Jesus say’s “Be on guard”
Matthew 24:9-14; Mark 13:9-13
Last week Jesus gave the first instructions. “Watch Out! Watch out for
false Messiahs who deceive. Watch out for news of wars and conflicts do
not be alarmed. Watch out for faltering nature because it’s just the
beginning. This week we want to examine the next set of instruction. “Be
on Guard” as the end approaches. Guard yourself when persecutions
come. Guard yourself against prepared speeches. Guard yourself by
continuing to share your faith in Jesus.
Be on guard when persecution comes.Matthew 24:9-13; Mark 13:9
Persecution is real, expected and painful. Matthew 24:9 Jesus advised in
this world there will be trouble. Persecuted Christians because we have
yielded ourselves to Jesus. Persecution is the result of increased
wickedness. Persecution brings about a spiritual coldness. Persecution
limits our enthusiasm for God Persecution can provide an opportunity.
Be on Guard against preparing speeches Mark 13:11
Prepared speeches tend to offer a defense of ourselves. Premeditated
speeches lend themselves to providing excuses for our actions. Person of
Holy Spirit provides a witness of who Jesus is bringing glory to God even.
Be on Guard Witness. Mark 13: 9, Matthew 24:11
Stand firm: hatred expressed is directed toward Jesus and is not
personal. Stand firm hold out because the persecutor needs grace, peace
and mercy Jesus provides Strand firm hold on because God will deliver
you.
The end times is a mystery to believers, but Jesus did not leave us
unaware of how to live during challenging days. Jesus words about the
end times provides Christian’s instructions as we navigate days that
appear to be impossible. We are to watch out for false Messiahs who
mislead, fearful conflicts and faltering nature. We are to be on guard and
understand persecutions are real and can be expected. It does us little
good to defend ourselves actions, beliefs and motives with well thought