Preparing For Christ's Second Coming

PREPARING FOR CHRIST'S SECOND COMING

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 25:1-13

"Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom."

Supporting Texts: Mark 13:32-37, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18, 2 Peter 3:10, Revelation 22:12

INTRODUCTION:

The return of Jesus Christ is a central theme in Christian doctrine and the hope of every believer. While His first coming was marked by humility and a mission to save the world, His second coming will be in glory, to judge the living and the dead. Jesus promised He would return (John 14:3), and the Scriptures emphasize that His return will be sudden and unexpected, like a thief in the night (2 Peter 3:10). This reality urges us as believers to live with anticipation, preparedness, and urgency.

The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 serves as a warning to all believers to be ready. Five virgins were wise and prepared, but the other five were foolish and unprepared. In this sermon, we will explore how we can prepare ourselves for the second coming of Christ and live in constant readiness. This includes examining our faith, obedience, spiritual vigilance, and our lifestyle as we await His return.

As we approach this topic, let us reflect on the urgency of this preparation, the signs of His coming, and the steps we must take to ensure we are not caught unprepared when He returns. The day of His coming is closer than ever before, and we must be ready, living in expectation of His glorious return.

1. LIVING IN EXPECTATION OF HIS RETURN

The second coming of Christ is a certainty, and believers must live in anticipation.

a) We are citizens of heaven, awaiting our King

Philippians 3:20 – Our conversation (citizenship) is in heaven, from whence we look for the Saviour.

b) The return of Christ should dominate our thoughts

1 Thessalonians 1:9-10 – We turn to God from idols, to wait for His Son from heaven.

c) Expectation purifies our hearts and lives

1 John 3:2-3 – Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.

d) We must be watchful and alert at all times

Mark 13:33 – Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.

Biblical Example: The Early Church (Acts 1:10-11)

The early believers lived with an active expectation of Christ's return, and their focus on His return influenced their lifestyle and ministry.

2. LIVING HOLY AND OBEDIENT LIVES

Holiness and obedience are essential in preparing for Christ’s return.

a) We must live righteously in a corrupt world

Titus 2:12 – Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world.

b) Holiness is a command for those expecting His return

1 Peter 1:15-16 – But as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.

c) Obedience to God brings us in line with His will

Matthew 7:21 – Not everyone that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven.

d) A prepared heart is one that obeys God’s Word

Luke 11:28 – But He said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.

Biblical Example: Noah (Genesis 6:22)

Noah prepared for the flood by building the ark according to God's instructions, showing that obedience to God is key in preparing for judgment and salvation.

3. WATCHING AND PRAYING CONSTANTLY

Christ's second coming will catch many unaware, but we must stay vigilant in prayer.

a) We must remain spiritually awake and vigilant

Matthew 24:42 – Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

b) Prayer keeps us in a state of readiness

Luke 21:36 – Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass.

c) Spiritual alertness prevents us from being deceived

Matthew 24:4-5 – Take heed that no man deceive you.

d) Prayer is a vital tool in maintaining preparedness

Luke 22:40 – Pray that ye enter not into temptation.

Biblical Example: The Disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:41)

Jesus encouraged His disciples to watch and pray in preparation for His betrayal, reminding them that spiritual preparedness requires constant vigilance and prayer.

4. STAYING FAITHFUL IN SERVICE AND WORKING FOR THE KINGDOM

As we wait for His return, we must remain faithful in serving God and advancing His kingdom.

a) Our work for the Lord should be diligent and faithful

Matthew 24:45-46 – Who then is a faithful and wise servant? Blessed is that servant whom his lord, when he cometh, shall find so doing.