Weekly Sermons

Semper Paratus - Matthew 24:32-51

The title of our message today is Semper Paratus. It means “Always ready.” It emphasizes the ongoing, active process of getting and staying ready for what’s coming. It’s the Coast Guard motto, and a fitting summary of what Jesus calls believers to in today’s passage.

Matthew 24:32-51

Fortunately for us, the same words that will get those living in the Tribulation ready for Jesus’ return also apply to those of us now getting ready for our own death and for those who will experience the rapture!

The need to get spiritually ready for Jesus’ return - V. 32-35

When the trees began to blossom, summer is near, and when these signs began to unfold, the Second Coming of Jesus is imminent. If you are living in that generation, you better be prepared to meet your God!

“You did not return to me,” declares the LORD. “Therefore thus I will do to you, O Israel; because I will do this to you, prepare to meet your God, O Israel!” For behold, He who forms the mountains and creates the wind, and declares to man what is his thought, who makes the morning darkness, and treads on the heights of the earth – the LORD, the God of Hosts, is His name!" - Amos 4:11b-13

And just as it is appointed unto men once die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for Him. - Hebrews 9:27-28

There is a huge difference between what the godless teach about the end of the world and what the Bible says – we teach there will be a dramatic end to this sinful earth as we know it, but after that earth will experience its best days and then there will be a New Earth (2 Peter 3:8-13).

The need to stay ready for Jesus’ return - V. 36-44

During the days before the flood, people were living as practical atheists, ignoring the many warnings Noah gave as he preached and built the Ark.

In this case the one taken will be taken to judgment, whereas the one left will get to go bodily into Christ’s 1,000 year reign. I think that will make more sense to you when we look at how chapter 25 ends.

The need to get others ready for Jesus’ return - V. 45-51

What is the difference between a faithful and fruitful servant and a false and wicked servant?

The faithful servant is busy feeding his household as he awaits his Master’s return!