

            Jesus said He would come again. A follower of Jesus lives with the assurance that what Jesus said is true. To believe He is God and confess He is Lord yet deny His return is to call Him a liar.

            Jesus said, “For the Son of Man is going to come in His Father’s glory with His angels, and then He will reward each person according to what he has done.” (Matthew 16:27)

            Jesus said, “For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’” (Matthew 23:39)

            Jesus said (after being asked if He was the Christ), “I am; and you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” (Mark 14:62)

            Jesus said, “In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you.  I am going there to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:2-3)

            Jesus will fulfill what he promised.

            The angels declare He will come again. The heavenly messengers sent from God, who surround His throne, who have a special audience with the Almighty, who minister to us, declare He is coming. “They were looking intently up into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them.  ‘Men of Galilee,’ they said, ‘why do you stand here looking into the sky?  This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.’” (Acts 1:10-11) All of heaven is waiting with expectancy for this event.

            The Apostles declared He is coming again. Those who were His eyewitnesses, who heard what He said, saw what He did, walked with Him along the shores of Galilee, and did signs and wonders in His name, believed without doubt that Jesus would come again. If an eyewitness testimony cannot be disputed in their lifetime, it stands as true.

            Paul declared, “According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.  For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.”  (1 Thessalonians 4:15-16)

            The writer of Hebrews wrote, “So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” (Hebrews 9:28)

            James declared, “You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.” (James 5:8)

            Peter declared, “But in keeping with His promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and new earth, the home of righteousness.” (2 Peter 3:13)

            John quotes Daniel and Zechariah in Revelation and affirms, “Look, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him….” (Revelation 1:7)

            Jude writes, “See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of His holy ones to judge everyone….” (Jude 1:14-15)

            The Apostles proclaimed with assurance that Jesus will come again.

            The ordinances Jesus gave to the church inform us He is coming again. Participation in water baptism and communion is based on believing in His eminent return.

            Water baptism is a testimony of a future resurrection. You identify with His death and resurrection, declare new life has come in place of a dead nature, and give a physical statement of looking ahead to the day of your bodily resurrection.

            Communion is a testimony of His return. “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” (1 Corinthians 11:26)

            Jesus said, “I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father’s kingdom.” (Matthew 26:29) The best way to prepare for His coming is to never forget His continual presence, which is the purpose and design of communion.

            These ordinances keep before the church Jesus will return for His own.

The final victory over evil

            Some think the ultimate triumph over evil will come by human advancement, the gradual evolution of human potential. Given enough time mankind can make the perfect utopia. World War I gave the idea a major blow and World War II broke its spirit. Vietnam laid it in the grave and terrorism has shoveled the dirt of interment over it.

Will human progress stop people and nations from sinning? Will human progress and achievement ever wipe away all tears from our eyes or heal our broken hearts? To ask these questions is to answer them.

The final victory will not come through some natural progress of human development or through the religious forces that are operative in the world right now. The victory will not come by an improvement of the present order.  The high point of human history will be the sudden appearance, on the field of battle, the Captain of our salvation. He will come in glory, and it will be comparable to what John beheld: “Look, I see a great white horse. And there is a Rider on that horse whose name is Faithful and True, and there are many crowns upon his head.” (Revelation 19:11-16)

Jesus, who is the King of kings and Lord of lords, is coming for His people. Are you included?  Are you entangled with the cares of this world?  Is there something able to hold you down when the trumpet sound calls you up? Do not mock the promise of His coming by how you live.

THE GOD THAT SUPPLIES

Philippians 4:10-20 – “¹⁰I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. ¹¹I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹²I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³I can do everything through him who gives me strength. ¹⁴Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. ¹⁵Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; ¹⁶for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. ¹⁷Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. ¹⁸I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. ¹⁹And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. ²⁰To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

            Philippians is one of four books known as the “Prison Epistles” (Prison Letters), the other are Ephesians, Colossians and Philemon. They were written around the same time, when the Apostle Paul was imprisoned in Rome awaiting his “appeal to Caesar.” (Acts 25:11)

            The theme of Philippians is summed up in one word, “Rejoice!”  Philippians 4:4 reads, “⁴Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

Followers of Jesus have everything to rejoice about. A believer’s lifestyle is designed for rejoicing.  Yet people wonder, “How can you rejoice when so many situations are sad?  How can you rejoice when life has become more stressful?  How can you rejoice when human misery is increasing?”

 Paul reveals the possibility of such a lifestyle is achieved by being content in every circumstance and faithfully serving in every situation. He concludes by declaring, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”  (Philippians 4:13) 

Failing to have a lifestyle of rejoicing is not about “ability” but about “desire;” not about “I can’t” but “I won’t.”  Rejoicing is a matter of choice.

Just as rejoicing is a choice, another decision needs to be made. What am I going to do with finances? The answer impacts the ability to have a rejoicing lifestyle. A direct connection exists between joy and giving, between rejoicing and financial stewardship.

When going to a doctor for a check-up, they poke, prod and press various places, all the while asking, “Does this hurt?  How about this?”  If you cry out in pain, one of two things has happened.  Either the doctor pushed too hard, or, more likely, there’s something wrong. The doctor says, “We’d better do some tests; it’s not suppose to hurt there!” 

The same thing is true when talking about money, either too much pressure is applied or, more likely, something is wrong.  You may need to go to the Great Physician; it is not suppose to hurt when financial stewardship is given attention.

