WHEN SHALL THESE THINGS BE? WHAT SHALL BE THE SIGNS OF THY COMING AND THE END OF THE WORLD? Matt. 24:3-13, Mk. 13:3-13, Lk. 21:7-19, 20-24…4
Key: SCHAFF: “When the Lord open his mouth, we should open our ears and hearts”
THE JUDGMENT OF THE NATIONS…2 Matt. 25:31–46
There is no surer evidence that the risen, living Lord dwells in man’s heart than an eager desire to be a faithful steward of money. Giving/charity is an integral part of worship. Giving/charity is to be regular and systematic, not haphazard and spasmodic. All are to give regularly to God. It has character-building value; it gives to the Lord’s work dignity that it deserves; it guarantees more honest and accurate stewardship of that which belongs to the Lord. The giver, the church, the kingdom all prosper. Paul urges bounteous, generous and liberal giving.2 Cor.9:6-7.
- Matt. 25:41-45. “Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels”
- “The ground of judgment- the conduct of men to each other, as revealing their relation to God; benefiting Christ’s brethren is accepted by Christ as personal service to him; neglecting them is regarded by him as personal neglect. The results of this judgment-eternal punishment-eternal life” Broadus John A.
- ‘Depart from me’ compare this with the glorious invitation. ‘Come unto me’ Matt. 11:28. “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” And let him who thirsts come. Whosoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.” Rev. 22:17
- There are three classes of people invited to come to the water of life freely.
- Those who hear, Rom. 10:17-18, Pro. 8:34; 15:31, Jas. 1:19, Eccl. 5:1 since hearing is important to faith and salvation, it is very paramount to have a listening hear. Ps. 40:6, Is. 50:5; 55:3-4. May the Lord open the ears of all who listen to this good news.
- Those who are thirsty. Ps. 42:2; 63:1; 143:6, Matt. 5:6. Jesus Himself calls for the thirsty to come- Jn. 7:37-38, Is. 55:1-2. He satisfies all abundantly and will still satisfy today as he satisfied the woman by the well in Jn. 4:10-21, Ps. 36:8. Christ is still inviting anyone to come and drink of the water of life.
- Whosoever will. “If man were not a free moral agent, God would be entirely responsible for all sin, the effects of sin, rebellion, sickness, and the damnation of men, demons and angels.” F. J. Dake. He further says, “Man has no choice about coming into the world but after he is here and old enough to be responsible, he is held accountable for his salvation or damnation. Mk. 16:15-16.