Be Ready

TEXT: Matthew 24:36-44; Hebrews 9:28

Just a knowledge that we are living in the last days does not make us ready for Jesus’ coming. We are commanded to watch for His coming, “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh” (Matthew 25:13). True watching is an attitude of mind and heart, which would joyfully and quickly turn from any occupation or activity to meet the Lord. In this lesson we will consider how we can be ready. It is vital to prove by our daily living that we both know and are prepared for the most exciting event of all ages—the Rapture of the Church.

QUESTIONS

1. At Jesus’ coming, the Bride of Christ will be raptured to meet Him in the air. Look up the following Scriptures and determine what qualities the Bride will have.
   Psalm 15:1-3
   Psalm 24:3-4
   Matthew 5:8
   Ephesians 5:27
   Titus 2:11-13
   Revelation 19:7-8
2. A number of sins are listed in Galatians 5:19-21, including adultery, fornication, witchcraft, and drunkenness. The sins listed are commonly accepted by many in the world today, even in some so-called religious circles. What does the Bible say about those who do such things? How do the above sins compare with those of Noah’s time?
3. Use Hebrews 9:28 and 1 John 3:2 to fill in the blanks in the following statements: The purpose of Christ’s first coming was to bear the _________________________ with His death on Calvary. To those who look for Him, He shall appear the second time without ________________________________ unto ______________________. We know that, when He shall appear, __________________________; for our bodies shall be changed to be like Christ’s glorified body. These promises apply to those who can say, “Now are we the ____________________________.”
4. Read the parable of the ten virgins given in Matthew 25:1-13. Why were some of the virgins left behind? What will it take to be a “wise virgin”? Use 1 John 1:6-7 as a supplementary Scripture in formulating your response.
5. Prior to the beginning of Jesus’ ministry at His first coming, John the Baptist preached, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord.” The message of the Gospel to mankind today anticipates Jesus’ second coming. Compare the responses of men in those days, with the responses of men today.
6. Compare Matthew 24:42-44 and 1 Thessalonians 5:6. What point do these verses make?
7. In spite of Noah’s warnings for about 120 years, life continued as before, with man’s attention diverted to things other than the coming Flood. List some things that you think capture the attention of people today, preventing them from being ready for Jesus’ return.
8. What will be the consequences of our not being ready? See Revelation 21:8.