Week 5, Day 1 of Come, Lord Jesus, Come (A study by Love God Greatly)
Today’s Reading: Mark 13:32-37 (SOAP – Mark 13:37)
What I say to you I say to everyone: Stay alert!”
Mark 13:37
Observations
vs. 32 [But as for that day]: The time of Jesus’ return is going to come but only the Father knows when.
vs. 33 [Watch out! Stay alert!] Jesus is warning that there is not time for a leisurely faith. Paul says, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15–16). Like the faithful servants (Mark 13:34–36) or the bridal party waiting for the groom (Matthew 25:1–13), we can’t treat Jesus’ delay as permission to act ungodly (Matthew 24:48–51). (Bibleref.com on Mark 13:33)
vs. 35-36 [Stay alert … or else he might find you asleep when he returns]
“Jesus doesn’t just want His followers in the tribulation to be aware, He wants them to use that awareness to stay alive. During the tribulation, many, many Christ-followers will be hunted and killed by the Antichrist (Revelation 13:7; 17:6). But Jesus explains that they should still try to survive. In fact, they should pray for favorable conditions (Mark 13:18). He tells them to be aware of false teachers (Mark 13:5), run from impending violence (Mark 13:14), and keep a clear head (Mark 13:35). He also promises that the tribulation will not last long. If the tribulation saints can remember Jesus’ words, they will have a better chance of being “awake” when He returns.”
Bibleref.com on Mark 13:35-36
vs. 37 [to everyone] This conversation started with Peter, James, John, and Andrew privately asking Jesus a question on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple. They said, “Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?” Jesus said to them: “Watch out that no one deceives you” (Mark 13:3-5). Now, here in verse 37 Jesus is clarifying that His message to the four disciples, particularly about staying alert, was meant for everyone.
Application: So What Does This Mean For Us?
We are to be alert – awake to what is being said and what (prophecy) has been given – so that we don’t fall prey to false prophets of our day. This is not to say that we should be obsessed with the “end times” but simply alert to the messages and the events we here and see. Our efforts must not be in figuring out the day or hour but with sharing the message of the cross and the promise of eternity.
Prayer: Our Response to The Word
Father – the end times are a mystery. Clearly we are not meant to know the day or the hour of “that day” – but, we wait believing that it will come. Help us to be ready and to help others be ready by being alert to those around us who need the hope that is ours in Christ Jesus. I pray all of this in Jesus’ name and power and for Your glory! – Amen!