Tag: luke

The Lord’s Most Heartfelt Plea, Part 2 – Luke 13:6-9

The previous context emphasizes the necessity of repentance as the foundation of a true Christian life. It asserts that spiritual life begins when one turns to Christ with a repentant heart. True repentance leads to transformation, evidenced by a changed heart that loves God and bears fruit. The presence of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life is a key indication of genuine repentance. A self-examined life, marked by sorrow over sin and continual striving for righteousness, is essential. Without repentance, one cannot live an authentic Christian life.

Jesus’ teachings emphasize that repentance must happen immediately, leaving no room for complacency. The passage warns that worldly success does not negate the need for a repentant heart. The urgency of repentance is underscored because failing to bear fruit invites divine judgment. The unrepentant, fruitless tree symbolizes those who hear God’s Word but refuse to change. Eventually, such trees will be cut down, illustrating the finality of God’s judgment against those who reject His call to repentance.

The metaphor of the vineyard keeper presents Jesus as the intercessor between humanity and God’s judgment. Although God’s verdict is inevitable, Christ pleads for sinners to have one last opportunity to repent. However, this grace is not indefinite; it is a final chance rather than an extension of time. Scripture underscores that repentance is only possible in this life. In the afterlife, there is no second opportunity—only divine judgment remains.

The concept of “borrowed time” illustrates God’s sovereignty over life. The vineyard keeper’s request for an extra year symbolizes God’s patience, but it also highlights that time is fleeting. People cannot control when they will face divine judgment, reinforcing the urgency of repentance. Since the future is uncertain, believers must not delay in turning to God. How one responds to God’s call in this lifetime determines their eternal fate.

Jesus’ sacrifice is presented as the means of repentance and salvation. Christ’s atonement on the cross makes reconciliation with God possible, fulfilling God’s plan of redemption. Those who genuinely repent will devote themselves to God, as demonstrated by their actions. Biblical examples emphasize that true faith produces lasting change. Repentance is not a one-time act but a continuous process of transformation and devotion.

A true Christian is identified by a life that reflects Christ. Scripture urges believers to examine themselves regularly to ensure their faith is genuine. A heart that continually seeks repentance and growth in Christ bears evidence of true conversion. Those who abide in Jesus will walk as He walked, meaning they will live in obedience, humility, and love. This self-examination is essential for spiritual growth and assurance of salvation.

The passage warns against wasting time in spiritual complacency. True repentance results in divine forgiveness, as God promises to cleanse those who confess their sins. However, those who refuse to repent will face inevitable judgment. God’s justice demands that sin be accounted for, but His grace offers a way out through Christ. The choice between repentance and rebellion determines whether one receives mercy or wrath.

Ultimately, God’s final warning is clear: those who repent will experience eternal joy, while those who reject Him will face eternal condemnation. The Book of Revelation promises comfort for the redeemed and judgment for the unrepentant. Evangelism becomes a natural outflow of true repentance, as believers share the urgency of salvation with others. While time remains, Christians must strive to bear fruit, recognizing that God’s grace provides the opportunity for genuine transformation.

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The Lord’s Most Heartfelt Plea – Luke 13:6-9

This passage contains a brief but powerful parable—a heartfelt and earnest plea from the Lord for us to bear the fruit of repentance. Through this parable, Jesus is urging us to take heed of His message. He has already warned us that unless we repent, we will all perish. But repentance isn’t just about feeling sorry—it’s about change, a transformation that produces visible fruit. This is the final, serious warning.

To illustrate this, think of the warning issued by the United States to the people of Japan during World War II. They were told of the impending nuclear bomb and urged to evacuate. It was a matter of life and death, and many perished because they didn’t heed the warning. In contrast, the people of Nineveh listened to Jonah’s warning and repented, sparing their lives (Jonah 3:4-5).

Luke 13:6-9 presents a parable with two applications: one for the nation of Israel and one for the individual. The fig tree, common in Israel, symbolizes Israel itself, with the vineyard representing the nation. In the Old Testament, God judges Israel for failing to bear fruit due to sin and idolatry (Isaiah 5:2-3, Hosea 2:12). On an individual level, each sinner is like a fig tree, needing genuine repentance that bears fruit. Repentance without fruit is not true repentance.

Why must repentance bear fruit? Because God has the right to fruit. 

God has the right because everything belongs to God. Everything we have is borrowed from Him, and we are entirely dependent on His provision. Nothing is truly ours, and we cannot act outside of His authority “The earth is Yahweh’s, and everything in it.”(Psalm 24:1-2) Even our very breath belongs to God. “We brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out.” (1 Timothy 6:7) We are stewards, not owners. God owns us and created us with a purpose: to repent and bear fruit. As our Creator, He has the right to call us to this purpose. His desire is for all people to be saved, and the means He has set for salvation is through repentance.

God has the right because it’s His moral expectation. “He came seeking fruit on it and did not find any” God planted fig trees so He could have figs. He did not want apples or oranges but figs. From the beginning, bearing fruit was the original plan for Adam and Eve and all mankind (Genesis 1:28, Genesis 9:7). God is the faithful vineyard owner that took great care of the fig trees. This is why he expected to see fruit. Whether little or big, there was an expectation of fruit.

