Living in the Last Days: Watch and Be Sober
Minister: |
Rev. Ronald Van Overloop |
Date: |
3/20/2016 PM
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Text:
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I Thessalonians 5:5-8
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Psalters: |
394, 139, 353, 92 |
- The two positions re. the day.
- The “day” of the Lord and of Christ contains numerous events: tribulation, Jesus’ appearance, the resurrection, judgment.
- Old Testament speaks of the “day of the Lord” as a time of judgment and wrath (Isa. 2:12,19; Joel 2:1,2; Amos 5:18-20; Zeph. 1:9,12,14-16,18; 2:3) referring to impending historical judgments and to His final judgment.
- The “day of Christ” is one of reward and blessing (I Cor. 1:8; II Cor. 1:14; Phil. 1:6; 2:16).
- There are those who are in spiritual darkness (both inside them and the live in darkness) concerning the coming of this day.
- But the “brethren” are “all the children of light and the children of the day.”
- “All” (5) emphasizes that this is true for every believer in Thessalonica – no believer is excepted.
- They are “not of the night nor of the darkness,” i.e., they do not belong to nor owned by darkness nor the night.
- Our calling as children of light and of the day.
- “Not sleep” but “be sober.”
- One who is sleeping is unaware of external circumstances – spiritually insensitive.
- One who is sober is alert and on guard, even aware of the advances of drowsiness. He is wary of spiritual dangers.
- “Watch” is to be a sentinel, attentive, to give strict attention to, cautious, takes heed so not surprised.
- To be sober is to take action: arming oneself as a soldier with breastplate and helmet (defenses to protect vital organs).
- “Hope” - our thoughts are focused on the expectation of and longing for the completion of our salvation.
- Faith (joined to Christ) and love (His powerful love for us) and hope (eager anticipation of our reserved inheritance.
- Faith, hope and love are the powerful virtues we exercise when aware the day of the Lord and our Lord’s return.
- Live your life aware of the reality of Jesus coming.