The Promise of Presence: Sermon Notes from Pastor Jerry Varnado's Lesson
Pastor Jerry Varnado’s sermon at Rays Church in Bishop, GA, focuses on the promise of Jesus Christ’s second coming, based on Revelation 1 and other scriptures. He emphasizes that this sermon is part of a series on “Standing on the Promises of God.” Today’s focus is on the certainty of the second coming, its manner, and its purposes.
The second coming is certain. Despite doubts that arose shortly after Jesus’ resurrection and that persist today, Peter’s writings affirm that God’s delay is due to His patience, allowing more people the opportunity to repent (2 Peter 3:3-9). The exact timing remains unknown, but believers are assured that it will happen.
The manner of Jesus’ return will be unmistakable and visible, not secretive. Unlike His first humble arrival, His second coming will be with power and glory, as described in Acts 1:9-11 and Matthew 24:27-31.
The purposes of Jesus’ return include judgment of the nations, gathering of believers, and resurrection of the dead. Revelation 19:11-16 depicts Jesus coming to judge and make war. John 14:1-3 promises that Jesus will take His followers to be with Him. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 describes the resurrection of the dead and transformation of believers into spiritual bodies.
That the second coming should bring hope, not fear, for believers. It’s a call to remain faithful and diligent in spreading the Gospel, as instructed in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). Christians should eagerly await Christ’s return, continuing their mission until He comes.
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