Living in the Last Days: Watch and Be Sober

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