Emergency Preparedness (Part 2)

So what do we do while we wait?  Along with the signs of the end times in Matthew 24, Christ gives us instructions on how to live.  Nine of those instructions are (as listed in Introduction to Pentecostal Doctrine)

1.  Watch out that no one deceives you (v. 4).  The only sure way to keep from being deceived is to focus on Christ and His words.

2. Do not be alarmed at the signs; they must happen (v. 6)

3.  Stand firm to the end (v. 13).  "All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved" (Matthew 10:22).  We will not be saved by standing firm, but our persistence to stand firm will show our commitment to Jesus. We may not be suffering for our beliefs but there are people in the world who are.  Christ says that we are one body so if one Christian suffers then we all suffer.  First Corinthians 12:26 says "If one part suffers, every part suffers with it, if one part is honored, every part rejoices wit it."  So do we pray for those who are suffering?  Do we try to help lighten their load?  Some day that could be you or I.

4.  Continue preaching the gospel throughout the world (v. 14).  Christ says that the gospel will be preached in the whole world before His return.  His last command before leaving this earth was the Great Commission.

5.  Be ready to flee from evil and persecution (vv. 16-19).  "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me" (Matthew 5:11).

6.  Know from the signs that Christ's coming and the end are very near (v. 33)

7.  Watch continually for Christ's coming (v. 42).  Christ second coming will be swift and sudden.  There will be no opportunity for last-minute repentance or bargaining.  The choice we have already made will determine our eternal destiny (Life Application Bible p1586).

8.  Be ready spiritually for Christ's return (v. 44).  Christ does not give us these signs to predict His second coming, but He gave them as a warning to be prepared.

9.  Be a faithful and wise servant as you await Christ's coming (vv. 45-46).  Jesus calls us continue His work taking care of those in need.  Showing them who Jesus is by meeting their mental, physical and spiritual needs.  Leading them to Christ so they to may see eternity with Jesus Christ.


So while you watch for the signs of the end times make sure your focus is on following Christ's instruction.  Focusing on these will help you focus on Christ and focusing on Christ will help you prepare for his second coming.