Francis Chan - Anxious for Christ's return

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message encourages believers to live with a sense of urgency and expectation, knowing that the return of Christ is near. We are reminded that the Bible prophesies about the last days being similar to the days of Noah, where people will be unaware of the impending judgment. As we navigate the current world events, we must not let fear grip us but instead look up with hope, knowing our redemption is drawing near.

Key Scripture References

• Matthew 24:37-39 - This passage reminds us that in the days of Noah, people were living their lives as usual, unaware of the impending judgment. Similarly, today we see people going about their daily lives, oblivious to the prophesied events unfolding around them.
• Matthew 24:42-44 - Jesus warns His followers to be vigilant and watchful, knowing that the day of His return will catch many by surprise. We must live with a sense of urgency, recognizing that our redemption is near.
• 2 Peter 3:10-12 - The apostle Peter reminds us that the Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, but rather is patient, giving people time to repent and turn to Him. However, the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night, catching many off guard.
• Revelation 14:6-7 - This passage speaks of an angel proclaiming the gospel to every nation, preparing the world for the return of Christ. We see this happening today, with the Bible being translated into more languages than ever before, and the gospel message spreading rapidly.
• Luke 21:28 - Jesus promises that those who see these events unfolding will be blessed, knowing their redemption is drawing near. We must look up with hope, rather than fear, as we await His return.
• Psalm 119:126 - The psalmist prays for God to come quickly and redeem His people, who are suffering under the weight of sin and oppression. We too can pray this prayer, knowing that our redemption is near.
• Revelation 22:20 - Jesus promises to return soon, and we must be ready to meet Him. This passage reminds us that our lives should be characterized by a sense of urgency and expectation, as we await His return.

Key Takeaways

• The Bible prophesies about the last days being similar to the days of Noah, where people will be unaware of the impending judgment. We must live with a sense of urgency and expectation, knowing that our redemption is near.
• We should not let fear grip us as we navigate current world events, but instead look up with hope, knowing that God is patient and giving people time to repent.
• The return of Christ is near, and we must be ready to meet Him. We can live our lives with a sense of purpose and urgency, knowing that our redemption is drawing near.
• We should pray for God's quick return, just like the psalmist in Psalm 119:126. This reminds us that our lives are not our own, but rather belong to Christ, who will soon return to take us home.

This Week's Challenge

As we await the return of Christ, let us commit to living with a sense of urgency and expectation. Here are two specific actions you can take this week:

1. Spend time in prayer, asking God to come quickly and redeem His people. Pray for those who do not know Him, that they might be prepared for His return.

2. Share the gospel message with someone this week, knowing that the Bible is being translated into more languages than ever before. This is a unique time in history, and we have a responsibility to spread the good news of Jesus Christ.

Reflection Questions

• How do you respond when faced with uncertainty or fear about the future? Do you look up with hope, knowing that your redemption is near?
• What steps can you take this week to live with a sense of urgency and expectation, knowing that Christ's return is near?
• As you navigate current world events, how can you balance living in the present moment while still looking forward to Christ's return?