Are We Watching?

 N.T.#422 "Are We Watching?"

Nov. 13, 2024 

Mark 13-Part 5

Take heed, watch and pray; for ye know not when the time is. (verse 33)

LET IT GLOW 

In our key verse above, Jesus told His disciples and us to do three things as we are awaiting His return:

1. Heed, which means beware; look; see; perceive.
2. Watch, which means keep awake.
3. Pray, which means pray to God; supplicate; worship.

As God's people, our proper attitude is to watch and pray as we face the prophetic future. This is since no one knows the timing of those events Jesus prophesied. 

We must stay awake to the fact that Jesus could rapture us out of here at any time. Therefore, we need to make sure our loved ones are ready, too.

Do you know Jesus as your Savior? He forgives our sins because He loves us so much that He died to take our place in punishment for our sins. Will you believe in Jesus today?

LET IT GROW

Did you notice the word watch is used here (verses 33-37) three times? That makes it important to us. 

Jesus likened Himself to a man who went away on a journey leaving his servants with authority to watch over things while he was gone. (verse 34) After His resurrection, Jesus would ascend into heaven and give His church authority to minister in the world on His behalf. As Christ's disciples, we must not become spiritually lethargic but remain watchful and prepared for Him to return at any time. (verse 35)(Tony Evans)

The rapture of the church will occur before the tribulation period begins. Be alert, church! (verse 37) See Matt. 24:42-44; 1 Thess. 4:13-18) 

We need not be misled by claims or speculations of what will happen. We are to not be afraid to tell people about Christ. We must stand firm by faith and not be surprised by persecution. Then we must be morally alert, obedient to the commands for living according to God's Word. Are we living right for God in a world where He is largely ignored?

This is not our home, dear ones. We need to hold things lightly so we can let go whenever God requires it.

LET IT GO

Show us what we need to let go of so it can be used for kingdom work.

Help us stay away from false teachings, stay awake for Your return, and stay alert to those who need You, Jesus.