Back in the Future...Johnny Be Good (part 2)

Today’s blog is a continuation of yesterday’s blog as we begin to show how the truth of the return of Christ should affect the way we live today. Be sure to read them in order.

It should affect the level of our patience during difficult trials (James 5:8):

“You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.”

It should cause us to live a more separated life (1 John 3:2, 3):

“Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we shall be. We know that, when He appears, we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him just as He is. And everyone who has this hope fixed on him purifies himself, just as He is pure.”

It should cause us to refrain from judging others (1 Corinthians 4:5):

“Therefore, do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men’s hearts; and then each man’s praise will come to him from God.”

It should compel us to preach the Word (2 Timothy 4:1, 2; 1 Peter 5:2, 4):

“I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the Word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction; Shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness…and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory.”

It should cause us to be more concerned about heaven (Colossians 3:1-4):

“If then you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.”

It should cause us to make communion a priority (1 Corinthians 11:26):

“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.”