Therefore, bearing fruit is the sign we are in alignment with God and our obedience to Him (Matthew 7:16) It is the evidence of our inner nature. Before conversion we can only bear the fruit of wickedness but after we repent and are converted then we live life according to God’s will even in the face of great adversity and suffering. (Acts 20:23-24) It is what you are on the inside that produces what you have on the outside. A good tree bears good fruit. You cannot lie to your heart. Regarding the necessity to bear fruit, R. C. Sproul said, “We are justified by faith alone but not by a faith that is alone. True faith always manifests itself in the fruits of repentance and good works. Good works don’t justify us but if they’re not there, that’s evidence that there is no real faith.” This is God’s expectation of the trees He plants and cultivates.

To bear fruit, we must repent. However not all repentance is genuine. Here are some signs of fake repentance:

  • Faith without obedience – A faith that does not obey is not true faith. Eventually, it reveals itself as false. Like Esau, false repentance desires God’s blessings but does not seek true transformation through repentance (Hebrews 12:16-17).
  • Seeking Blessings, Not God – Fake repentance is self-centered. It desires God’s favor but not God Himself. It is driven by personal gain rather than a love for God.
  • Habitual or Deliberate Sin – Continuing in deliberate sin without genuine remorse is a sign of an unrepentant heart. True repentance results in a transformed life.
  • Fear in Crisis, But No Lasting Change – Some only “repent” out of fear during a crisis. Like Ahab, who tore his clothes and mourned when God pronounced judgment, but his repentance was shallow and temporary (1 Kings 22:8).
  • Mere Conviction Without Change – Repentance is more than feeling guilty or saying “I’m sorry.” It is not just avoiding a few major sins but a complete turning away from sin and self.

A. W. Pink describes true repentance as a total surrender to God: “In saving repentance, the whole soul turns to Him and says: ‘I have been a disloyal and rebellious creature. I have scorned Thy high authority and most rightful law. I will live no longer thus. I now desire and determine with all my might to serve and obey Thee as my only Lord. I subject myself unto Thee, to submit to Thy will…’”

True repentance:

  • Surrendering Everything to God – Repentance is giving up all that you are and have and accepting what God offers and God is now the central figure in your life. It is turning away from self and turning into God. As a result, every action and circumstance is an opportunity to glorify God.
  • Poor in spirit – Matthew 5:3 says the poor in spirit is true repentance. It is acknowledging there is nothing good in me but completely relying on God
  • A Change in Attitude Towards Sin – True repentance shifts from tolerating sin to hating it because sin offends God. Loving God’s Word and hating sin gives glory to Him (Psalm 119:104).
  • Does not compromise – It is not just being a Christian on Sundays but living for Christ every day, in every area of life.
  • Pursuing Sanctification – The more we realize how terrible sin is, the more we desire a pure heart (Psalm 51:10). True repentance leads to a pursuit of holiness.
  • Continual – We cannot repent or live perfectly, so true repentance is ongoing. It is a daily turning to God, recognizing our constant need for His grace.

Lastly, God has the right to punish those who do not bear fruit. “For three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree without finding any. Cut it down!“ (Luke 13:7) For three years He has given perfect and complete care, waiting patiently for fruit, yet there is none. God asks, “Why does it even use up the ground?” Not only is the unfruitful fig tree useless but they are harmful. They must be cut down because they use the ground that others could use. Bearing fruit is not neutral but detrimental to others. For example, there are those who are churched but not true Christians. Eventually, when they face correction or don’t get what they want, they turn against the church, causing disunity and attacking others. A lack of fruit will eventually reveal itself as a lack of true repentance. This is God’s final warning that He will eventually punish those who do not bear fruit.

Remember repentance is a gift of God. It is God’s litmus test to those who are truly saved or not. True repentance bears fruit.  It is God’s right to expect the fruit of repentance. He has the right because we belong to Him. It is also God’s right to expect the fruit of repentance. He has the right to punish when there is no fruit as He intended and desired. This is Jesus’ earnest plea to us in order to avoid God’s righteous judgement and receive His mercy. Repent.

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Unless You Repent – Luke 13:1-5

Jesus addresses the ultimate problem that all people face—sin and its consequences. He teaches that sinners are under a curse, which separates them from God’s love and leads to eternal condemnation. This harsh reality was made clear when Jesus warned that no one could escape divine judgment without full payment for their sins (Luke 12:59). In response, He emphasizes the necessity of repentance as the only way to be reconciled with God and avoid eternal punishment.

Jesus uses the word “perish” to highlight the fate of those who die without repenting. This does not mean annihilation but rather an eternal state of ruin and separation from God. Every person is already under divine judgment (John 3:18), and without repentance, they remain in that condemned state. The inevitability of death underscores the urgency of repentance—no one can escape it, and without Christ, they will face eternal consequences.

Life is unpredictable, and no one knows what tomorrow holds. Self-confidence or worldly success cannot guarantee protection from death or divine judgment. Many assume that misfortune happens due to karma or random fate, but Jesus makes it clear that sin is the real cause of perishing. The only antidote to this fate is found in Christ, who conquered death through His resurrection, offering salvation to all who repent and believe in Him.

