While we Wait

 Read Mark 13.

Peter, James, and John privately asked two questions of Jesus concerning the end times.  When will it be and what will be the indicators?  Jesus answered them in reverse order.

There is coming an unprecedented time of world-wide tribulation (v.19).  The good news is that after that time Jesus will visibly and powerfully return to earth (vv.24-27).  This is further described in the second half of Revelation 19.  Jesus went on to say concerning the timing "no one knows."  Luke quoted Jesus in Acts 1:7, "It is not for you to know the times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority."  So, when someone proclaims that they know, they are claiming knowledge and authority in opposition to the Scriptures and usurping the authority of God, the Father.  Indeed, they will be revealed as false prophets.

In the meantime, while we wait...
1. What are followers of Jesus to do?
Jesus said in verse 10, "And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations."  After 2000 years that mission remains unfulfilled.  The tireless missions' efforts of translating the Bible in all earth's languages and communicating the good news continue.  But still many people groups have not heard and do not have access to the truth.  We have work to do.

2. What are we to know?
Despite the changing times, diversities of cultures, and world developments, one thing remains constant.  Jesus said in verse 31, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away."  The Word of God is always under attack and dismissed by many as irrelevant in an attempt to justify their sin.  But this is the unchanging standard by which every human being who ever lived will one day be judged.  Twice Jesus warned, "See that no one leads you astray" (vv.5 and 22).  Followers of Jesus may stand firm and with confidence of the truth.

3. What are we to be?
v.9-Be on your guard
v.23-Be on your guard
v.33-Be on your guard, keep awake
v.35-Stay awake
v.37-Stay awake
How many times does He need to remind us?  Obviously, a lot.

"Be sober-minded; be watchful.  Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour."  (1 Peter 5:8)