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“"Preparation Rather than a Date"”

Thoughts for Today:

Many Christian scholars and Bible teachers have suggested that Paul and other New Testament writers anticipated the return of Christ (and the end of the world) -- within a few days, weeks, or even years. Certainly within their lifetimes. Our passage today is one example that should help to counter-balance this idea. In other words, Paul wouldn't have written of "coming ages", if he were completely convinced that Christ would return within this lifetime. There are many others as well, for example:

1 Thessalonians 5:2: "For you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.

Matthew 24:36: "But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father."

2 Peter 3:10: "But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare."

Mark 13:32-33: "But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come."

As we read these passages we begin to realize the teaching has more to do with being ready for Christ's return (preparation), rather than a specific timeline. In fact, any of the New Testament writers would have been in contradiction of these verses if they thought the world would absolutely end during their lifetime. Why? Because the overarching theme is one of being surprised, and therefore not placing any time limit or life span upon the Lord.

Questions to Ponder:

Are you prepared for the Lord's return? Are you ready today? How can you live your life in readiness? What priorities need to change? What will you be doing when he returns?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.