Grab the Door Handle
It's Time
February 4, 2018
Rev. Gabe Sylvia
Jesus calls us to be specifically ready for his return by being converted, living in expectant anticipation, and faithfully working while we wait, because the Day of the Lord brings cosmic judgment for the unprepared and vindication for the faithful.
Summary
Using Mark 13 (second half) and personal illustration, the sermon urges concrete readiness for Christ’s return: conversion of heart, continual anticipation, and faithful service. The Day of the Lord is described as both a glorious gathering and vindication for the elect and a fearful day of judgment for unbelievers, with cosmic signs and the warning of the fig tree to illustrate nearness. This expectation should shape every area of life—speech, time, money, and obedience—echoing the servant-parable in Matthew to be faithful in our appointed work. The preacher closes by acknowledging both longing and fear for that day and prays that anticipation would motivate daily holiness.
Key Points
- Personal anecdote: a very public marriage proposal at an Army football game illustrated grace amid embarrassment.
- Context: this sermon continues Mark 13 and shifts from general watchfulness to specific readiness for Christ’s return.
- Three marks of readiness: 1) conversion, 2) anticipating his return, 3) working faithfully while we wait.
- The Day of the Lord: cosmic signs (darkened sun, falling stars) and a day of judgment for unbelievers and vindication for the faithful.
- Fig tree lesson: signs teach us to discern nearness and live accordingly.
- Practical implication: what we believe, say, and how we spend time and money will be judged—true hope produces obedience.
- Matthew’s servant-parable applied: be faithful stewards, each doing their appointed work, being conformed to Christ.
- Pastoral close: both longing and reverent fear of his return should move us daily; pray for hopeful, motivating expectation.
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