A friend asked in a Sunday gathering for everyone to write down a current struggle.  He compiled the responses and developed a list of ten top things people are wrestling with. In a weekly series he gave a Biblical response, starting from the last and going to the first. The tenth struggle was “discouragement,” the ninth was “worry.” In his unscientific survey the greatest strain was “finances.”

As it pertains to the provisions of life; “… my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) Note the key elements to having a life in which God meets needs.

Needs being met is provisional.

            The believers in Philippi gained a “renewed” interest in Paul’s situation. Their concern for Paul was revived. This gave them an opportunity to help. Would they respond to his needs? Would they join his efforts? Since they were sensitive to God’s work and made an effort to meet the need, God would give special attention to their needs.

            Reviving speaks of a heart condition, not a financial situation. Failing to give is not about money but about attitude. You can always give something, great or small, according to what you have. Giving is a decision each individual must make.

            Luke 6:38 is a great promise: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” This is not about “give” to “get.” Stewardship is not a heavenly get rich quick plan. Biblical giving is not the Believers way to earthly wealth. If you give out of what you have then an abundant reaping will follow. You cannot give what you do not have.

            A poor woman gave a small amount of money and, yet, gave more than others who had wealth. (Luke 21: 1-4) Jesus gave only a little attention to the amount and more attention to what was available. Are offerings measured by how much is given or by how much is left?  People generally measure by what is given. God may measure by the proportion of available funds.

            Offerings come from the resources entrusted to you by God. You can never be overly generous. No one can ever out-give Him.

            God watches over your interests. When giving as unto the Lord expect great dividends, one of which is a rejoicing heart. The Bible speaks of being a “cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7), which translates “giving like you are crazy.”Ask yourself, “Can friends, relatives, bankers and the IRS accuse me of being crazy by the way I give?”

            God’s attention to your needs corresponds to your treatment of His work. God provides funds for ministry through His people. When you become a joint-participate in the work of the Kingdom, God notices.

            Everyone should faithfully and regularly add to their heavenly depository. God will recompense far better than anyone. His resources are limitless and He does everything in a “glorious” way.

What is the intent of your giving?

            Are you giving to get or getting to give?

            What are you doing with His tithe, the first 10% of all income? Do you tip or tithe?

            Statistics show the average church attendee gives 2%. In other words, a token! It is like giving gratuity, without paying the bill.

            King David, the great worshiper, said, “I will not give to the Lord that which cost me nothing.” Is there something lacking in your worship experience? It could be connected to your giving habit.

            What is worship costing you? When was the last time you went without something, you sacrificed, to advance the Lord’s work?  Sacrificial giving is part of spiritual living.

            Most churches live below their giving potential. This harms both the individual believer and the faith community. His tithe is given out of obedience, as a testimony of Lordship. Offerings are given out of love, as a testimony of devotion.

            The tithe belongs to the Lord. This is the minimum that should be given. Offerings demonstrate an additional commitment to spreading His story.

            The tithe goes to the general work of the Kingdom (undesignated). What is given to a specific work of the Kingdom (designated) comes out of passion and burden. Glen Cole, one of my early mentors, used to say, “We need a revival of love that impacts our loot.”

            A benefit of faithfulness is blessing and provision. “⁷The LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast desert. These forty years the LORD your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything.” (Deuteronomy 2:7)

How does God supply?

            God provides the best way. Given the situation, what is best for you and for everyone concerned?

            One thing is consistent:  God will not raise lazy children. “¹⁰For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: ‘If a man will not work, he shall not eat.’ ¹¹We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. ¹²Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12)

            God causes everything to work together for good. (Romans 8:28) If we do not attempt to prescribe a solution to God, if we do not try to box Him in, He meets needs in a variety of ways. In one or another or a combination of ways, God will supply.

            Three major avenues are regularly used when He helps people in their financial situation.

            Through opportunities! The way most financial problems are solved is by work. We feel best when we have earned money instead of received money. We have divinely-given skills that, among other reasons, take care of personal needs.

            Through people! The Lord sometimes places a need upon someone’s heart and they generously help you. This is a humbling experience. We are to graciously accept gifts as coming from the Lord. He blesses them as they act in obedience to His leading.

            Through the supernatural! The Lord is a God of miracles. He supernaturally meets needs. Scriptures reveal some divine healing occurred because the recipient could not afford medical treatment. God also miraculously prolongs the usefulness of equipment that should have given up the ghost a longtime ago. His hands are on possessions we dedicate to Him.

            When God supplies a need it will always be honest. Finding stolen money is not God’s provision. This is a test of character. Receiving too much change from a cashier is a test of character. Finding a billfold full of money in a parking lot is a test of character.

            In many small towns people commonly leave their car engine running while checking their mail in the Post Office. If someone needed a car and came upon a vehicle with its engine running, would this be God supplying the need? Of course not! The idea sounds foolish but, unfortunately, some think this way. His supply will always be honest and respectable in order that He might be glorified. All provisions will be able to bring glory to God.

            Philippians give a tremendous promise:  If responsive to the needs of His Kingdom, if believe it is more blessed to give then receive, if not trying to obligate God to do something in return, then there will be no deficiency of provisions.  God will supply through opportunity, through people and through the supernatural any need, according to His glorious riches.