Repentance is more than a mere confession of sin; it is a transformation of both heart and mind. It requires turning away from sin and turning toward God in obedience. True repentance produces a deep awareness of sin’s offensiveness to God, leading to a genuine desire for righteousness. This change is not merely external but involves a fundamental shift in how a person sees God, themselves, and their purpose in life.

Many theologians have described repentance as a radical transformation. Jeremy Walker calls it a complete change of heart and life, while the Westminster Shorter Catechism describes it as a saving grace that leads to obedience. A.W. Pink emphasizes that repentance is a supernatural revelation from God, revealing the gravity of sin and compelling the sinner to turn to Him. C.H. Spurgeon warns that repentance must be total—holding on to even one sin prevents true transformation.

True repentance is marked by a complete surrender of all sin and a willingness to obey God. It is not simply an emotional response but a lifelong commitment to righteousness. The Apostle Paul commends the Thessalonians for turning from idols to serve the living God (1 Thess. 1:9). As A.W. Pink states, repentance leads to a holy hatred of sin and a genuine desire to follow God’s commands.

Recognizing personal responsibility for Christ’s crucifixion is an essential part of true repentance. Many distance themselves from those who physically crucified Jesus, such as Pontius Pilate and the Roman soldiers, but Scripture teaches that all sinners share in this guilt (Acts 2:36-37). Without repentance, people cannot truly understand the weight of their sin or receive the mercy and forgiveness God offers through Christ.

Repentance is inseparable from genuine faith and conversion. Those who refuse to repent cannot be the “good soil” in the Parable of the Sower (Mark 4:20) or experience true transformation. Conversion requires both repentance from sin and faith in Jesus Christ. Yet, many modern churches neglect to preach repentance, despite its clear biblical necessity. Ultimately, without repentance, no one can be saved—Jesus’ warning remains true: “Unless you repent, you will likewise perish.”

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Consider Jesus Before It’s Too Late – Luke 12:56-59

The message of this passage is both clear and serious. Jesus, out of love, delivers a strong warning—because He does not desire for anyone to meet judgment and be cast into hell. He urges all people to submit to Him now, to receive His mercy before facing His judgment.

A modern example of ignoring this warning is President Jimmy Carter. Though praised as a “born-again Christian”, his liberal policies—especially regarding feminism and same-sex marriage—revealed a different reality. In the end, Carter believed in his own version of Jesus rather than the true Christ revealed in Scripture. One day, like everyone else, he will stand before God’s throne in judgment. Sadly, at his passing, there was no mention of this ultimate reality. Whether a world leader or an average person, we all have one life and will face the same judgment. There is only one way to avoid this destiny before it is too late.

In Luke 12:54-59, Jesus speaks to a large crowd—many of whom followed Him for miracles and food. Among them were also His disciples. To this audience, Jesus delivers three warnings that remain just as relevant today.

First Warning: Failure to examine Jesus for yourself will result in hell.

Jesus asks a crucial question: “Why do you not even judge for yourselves what is right?” (Luke 12:57) This is not a trivial question, it is a matter of life and death. Jesus is the Creator, the One who sustains all things, and no one is independent of Him. Everything about Jesus – His birth, life, teachings, and miracles – points to His identity as the prophesied Messiah, the Son of God. Consider His works: He walked on water. He fed the 4,000 and the 5,000. He raised the dead. He healed the sick, the lame, and the lepers. He forgave sins and cast out demons. He taught the truth of God like no one else. Everything He did pointed to His identity as the Son of God (John 6:14, Deuteronomy 18:15). Jesus is the Prophet we must listen to. Yet, people in His day, like people today, refused to believe. Nicodemus understood that Jesus came from God (John 3:1-2), but the crowds misunderstood Him, trapped in their self-righteousness.

Why do people reject Christ? Not because of a lack of evidence, but because of unwillingness. They make excuses. “There is no God.” “Jesus was just a madman.” “Jesus was just a good moral teacher.” None of these are true. Jesus is Lord (Philippians 2:9-11). There is still hope while you are alive. But once you die, it is too late—you will meet the Lord in judgment. So, heed His warning now.

Second Warning: You Must Settle Your Debt with God Before It’s Too Late

Jesus illustrates this with a legal analogy in Luke 12:58. A debtor who refuses to repay his creditor is dragged before the judge. He has to settle on the way to the judge before he gets to court.  Because if he does not, he will definitely be thrown into prison with no escape. His only hope is to settle before he gets to the judge. This parallels the Great White Throne Judgment described in Revelation 20:11-15—where all people will stand before God, their deeds laid open like a book, and those found guilty will be cast into hell. The reality is this: we are all debtors. We are born sinners (Psalm 51:5, Romans 5:12). Our sin is an ever-growing debt we can never repay. As Charles Spurgeon put it: “There is no hope for the sinner in God’s court.” The only hope is to settle now, before reaching judgment.

How can we settle our debt? Through Christ.

  • Colossians 2:14 – Our sin is a legal debt before God. But Jesus took that debt upon Himself, nailed it to the cross, and canceled it.
  • 1 John 2:2 – Jesus is the atoning sacrifice for our sins.
  • 1 Timothy 2:5 – He is the mediator between sinners and God.

