To some, the return of Jesus seems like a myth. To others, it appears to be far off. And then there are those who are so captivated with the subject of the Second Coming, that they are frozen with fear. And yet, as we come toward the second half of Luke 12, we learn that the return of Jesus is a truth that should motivate us and encourage us. Jesus’ visible, physical, and triumphant return is a certainty, and even though we don’t know the day or the hour, it should propel us to be about the work of the Kingdom now.
Jesus shares two parables in this section of Scripture. We learn from the posture of good and faithful servants that we are to be waiting in expectation. And then we learn from the actions of the good and faithful steward that we are to be laboring with hope. We are to be those who recognize His ownership over all our lives, and that He is using us to bring about the reality of the Kingdom.
We need to remember, the Lord can come, even today. He is the one who can bring about a global reformation and harvest of souls. And He has placed us strategically where He has so that we can be part of this great work. Let us learn to watch and wait in these last days with faithfulness.
To help you with your study of this topic, we are also including the study questions prepared each week for our congregation. May the Lord use them, and the sermon, to be a blessing to you. You will find them, as well as a short prayer, directly below the audio link.
Watching and Waiting in these Last Days
Luke 12:35-48
Series: Luke – A Prescription for Doubtful Souls
Pastor James McDonald
- From verses 35-36, what are the characteristics of one who is waiting for Jesus to return?
- What blessing is promised for those who wait faithfully? How has Jesus already modeled this?
- How is the metaphor of the thief set apart from the other metaphors of watchfulness?
- Should a Christian be surprised by the coming of the Lord? Defend your answer from the Bible.
- What might have been the source for Peter’s concern? How is this reflected in our lives?
- How are stewards and servants different? How are they the same?
- In what way do you see yourself as a steward?
- What is the severe warning in verses 45 and 46? What does this say of the visible and invisible church?
- Consider your life. What has God given you? Are you using God’s gifts in light of the return of Jesus?
Almighty Father, You are the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. You have promised repeatedly in Your Word that your Son, who is our Lord and King, will return; yet, we often think and act without considering the reality of that blessed event. Instead of faithfully serving, waiting, and watching with anticipation, and living our lives, and using the resources You have given us for Your Kingdom purposes, we often consider ourselves the true “master.” We act selfishly, seemingly ignorant of the promise of Jesus’ return. Lord, forgive us. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, help us to live in the light of the promise of Jesus’ glorious return. May we prove to be faithful servants and stewards as we wait and watch for that magnificent day. In Jesus name, Amen!
