How to be Ready for the Lord's Return -- Zac Poonen -- May 8, 2021

Zac PoonenMay 9, 20211h 14mWatch on YouTube

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http://rlcf.church/media/sermons/how-be-ready-lords-return River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA

Summary

The speaker encourages listeners to develop the habit of memorizing hymns, noting that these can be spiritually strengthening, much like memorizing scripture. Regarding readiness for the Lord's return, he cautions that merely claiming to be Christian is insufficient; true readiness requires a deep, committed engagement to Christ, symbolized by being faithful to the covenant made at the outset. He warns against spiritual complacency, comparing it to the foolish virgins who were unprepared for the bridegroom's arrival.

Outline

The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.

Memorizing godly hymnsDeveloping the habit of memorizing challenging words from godly hymns can strengthen and comfort us in times of trouble.

Signs of the end timesWhile famines, earthquakes, wars, and pandemics occur, the primary spiritual warning Jesus gave regarding His coming is different and must be taken seriously.

The ten virgins and the danger of hypocrisyIn the parable of the ten virgins, the foolish virgins lacked extra oil, representing a hidden life of obedience to the Holy Spirit that matches one's external profession.Matthew 25:1

Watch your hidden lifeA true disciple's private life in the home and in secret must align with their public reputation, avoiding the hypocrisy of acting like a saint only when seen.

Deception as the chief signJesus repeatedly warned that widespread deception by false prophets will be the primary characteristic of the days immediately preceding His return.Matthew 24:3

Enduring in fervent loveMost believers' love will grow cold in the last days, but those who endure in fervent love for Christ until the end will be saved.Matthew 24:11–13

Finding a wilderness to prayBelievers must carve out undistracted time alone with God daily, away from the busyness of the world, to hear His voice.

What do you want Me to do for you?Instead of seeking positions of honor like James and John, believers should pray like blind Bartimaeus for spiritual sight to see Christ clearly.Mark 10:35

The days of Noah and finding favor with GodThe last days will resemble the wickedness, violence, and pornography of Noah's day, yet believers are called to find favor in God's eyes by pleasing Him alone.Matthew 24:37

Building the ark for the salvation of the familyNoah built the ark in reverence and trained his family in the fear of God, standing as a godly witness that condemned the ungodly world.Hebrews 11:7

Forgiving others completelyTo be ready for the Lord's return, believers must forgive others from the heart, mirroring Christ's forgiveness even when people wrong them.

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How to be Ready for the Lord's Return -- Zac Poonen -- May 8, 2021

Zac Poonen · May 9, 2021 · 1h 14m

The Lord’s return Following Jesus