Transformed by Truth: The Time Between Two Advents
Introduction
Today, we stand together in the blessed in-between time of history. We live between two monumental events: the first Advent, when Jesus came as a baby in Bethlehem, and the second Advent, when He will return as King of kings and Lord of lords. This period is not a passive waiting game; it is an active, purposeful, and hope-filled time.
The question we must ask is: How are we to live in this time between the two Advents? God’s Word provides us with clarity, guidance, and encouragement. Today, we’ll explore three key truths about this in-between time:
We are called to live with hopeful anticipation.
We are called to proclaim the gospel boldly.
We are called to live lives of holiness and readiness.
Let’s dive into God’s Word to discover how we can faithfully navigate this season and live transformed lives for His glory.
1. Living with Hopeful Anticipation
"For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ, will be revealed." (Titus 2:11-13, NLT)
Paul’s letter to Titus reminds us that God’s grace has already been revealed through Christ’s first coming. This same grace empowers us to live godly lives as we await His return. The phrase "look forward with hope" comes from the Greek word prosdechomai, which means to eagerly anticipate or expect. This is not a passive hope but a confident assurance rooted in God’s faithfulness.
The "glory" of Christ’s return is a promise that transforms how we live today. It is the anchor for our souls, as described in Hebrews 6:19: "This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God’s inner sanctuary."
Our hope in Jesus’ return motivates us to live with eternal perspective. In a world filled with uncertainty, we cling to the truth that God’s promises will be fulfilled. This hope also serves as a witness to others who are searching for meaning and security.
Imagine a bride preparing for her wedding day. Every detail of her life is influenced by the anticipation of her groom’s arrival. Similarly, as the Bride of Christ, we live in hopeful preparation for the day we will see Jesus face to face.
Pastor John Piper writes, "The second coming of Christ is the completion of His saving work. If you take it away, the whole fabric of His saving work unravels."
2. Proclaiming the Gospel Boldly
"Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20, NLT)
Jesus’ Great Commission is a call to action for all believers. The Greek word for “go” (poreuomai) implies ongoing movement—a lifestyle of gospel proclamation. The command to "make disciples" (matheteuo) means teaching and training others to follow Jesus, not merely converting them.
The promise of Christ’s presence—“I am with you always”—reminds us that we are never alone in this mission. His Spirit empowers us to boldly share the good news.
The time between the Advents is a season for gospel proclamation. Acts 1:8 reinforces this: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
We are Christ’s ambassadors, entrusted with the message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:20). Our words and actions should point others to the Saviour who came and is coming again.
Imagine holding a life preserver while watching someone drowning. Would you hesitate to throw it to them? The gospel is the ultimate life preserver, and we are called to share it without delay.
Evangelist Billy Graham said, "The evangelistic harvest is always urgent. The destiny of men and of nations is always being decided. Every generation is strategic."
3. Living Lives of Holiness and Readiness
"Since everything around us is going to be destroyed like this, what holy and godly lives you should live, looking forward to the day of God and hurrying it along. On that day, he will set the heavens on fire, and the elements will melt away in the flames." (2 Peter 3:11-12, NLT)
Peter’s reminder of the coming judgment is not meant to inspire fear but to encourage holy living. The word "holy" (hagios) conveys being set apart for God’s purposes. "Godly" (eusebes) reflects reverence and devotion to God in every aspect of life.
The phrase "hurrying it along" suggests that our obedience and prayer can align us with God’s redemptive plan, though the timing of Christ’s return is ultimately in God’s hands.
Our lives should reflect the character of the One we are waiting for. Romans 12:1 challenges us: "And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him."
Living holy lives means resisting the pull of sin and embracing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It’s about being ready, like the wise virgins in Matthew 25:1-13, who kept their lamps filled with oil as they waited for the bridegroom.
Think of an athlete training for a race. Every discipline and decision is shaped by the goal of being ready for the competition. Similarly, our daily choices should prepare us for the day we meet Christ.
A.W. Tozer said, "Holiness, as taught in the Scriptures, is not based upon knowledge on our part. Rather, it is based upon the resurrected Christ indwelling us and changing us into His likeness."
Conclusion: Living Between Two Advents
We live in the time between two Advents—a season of hope, mission, and holiness. As we wait for Christ’s return, let us:
Hold firmly to the hope of His coming.
Proclaim the gospel with urgency.
Live lives of holiness, reflecting His character to the world.
Call to Action:
Let’s not waste this in-between time. Be intentional about sharing the gospel, growing in holiness, and living with eternal perspective. If you have not yet placed your faith in Jesus, today is the day of salvation. Romans 10:13 assures us: "For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."
Will you trust Him today? Let’s pray together.
