A Timely Warning in Light of the Second Coming

A Timely Warning in Light of the Second Coming
Matthew 24:44 [Reading vv.36–51]
The Gospel of Matthew contains some of the greatest sermons preached by the greatest preacher of all time. Egs. —
*Sermon of Christian Living - Chs.5–7 .
*Sermon of Christian Service - Ch.10
*Sermon on Responsibility – 11:21–24
*Sermon about the Kingdom – Ch.13
*Sermon on Church Discipline & Authority – Ch.18
*Sermon on Forgiveness – Ch.18
*Sermons on Christian Service – Chs.20 & 22
*Sermon of Solemn Denunciations – Ch.23
*Sermon on the Second Coming – Chs.24 & 25
To understand the drift of the whole passage before us, we must carefully keep in mind the
question which gave rise to our Lord’s sermon – v.3
It is this question that provokes our Lord to preach this marvellous sermon on prophecy
The first part of the sermon (v.4–14) is taken up with general lessons
The next section (v.15–28) deals with terrible times
(1) Fleeing from danger is sometimes the right thing for a Christian to do (v.16)
(2) The Lord makes special mention of the Sabbath (v.20)
(3) God’s elect are always special objects of God’s care (v.22,24)
The next section (v.29–35) describes His Coming as the Judge of the world
The rest of the sermon (v.36–51) highlights the reality of solemn separation
In the light of all this the Saviour issues two extremely important exhortations – 24:42,44

1. A SERIOUS EXPECTATION – the Son of man cometh

2. A SEARCHING CONSIDERATION –
   ‘for in such an hour as ye think not’

3. A SOLEMN EXHORTATION – ‘Be ye also ready’
   ‘READINESS’ is the key to acceptance
   The Christian ought to WATCH!
   Those without Christ must BE READY!