There is only one way to settle your debt and that is through faith in Jesus Christ.

Third Warning: The reality of eternal damnation when you fail to settle.

Jesus warns in Luke 12:59, “You will not get out until you have paid the last penny.” There is no leniency, no second chances, and no release for good behavior. Why? Because the debt of sin is infinite. Even one sin is enough to condemn you forever, yet we have countless sins. Furthermore, hell is not a place of repentance. Those in hell neither can nor want to pay back their sin. Their rebellion against God continues eternally.

Jesus clearly taught the reality of hell:

  • It is a real place of physical and spiritual torment (Luke 13:28).
  • Annihilationism is a lie. If hell were just “nothingness,” why would Jesus have died to save us from it?
  • God, not Satan, created hell, and Satan himself will be tormented there forever.
  • Every person will be resurrected, and God’s judgment will determine their eternal destiny.

False hopes like purgatory are unbiblical. The Bible gives no indication of a place where sinners can earn their way to heaven after death. Instead, Hebrews 9:27-28 states that people die once and then face judgment. Only those who have been covered by Jesus’ sacrifice will be saved.

Conclusion:

This is a somber and sorrowful message. It forces us to think about our own future and that of our loved ones.  The answer is clear: only one thing will matter—whether or not you have settled your debt with God through Christ.

Periodically you face decisions that will alter the course of your life—marriage, employment, relocation, or whatever. When you do, think ahead to the end of your life. Picture yourself on a rocking chair. You’re an old man or woman looking back on life. You don’t get to do it over again. What’s going to be important to you at that point? When you are at death’s door and about to give God an account for your life, what do you want to show for yourself? You don’t want to be in that rocking chair having neglected biblical priorities or having shredded your family with excessive devotion to business, ministry, or a life of sin.  Don’t reach the end with, “Oh, God, I’ve wasted it all.” Christian or non-Christian alike: That day of reckoning is coming. Seek Christ while there is time.” – Don Green

Jesus’ warnings are given out of love. He is both Savior and Judge. Right now, He offers mercy. But when He comes again, He will bring judgment. Do not delay. Heed His warnings. Examine Christ, trust in Him, and settle your debt before it is too late.

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How Is It Going Spiritually? Part 2 – Luke 12:54-56

Christians are called to live a sanctified, holy life, grounded in faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. This faith stems from the assurance of his return and the certainty of God’s judgment. Christ’s first coming was meant to divide and set apart those who would follow him, marking a decisive gospel call. It is crucial to comprehend this purpose and discern the current time in anticipation of his second coming. While discernment is essential and available to all, many will fail to recognize Christ’s return, ultimately leading to their destruction.

In his teaching, Jesus addressed both believers and unbelievers, illustrating the importance of spiritual discernment using natural signs. He referenced people’s ability to predict weather patterns, such as rain or heat, based on observable signs in nature. Although they mastered these earthly interpretations, they failed to apply similar discernment to spiritual truths. This failure to recognize the signs of Christ’s coming underscores a lack of preparedness for deeper spiritual realities. Jesus’ illustration was meant to highlight the disparity between their physical and spiritual awareness.

Unbelievers often form their faith based on relative and temporal matters, like natural phenomena, while rejecting the absolute truth of Christ’s identity. Despite Jesus providing substantial evidence of his messiahship, unbelievers hypocritically demanded more proof. They were willing to draw firm conclusions from minimal evidence in earthly matters but refused to acknowledge the overwhelming evidence of Jesus’ divinity. Their rejection reflects not only spiritual blindness but also a deliberate resistance to the truth he embodied.

The term “present time” in Jesus’ teaching refers to the Greek word kairos, signifying a significant event or season, rather than chronos, which pertains to chronological time. This present time heralded the kingdom of heaven through Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection, which fulfilled Scripture and confirmed him as the promised Messiah. His first coming, sacrifice on the cross, and resurrection on the third day provided undeniable evidence of God’s redemptive plan. Yet, many failed to see these signs and recognize Jesus as God incarnate.

The rejection of Jesus often stemmed from misconceptions about the Messiah’s role. Under Roman rule, many Jews anticipated a political savior who would overthrow their oppressors with power and might. Jesus’ mission as the Lamb of God, sacrificing himself for humanity’s sins, clashed with these expectations. Similarly, in modern society, people often reject the biblical Jesus because he does not align with their personal ideals. Furthermore, Jesus exposed sin and hypocrisy, particularly among religious leaders like the Pharisees and Sadducees, which led to further rejection. This rejection highlights the broader struggle between living for the gospel and succumbing to worldly concerns.

The call to repentance and faith in Jesus remains critical today. Believers must recognize the present time, turn from sin, and trust in Christ while working out their salvation with humility. While the elect will inevitably come to faith regardless of their circumstances, others persist in unbelief, exemplified by Judas Iscariot. As we await Christ’s return, we must prepare for the trials ahead, remaining steadfast in faith and living in anticipation of the salvation promised through Jesus Christ.

