But Wait - There's More!

But Wait – There’s More!

Various Scriptures

April 27, 2003

Introduction

Don’t you just love those late-night infomercials? Have any of you bought anything off one of those? It’s okay, don’t be shy.

They sell just about everything you can think of, from flea powder to kitchen utensils.

They go into great detail, describing all the features and benefits, and then they say what: “but wait – there’s more!”

And then you hear about another feature, or about the free gift you’ll get with your order of only $19.95.

Well, I’m here to tell you that Jesus’ death bought our forgiveness. His resurrection gave us power over death. But wait – there’s more!

He’s coming again! The job’s not done, yet! He’s got more to accomplish. And we’re going to look at what that is today.

You see, Jesus’ mission didn’t end on the cross. It didn’t end at the empty grave. It will end when He returns in glory.

We talk about His first coming at Christmas, and His death and resurrection at Easter time, and I thought it would be good to look at His second coming.

We are only going to scratch the surface on this topic, because we could literally spend weeks and months just trying to figure it all out.

And my intention today is not to give you a lot of data regarding the timing of His return, but rather to encourage you to be ready when He does come.

In doing so, I want us to look at why He’s coming again, when He’s coming again, and how we should prepare for His return.

My hope is that you will leave here aware, and encouraged regarding that wonderful day when He will come again in glory.

1. Why will He come again?

Two main purposes:

 To bring reward and judgment.

1 Corinthians 4:5

Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.

The New Testament is filled with mentions of Jesus’ return to judge.

And Jesus Himself makes many references to His role as Judge. He will judge men’s actions and their hearts.

And what you need to know right now is that generally your actions reflect your heart.

I say, “generally,” because all of us can do good deeds at times, even if we are not inclined to do them as a habit.

Hardened killers have shown kindness to people, but that doesn’t mean their hearts will withstand the judgment.

Folks, the judgment is very real. But you can escape that judgment. I will tell you how to do that later in the message, so hang on, okay?

But before I get too far into the negative, let me be quick to say that Jesus will also be bringing reward with Him. His return will be a terrible time for some, but a wonderful time for all who are living for Christ.

The second reason Jesus is returning is…

 To bring His people to Himself.

John 14:2-3

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. 3 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.

I love this passage. It tells me two things: first, He is coming back, and second, that He is looking forward to having me around in Heaven.

Now I don’t know about you, but I like the thought that Jesus is getting ready to return to take me back home with Him.

And when that happens, I won’t be worrying about all the hassles down here on earth. I’ll be in the house of the Father.

I will finally be in the presence of the one who loves me more than anybody on earth can love me. The one who loves me so much He sent His only Son to get me to heaven.

And it’s very possible that I will meet Him in the air, according to the passage we read at the beginning of the service,

If you call on Christ as your Savior, you have that same assurance.

The Bible mentions other reasons for His return, but these are the two biggies, in my book. He is returning to bring reward and judgment, and to bring His people to Himself.

Let’s look at the next question…

2. When will He come again?

If you want to start a debate among Christians, just ask this question. Opinions differ greatly, and many godly people will just about fight to the death about when they think Jesus will return and what has to happen first.