Any study on Bible prophecy that is simply intellectual or emotional is incomplete. Prophecy always demands a practical response by the people to whom it applies. For example, anticipating Jesus’ imminent return carries along with it the need for born again believers today to engage in an active pursuit of moral purity and prayer.
Simply put, there are things that we, as the bride of Christ, need to be doing – such as regularly “bathing” in God’s word – in preparation for meeting our Lord in the air. Also, knowing that God is longsuffering towards mankind, “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance”, makes the burden to reach the lost more urgent.
Yes, there are prophetic facts that excite us because we can see almost daily the Lord’s eternal plans coming to pass before our very eyes! However, we must convert that excitement into a practice of godliness. Peter exhorts us to be prepared for service, to have a sobriety of mind, and to be obedient and holy in all our actions in expectation of Jesus’ return. James speaks of our need for patience and the establishing of our hearts in the things of the Lord since He is drawing near.
Over and over we find Biblical prophecy accompanied by practical admonitions for us. We are warned about being caught asleep when Jesus returns, followed by the strong statements about walking in the armor of light by rejecting all unrighteousness, instead being conformed daily into the image of Jesus Christ. One particular thing that we are to be exhorting each other in as we see the Day approaching is to continue in fellowship with the brethren.
May we seek a rational, practical approach to the prophetic side of Scripture, looking to Jesus for that “second wind” of His Holy Spirit that we might each finish our course with joy. Remember, “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” in order that, as others hear His message and read the epistles of our lives, they too would come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
So saints, until our Lord comes – occupy!