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Get Ready: The Lord is Coming, Part 6 – Luke 12:45-48

Jesus warns us to be prepared for His return. This doesn’t mean living perfectly, but faithfully, which means trusting and obeying God. The parable of the faithful and unfaithful servants in Luke 12:42-48 illustrates this point. Some may think that because Jesus has ascended to heaven He is delaying His return. This can cause laziness and worldliness. However, Jesus has left His mission in our hands and the Holy Spirit empowers us to carry it out.  The Holy Spirit is with us, guiding us in our daily walk and speaking to us through Scripture, the inspired and living Word of God.

There are two kinds of servants described in this passage:

  • The faithful servant is like the manager who actively applies his faith to every situation, diligently fulfilling his master’s will. A good example of this kind of servant is Eliezer from Genesis 24:12, who demonstrates his loyalty to Abraham even when he is away from his master.
  • The unfaithful servant, described as a slave, is passive, disobedient, and hypocritical. He may appear faithful when the master is present, but his heart is far from God. He is like those described in Isaiah 15:8 who honor God with their lips but whose hearts are far from Him. He deceives himself into thinking the master will delay his return and lives according to his own selfish desires. He mistreats others and indulges in sin, much like the rich fool in Luke 12:19 who lived for his own pleasure, thinking he had many years to come.  He claims ownership of his life instead of surrendering to God.

The consequences for the unfaithful servant are severe. Jesus says His return will be sudden and unexpected, like a “sucker punch”, catching the unfaithful servant in his sin. Jesus will personally punish him, cutting him to pieces and assigning him a place in hell. Hell does not belong to Satan but to Jesus and Jesus manages hell for all eternity. This severe punishment is a result of the wicked servant’s hypocrisy, his rejection of Jesus’ authority, and his disregard for Jesus’ sacrifice. Jesus is a just judge and those who know My will but choose to disobey will receive a harsher punishment. No one is without excuse. God’s law is revealed through creation, and even those who do not know Jesus personally recognize God’s existence. Consider the historical suffering of the Jewish people. They were the chosen people and received God’s will through the Law of Moses, yet they rejected it and faced severe consequences. This demonstrates that greater knowledge results in greater accountability before God.

True change is only possible through the Gospel. Those who understand and receive the Gospel will be interested in Christ’s return, eagerly awaiting His coming.  The unfaithful servant only received the Gospel in word, not allowing the power of the Holy Spirit to transform his heart. The Gospel is good news, and if you know this good news, you will be a source of it for others. Living in a nation that offers many freedoms and resources only increases your responsibility to God.  Therefore, I urge you to examine your lives and ensure that you are not living like an unfaithful servant.  Remember that God is unchanging in His holiness and demands perfection from His people. 

Jesus’ imminent return should be a driving force in your life, motivating you to live faithfully and diligently for Him. Meditate on Jesus’ return continually, allowing it to guide your steps.  This is how you can finish your race with faithfulness, like the apostle Paul, who declared, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).

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Get Ready: The Lord is Coming, Part 4 – Luke 12:40-48

We are continuing our series on being ready for the Lord’s return. “You too be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect”. Jesus starts addressing the apostles directly. “You too”. The apostles were hand-picked and specifically called for the purpose of the gospel. They are spiritual leaders so their salvation is not in doubt (Acts 1:21-22). Not everyone could be called an apostle. The condition of the apostles has been around since John the Baptist and a witness of the resurrection. To this group of apostles, Jesus tells them they also need to be ready.

In response, Peter asks if the parable is for the apostles or for everyone else? Peter has a hard time receiving what Jesus is saying. They are the apostles so of course they are ready. The apostles were used to being treated specially (Matthew 13:10-12). 

Jesus gives a statement of who is in vs out. Who is ready and who is not. Who will be rewarded and who will be punished. This should be taken seriously and it is an important doctrine. We are not saved by believing in Jesus’ return and yet knowing His return encourages us to live faithfully. There are clear signs between those who are driven by this doctrine vs those who are not. Remembering Jesus will return keeps us near Jesus Christ and matures us. Apply this doctrine to your life every day and you will be different. That’s what the early church did. Sadly, the modern church has abandoned this doctrine or pushed it to the background.

Who will be in when Jesus returns? The faithful and prudent steward.

Faithful – being genuinely redeemed

  • Our faithfulness starts with our true faith. Because God is faithful we are faithful. True belongs to those who repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.
  • To believe means always believing in all circumstances. In Acts 2:42, we see a continual devotion to fellowship, breaking of bread, praying, and God’s word.

Prudent – being wise, understanding, and sensible.

  • Prudent people apply their faith to their lives. The application of faith is wisdom.
  • Faith’s result is prudence because salvation is not theoretical but actual. We possess Jesus Christ and demonstrate it practically by our wisdom.
  • Example: In Acts 16:24-25, after being beaten and thrown into jail, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God. Their salvation was real and they proved it.
  • The Christian is justified by faith and proven by sanctification

Steward – to manage the household

  • Many commentaries say the steward is the church leader. An example is 1 Peter 5:1-4 The church elders must shepherd the flock and be good stewards until Jesus returns.
  • However, the steward can also refer to every Christian because every Christian is God’s steward. We are all God’s servants

As a reward to the faithful and prudent steward, the master would give authority over the goods. The steward should do what the master commands faithfully and wisely, thinking of the glorious reward.

What does the steward do?

