BE READY, FOR THE SON OF MAN IS COMING

Text: LUKE 12:35-40
4 January 2009

(I) THE CORRECTING OF WRONG FOCI WITH REFERENCE TO THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST

1. The wrong focus on the time aspect

…for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Luke 12:40

2. The wrong focus on the things of the world.

a) Material things

“So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” Luke 12:21

b) Anxiety about the things of this world

“…why are you anxious for the rest?” Luke 12:26

(II) THE ESTABLISHING OF THE RIGHT FOCI WITH REFERENCE TO THE LORD’S COMING

1. Focusing on the Lord’s expectation to be ready

“Therefore you also be ready…” Luke 12:40

2. Focusing on the practical aspects

a) Preparation

“Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning” Luke 12:35

i) Alertness

ii) Preparedness

b) Attitude of a bondservant

“…those servants…” Luke 12:37

i) Love for the master

ii) Regard for the master

c) Faithfulness

i) Patiently waiting

“And you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately.” Luke 12:36

ii) Vigilantly watching

“…when he comes, will find watching…” Luke 12:37 And if he should come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so…” Luke 12:38

(III) THE BLESSINGS OF BEING READY FOR THE LORD’S RETURN

1. The promise of commendation from the Lord

“Blessed are those servants…” Luke 12:37, 38

2. The personal approval and reward from the Lord

“…Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them.” Luke 12:37