091129

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091129   Advent Sunday

Jeremiah 33v14-16  The promise of the Lord fulfilled

1 Thess 3v12-13       Clear the way for when the Lord comes

Luke 21v25-36     The Second Coming of the Lord.

The Second Coming. Our Advent Hope.

A convergence of science and theological understanding.

Biblical and scientific evidence or prophecy.

Beginning of the world theories.  Genesis, John 1.     Big bang and  Evolution theories.

End of the world theories.   Biblical prophecy End of Age.      Disaster theories….

These do not have to be opposing.  In fact all truth comes from God and therefore I look for those theories or stories that are converging with biblical history or prophecy.

Today’s Environmental disaster theories.

Isaiah 29v6.  Joel 2v30-31. Luke 21

Biblical prophecies suggest a catastrophic decline and collapse of the Earth’s physical environment and structure. With both wars and significant geographical disturbances that will effect all the people of the world. V35.  So much so that even the Earth and the Heavens will cease to exist. V33.   A trauma in the Physical structures seems to also equate with a rift in the spiritual as well.

As sure as eggs is eggs!  Something will happen at some point!

The OT prophecied about the coming of the Messiah.  He came!

The OT and NT prophecy about his second coming at the end of the Age/Time. It will happen!

How will it happen?  We do not know!

But the issues we can give our attention to are:-

·        Do not seek to bring it on, (martyr mentality), but be wise stewards of the earth resources and of our relationships.

·        Do not fear but be at peace with the Lord and with one another as we continue to faithfully trust in God’s love and promise, and love one another.

How do we then prepare?

Disasters can bring the worst and the best out of people.

Some become intensely selfish and greedy seeking self preservation at all costs.

Some go the opposite direction and give of themselves to serve and save others.

1 Thess 3v12-13.  “May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and father when the Lord Jesus comes with all His holy ones.”

If we love the Lord we are called to live in love with others, including our enemies, (Luke 6v27) which means seeking mutual peace before self preservation. In this way we will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father, when the Lord Jesus comes.

Don’t let the fear of the future distract you from trusting in God’s promise and living in love with each other. (v9).   Love the Lord and love others.    John 17v20-26.

Fear is only for those who have lost sight of the Lord!