  1. Obeys the great commission which is to share the gospel and make disciples. We should not forget the Lord’s charge and constantly pursue the spreading of the gospel in creative ways
  2. Uses their spiritual gift – Everyone is given a spiritual gift by the Holy Spirit. It is a mark of salvation (1 Peter 4:10). A good steward will know and use your spiritual gift until Jesus comes

Those who are faithful stewards are blessed. The root of the word ‘blessed’ is approval. If you are blessed then you are approved by Jesus. The approval invokes imagery of a seal used to officially affirm the content held within. The ones who are blessed are the workers whom the master finds working. We don’t know when the master is coming which means we must start working from now on until He returns. Focus on what Jesus says and the fact that He is coming. Prioritize being ready for His coming and we will be blessed at His return.

In verse 44, Jesus says, “Truly I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions” Whenever Jesus says “Truly I say to you” it is for emphasis and certainty of promise. Without a doubt, we have a guaranteed prize, a heavenly reward. On earth, every reward is comparatively small to our heavenly reward. Surprisingly, those small rewards still make us happy but only temporarily. No matter how happy or how long or great something is on earth it is eventually tainted with sadness. However, our heavenly reward will be great and everlasting. There will be no sorrow at all in heaven, only everlasting joy. So our prayer is that every member of our church would be faithful. Wrestle with Jesus’ promises and live accordingly.

Then Jesus switches his attention to those who are not prepared in verse 45. The unfaithful steward changes his behavior when the master leaves. He has another heart, a heart of hypocrisy which listens to himself instead of his master. He tells himself that “my master will be a long time coming” in contradiction to Jesus saying He will come soon. This is presumptuous and against God’s word. It is arrogant and acting as if they know more than God. As a result, the unfaithful steward beats the other servants. This shows their sinful self-will and their lack of repentance or salvation. Salvation is denying yourself, taking up your cross, and following Jesus. Lastly, they eat and drink and get drunk. This is succumbing to the pleasures and pursuits of the world instead of heaven. It is a worldly spirit inside this steward and not the Spirit of God (Eph 5:18).  

The master will come on a day when the unfaithful steward does not expect and at an hour he does not know (Luke 12:37-38, Mt 27:43, 1 Thess 5:3). When he returns and finds the unfaithful steward, He will execute just and divine punishment. The master will cut him in pieces (a severe and painful punishment) and assign him a place with the unbelievers (they will be cast into hell). This is a warning to everyone. If you are not faithful now then you are in danger. Hell is the horrifying place marked by gnashing of teeth (Matthew 13:41-42). It will be eternal pain and sorrow.

The life we have now is our duty to be ready and to prepare for Jesus’ coming.  We are all busy. Our lives are hectic and filled with many things. But we must be faithful in our busyness. This life is our pilgrimage of preparation. Jesus is coming back. Center our lives await Jesus’ return and apply His promise every day.

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Get Ready: The Lord is Coming, Part 3 – Luke 12:39-40

Jesus tells us no one knows exactly when He is coming. He will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night, which means we must always be ready and prepared to receive Him when He comes. The key question is: Are you ready? If He were to come tonight, would you be prepared? (1 Thessalonians 5:14). Whether you are a strong or weak Christian, you must be ready.

Some might think that Jesus’ return is a broken promise or far off because it has not happened yet. Maybe we don’t need to be prepared because His return is unlikely to be soon. The truth is, even if He is not coming soon, you are at least going to Him soon. Even if it does not seem like Jesus is coming, we know He will come unexpectedly. So we must prepare ourselves daily. There are many theological camps that differ on the order of the events in Revelation, all the major views at least agree that Jesus is coming.

No one knows when Jesus is coming. Everyone who has tried to predict the date has been wrong. While we don’t know the timing, we know the manner. He will come in the air before the seven years of great tribulation. The rapture will be when Jesus snatches up all the believers to Himself before He judges the earth (1 Thessalonians 4:17).

The whole universe is waiting for Jesus’ return (Romans 8:19). To help His disciples understand His return, Jesus continues to use the illustration of the master and servant. This illustration is used by Jesus multiple times and emphasizes the nature of His return.

A thief always comes when you least expect it, waiting for a moment of relaxation or distraction. If you knew the thief’s timing, you would be ready. Since no one knows, the only way to be prepared is to live in constant readiness. We should take Jesus’ warning seriously. In this parable, the thief is Jesus Christ. Human thieves sometimes fail to be secretive but Jesus never fails.

The Son of Man is coming. The title Son of Man highlights Jesus’ humanity. However, Jesus is no ordinary man but the Son of Man spoken of in Daniel 7:13-14. He is the man in whom the fullness of Deity dwells (Col 2:9). He is the Son of Man who the one who died and rose again, is full of might, dominion, and glory, will come in glory and terror to bring His wrath upon His enemies.

“The phrase “is coming” in the original language is in the progressive present tense. This means His coming began as soon as He ascended into heaven (Acts 1:11; 1 John 2:18). This means Jesus coming is guaranteed because it has already begun. He is coming but He is also patient. He is waiting for the repentance of sinners. So this is a warning to unbelievers to repent and be saved. Believe in Jesus before it is too late.

