Day 282

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Scripture

October 8—Matthew 24-25: Promises of the Christ

Observation

Leaving the temple area with his disciples, Jesus uses the occasion to teach them valuable truth about the destruction of the temple and the signs preceding the "end of the world" (24:3). Responding to the questions of his men, Jesus delivers the Olivet Discourse in which he predicts a period of "persecution such as the world has never before seen in all its history, and will never see again" (24:21) preceding Jesus' arrival "in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory" (24:30). In the light of his coming, Christ urges his disciples to be watchful and faithful.

Application

The temptation when reading a difficult passage like the Olivet Discourse is (a) to study a Bible commentary rather than the Bible, and (b) to allow the difficult parts of the passage to discourage you from applying the clear and insistent parts.

It has been said, "Some Bible students drink at the fountain of knowledge; others just gargle." Take a deep drink from God's Word today as you meditate on the truths of Matthew 24-25:

The Word of the Lord is eternally trustworthy. "Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words remain forever" (24:35).

The return of the Lord is sure, though the time of his return is unknown, "But no one knows the date and hour when the end will be" (24:36).

The will of the Lord is clear during his absence. Be ready (24:44); be wise and faithful (24:45); be about the business of heaven (24:46).

In a changing world, isn't it nice to know there are some things that never change? If you're grateful for that, tell God so right now!

Prayer

We want our faith in you, Lord, to be a living reality. Our faith is such that we are living and waiting in expectation of your soon return and in doing so we live to let the world know to be watchful for that time. But, while we exhort our faith we wait for the ultimate reward—to take our place in heaven. So, make us obedient servants of you so that your name may be glorified over all the earth. In your precious name we pray! Amen! 

Obey His Word!




© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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