Insightful Musings on the Scriptures
by
Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67
Passage: Matthew 24:36-51
Focus: “So you also must be ready…” Matthew 24:44.
Let’s revisit the original question posed by the disciples to Jesus that prompted His lengthy discourse in this chapter. Perhaps I will paraphrase the question in my own words: “Can You tell us when You will return and how everything will play out in clear terms and in nice chronological order leading up to the end of the world?”
I’d like to contribute my own answer to this important question. Firstly, let me point out that I am 65 years old at present. I’ve been a Christian for almost my entire life. I’ve been to Bible School and studied New Testament Greek for one year, resulting in a BA Degree in Bible Theology. I’ve read books on the subject and been involved in countless discussions with experts. I’ve engaged in various forms of ministry for many years and have remained a serious student of the Bible. It is with this background that I submit my most accurate and authoritative answer. Here it is: I DON’T KNOW!
I really believe that this is the best answer…and the one actually intended by the Author of this revelation. I have to believe that He is quite aware of the room He has left in this disclosure for variations of interpretation and accompanying debate. However, He has embedded in this insight two essential commands about which no one has any legitimate reason for misunderstanding. The first is in verse 42: “KEEP WATCH.” The second is in verse 44: “BE READY.” There you are, folks. That’s about all you need to know. Of course it is all to be done in a Biblical sense. And if we add to this the word TODAY, you have a sure-fire standard for guaranteeing your being a participant in all the great and exciting events that God intends for you however He chooses to lace them together. So KEEP WATCH TODAY. BE READY TODAY.
“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.”