But this is also a message to the believers. “You too” is directed at the Christians. Christian be ready! Do not be distracted by the world. Too many Christians are not ready because they love the world (Luke 9:26). “Remember Lot’s wife” (Luke 17:32) who looked back. Remember what happened in the days of Noah where they ignored Noah’s preaching and were caught eating and drinking when the floods came (Matthew 24:37-38). The problem is that many of us wish for a comfortable and enjoyable life. This friendliness and attraction to the world is poisonous sugar. Loving the world is hostility towards God (James 4:4). Not loving the world is our dutiful suffering as Christians. If you are worldly, then you are not ready.

Many Christians take Jesus’ warning too lightly. They do not expect Jesus’ coming just like Jesus said (Luke 12:19-20). Jesus will come suddenly and demand your very soul.

There are those who are wrongfully ready. They try to predict Jesus’ coming. They are not of the Holy Spirit but of another spirit, a lying spirit. That is why they always end up wrong and as heretics. Do not listen to those who claim to know when Jesus is coming. They have never been right and will never be right. Jesus’ coming is not a Biblical exam or a matter of knowledge. We are simply called to be ready. Like the boy who cried wolf, those who keep claiming to know actually end up hurting the reputation of the church. So trying to find out when Jesus is coming is not being ready.

The most important thing to being ready is being a Christian. Being a Christian means Jesus is central to your life. He is everything. Without Jesus, a Christian is nothing. Jesus is not merely someone special but Jesus is your Lord for whom you risk everything (Philippians 3:8). Ultimately for the Christian, God is living in you. They are made new by Christ, transformed, and given new life, all in Christ.

The Christian always lives by faith. They have been crucified with Christ and the life they live they live by faith in the Son of God. (Galatians 2:20). That is why they can suffer for Christ’s sake (Romans 8:18). They enjoy God and give Him all the glory in all circumstances (1 Corinthians 10:31) They are loyal to God and remain committed to Him (1 Corinthians 15:58). The Christian obeys God’s commandments and live according to God’s purpose (Colossians 3:18-21, Ephesians 6:3-9)

How to be ready? By being a Christian and living the Christian faith, being fully satisfied with Christ, and following Jesus Christ. And do this always. Then either when Jesus comes or at the end of your life, you can claim like Apostle Paul, you have run the race and you are ready to meet the Lord.

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Get Ready: The Lord is Coming, Part 2 – Luke 12:37-38

The blessing for the Christian is rooted in their relationship with Christ as His devoted servant. Jesus describes His disciples as slaves, a term emphasizing their complete dedication to Him through faith. Their lives are marked by a deep desire to please their Master by hearing and obeying His commands. They welcome His lordship and live in anticipation of His return, preparing themselves through a posture of servanthood and readiness.

The Master, in turn, is eager to bless His faithful servants. His determination is evident in His efforts to find those who exhibit the marks of devotion. Just as the shepherds were given a sign to recognize Jesus in the manger, there are spiritual signs that identify the faithful servants who are prepared to partake in heavenly blessings. These signs set them apart as those awaiting the Lord’s return with eager anticipation.

A hallmark of these faithful servants is their vigilance—they remain spiritually awake and alert. This attentiveness is demonstrated by their commitment to Scripture, which is described as a treasure inspired by the Holy Spirit. Through regular engagement with God’s Word, believers deepen their understanding of the Lord and reveal their spiritual condition. This active relationship with Scripture is vital preparation for meeting the Master when He comes.

Prayer is another crucial way Christians prepare for Christ’s return. Prayer reveals the health of a believer’s spiritual life, as it involves opening one’s heart and mind to the Lord. Though it can be a struggle, prayer is a privilege that demonstrates faith. Neglecting prayer weakens spiritual vitality, much like sleep deprivation affects physical health. True believers persevere in prayer, recognizing its importance for their relationship with God.

Faithfulness is a defining trait of those who remain alert and ready for the Lord’s return. Jesus highlights qualities such as integrity, reliability, and a willingness to be used by God. This faithfulness is not self-generated but inherited from God, who is always faithful. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, believers can live in a way that glorifies God and maintains their readiness for His return.

The reward for faithful servants is extraordinary. Jesus promises to serve those who have been vigilant, inviting them to recline at His table while He ministers to them. This act reflects the humility and love of the Master, who delights in blessing those who have been steadfast in their devotion and alertness.

Believers are called to live in constant readiness for the Master’s return. This involves abiding diligently in God’s Word and maintaining a fervent prayer life. These practices not only prepare Christians for Christ’s coming but also sustain their faith and strengthen their spiritual health as they navigate daily life.

The urgency of this call is emphasized in Mark 13:35-37, where Jesus warns His followers to stay awake, as the exact timing of His return is unknown. Christians must resist spiritual complacency and remain vigilant, living with an unwavering focus on their faith and a readiness to meet their Master at any moment.

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Get Ready: The Lord is Coming – Luke 12:35-37

Jesus begins to shed light on His second coming. His first coming had a wonderful result and we can be assured that His next coming will happen and have a glorious result as well. So Jesus warns us to be prepared for His eventual return. We don’t know when but we do know for sure He is coming.

