The Waiting - Get Your Hopes Up

With hope, we watch and pray.

Biblical Resources:
Q: When is Jesus returning? A: No one knows.
Matthew 24:36-44; Mark 13:32-37; Luke 17:26-37; Acts 1:7

Q: How will Jesus return? A: In a highly visible, globally known event.
Acts 1:9-11; Matthew 24:27; Revelation 1:7

Q: Why is it taking so long? A: God wants all people to have a chance to know Him.
2 Peter 3:8-9; Matthew 24:14; Mark 13:10

Q: Why is Jesus returning? A: To fully establish the promised kingdom of God (Heaven), where the earth is restored to its original sinless state. Justice will be fully established and evil punished and banished.
Isaiah 11:1-10, Revelation 21 & 22

Areas of Honest Biblical Uncertainty/ Disagreement:
1) If the rapture of the faithful will happen before, during or after a time of significant tribulation.
Key Passages: Matthew 24:15-51; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17; Revelation 7:14; Daniel 9:24-27

2) If the promised 1000 year reign of Jesus is 1) happening now 2) will happen before he returns or 3) will happen after he returns.
Key Passages: Revelation 20:1-10

Applying God's Word
When you think of Jesus' promised return, what emotions does it evoke in you? Apathy? Confusion? Fear? Longing? Trust?
What holds you back from greater longing and trust?

Your Advent Prayer:
What is something you are longing for Jesus to set right in the world?
What is something you are longing for Jesus to set right in you?

Lord Jesus come quickly.