Why did Jesus bring up His second coming now? This topic seems out of context. He just told every believer not to worry. Those who are full of worries are always looking at their situation. They are without hope. Jesus gives us all hope by telling us about His second coming so that those who are worried may look forward to it. Also, Jesus teaches, “Where your treasure is, there your heart is also”. We lay up our treasures in the kingdom of God based on Jesus’ return.

Is he really coming? Yes, without a doubt. How do we know Jesus will return?

Jesus must return to complete the work He began in His first coming. He is alive and the Son of God cannot lie. Therefore Mark 13:26 will happen according to what Jesus said. Is Jesus really alive? Every other religion’s leader has died and remains dead. However, every disciple of Jesus confirmed Jesus to be alive and witnessed His ascension. He is the Creator, not the creature. He conquered sin and death. He will finish His work of salvation and bring all the elect to glory.

Jesus is coming to bring justice. Men have practiced injustice and many people have suffered injustices. No one is perfect but there are those who have been abused or oppressed unjustly. An example of this is the aborted babies. Every year, millions of babies are murdered. Who will right the wrongs? Who will bring justice to those babies? Not just the babies but all the people who have been treated wrongly especially the church. Who will punish Satan? Jesus will judge everyone including Satan according to their deeds (Rev 20:12). Many Christians have been persecuted and martyred for Christ. It still happens today in parts of the world where Christ is hated. William Tyndall was burned alive at the stake. His crime was simply to translate the Bible into English. For the sake of those treated unjustly, Jesus will return to bring true and final justice.

Scripture says Jesus is coming. If the Bible says and Jesus says then it is the truth. Scripture is sufficient. It is God’s word and by God’s authority in the Scripture, we know Jesus is coming. God’s word cannot be broken (Matthew 26:54).

The second coming will be spectacular. There are no words to describe Jesus coming from heaven with trumpet sounds flanked by hosts of angels. It will be the most exciting moment in history.

Why are Christians not excited?

  • They have bad theology such as preterists. Preterists believe Jesus already came back around 70 AD. Hyper-preterists believe based on Matthew 24:34 that all Biblical prophecies have been fulfilled a long time ago. Their bad theology results in denying Jesus’ future coming because they think it already happened. They also deny future bodily resurrection and the future final judgment. Revelation is only symbolic. So nothing to be excited about.
  • Hyper-sensationalism. They only focus on when Jesus is coming. They think they can predict Jesus’s coming based on signs or visions. An example is when a group thought Jesus would come in 1988. People sold everything and gave up on their normal lives. Jesus did not come in 1988. Everyone who has committed to a particular date has ended in failure, heresy, and ruin. Apostle Paul believed Jesus was coming soon and it motivated his faith. He desired to be more like Christ. This is the healthy understanding of Jesus’ coming. We don’t know when but He is coming.
  • Christians can be ignorant and indifferent to Jesus’ coming. They are too busy with their daily lives. Whatever happens, happens. They care more about their earthly life instead of Jesus’ coming.

We must be excited for Jesus’ second coming. The second coming will be different from the first coming. The first coming brought justification and sanctification. The second coming will complete our salvation with glorification. As a born-again Christ, our hope and excitement is for the second coming when we will be truly rid of our sin and dwell with God face to face. The Second coming will be many things, including the end of history and the beginning of eternity with a new heaven and a new earth. It will be a marriage celebration with the Groom (Jesus) and the Bride (the church) together. It will be amazing. It will be brighter, greater, and last forever. We let our worries of this world overshadow the greatness of the second coming.

So Jesus says, “Gird up your loins and keep your lamps lit.” Girding up your loins means keeping yourself in a perpetual state of readiness. We should continually be aware of and ready for His second coming. Be on the lookout and prepared to take quick action. It’s too late to gird up your loins once you hear the trumpet sound. You need to be ready before the moment happens (Exodus 12:11).

We must gird up our minds. Our minds are sluggish and drunk on the world. We need the spirit of pilgrims which is always moving forward and pressing onward. Remember the parable of ten virgins who were waiting for the groom to appear. Five virgins were prepared with lots of oil. This was their preparation and readiness.

We must gird up our lifestyle. We have too much clutter and too many distractions in our lives. As Christians, we should see our lives through the eyes of God and we should discern what can be removed from our lives.

Jesus says “Keep your lamps lit”. This is so you can see in the night when something happens. The Word of God is your lamp. By God’s word, we know God’s mind and will. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path”. Submitting our lives to God’s word is how we keep our lamps lit.

Trying to get ready when Jesus comes is too late. Keep thinking about the second coming while remembering the first coming. We look back at the cross so that we look joyfully forward to the Great White Throne. Another benefit is that the present will seem small and temporary.

So are you ready? Are you ready for Jesus to come back again? The servants are waiting and expecting. Waiting can be boring. But if you have high expectations then waiting becomes exciting. We have the highest of expectations and can be excited.

Jesus will come through the door. Thieves come through some other way (John 10:1). But the waiting servant can recognize their master right away because they love Him. No one recognized Jesus after He was resurrected but Apostle John did through love (John 21:7). The Christian loves Jesus and will know Jesus by their love. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve gone to church or what you’ve done. You must love Him. If you love Jesus you will be ready and waiting for His coming. Jesus loves you and His love for you will never fail. Be ready.

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