THE URGENCY OF SPIRITUAL PREPAREDNESS

BIBLE STUDY: THE URGENCY OF SPIRITUAL PREPAREDNESS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 24:42-44
“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore, you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

Supporting Texts:
1 Thessalonians 5:2-6
2 Peter 3:10-14
Matthew 25:1-13
Luke 12:35-40
Ephesians 5:15-17

INTRODUCTION:
The urgency of spiritual preparedness cannot be overemphasised in the Christian faith. The Bible consistently urges believers to be ready, watchful, and alert, knowing that Christ's return is imminent, and the exact time unknown. Spiritual preparedness refers to living a life of holiness, vigilance, and continuous readiness for the second coming of Christ. This Bible study examines the importance of being spiritually prepared, supported by numerous scriptural references and examples from the Bible.

1. THE IMMINENCE OF CHRIST’S RETURN
The Bible makes it clear that the return of Christ will be sudden, unexpected, and will take many by surprise. This calls for constant vigilance and readiness.

a) The return of Christ will be like a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:2-3).

b) It will come suddenly upon those who are not prepared (Luke 12:40).

c) Jesus emphasised the importance of watching and being ready at all times (Matthew 24:42).

d) The parable of the faithful and wise servant illustrates the blessing of those found doing the will of God when the Master returns (Matthew 24:45-47).

e) Those unprepared will face judgment and regret (Matthew 24:48-51).

Biblical Example:
The Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) serves as a powerful illustration of spiritual preparedness. Five virgins were wise and took extra oil for their lamps, while the other five were foolish and did not. When the bridegroom arrived, only the prepared virgins could enter the wedding feast, while the others were shut out. This shows that only those who are ready will partake in the blessings of the kingdom.

2. LIVING IN HOLINESS AND RIGHTEOUSNESS
Spiritual preparedness demands a life of holiness and righteousness, as we must be found spotless and blameless at His coming.

a) We are called to live in holiness, as Christ is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16).

b) Righteous living reflects our preparedness for Christ’s return (1 John 3:2-3).

c) Those who pursue godliness are demonstrating their anticipation for Christ’s second coming (Titus 2:11-13).

d) The fear of God should drive us to live upright lives (2 Corinthians 7:1).

e) Keeping our garments clean is essential for readiness (Revelation 16:15).

Biblical Example:
The life of Noah (Genesis 6:9, Hebrews 11:7) is an example of someone who lived a righteous and blameless life in the midst of a wicked generation. His obedience in building the ark, even when it had never rained before, shows the importance of living according to God’s instructions and being spiritually ready for divine events.

3. REDEEMING THE TIME

The Bible teaches that believers must make the best use of their time, knowing that the days are evil and the return of Christ is near.

a) Believers are instructed to redeem the time (Ephesians 5:15-17).

b) We are to avoid a life of complacency and slothfulness (Proverbs 6:9-11).

c) The urgency of today’s moment should prompt us to do the will of God now, not later (John 9:4).

d) Paul urges believers to live wisely, making the most of every opportunity (Colossians 4:5).

e) Procrastination in spiritual matters can lead to missed opportunities and eternal regret (James 4:13-15).

Biblical Example:
The Israelites in Deuteronomy 1:6 were reminded by God to stop remaining at Mount Horeb and to advance. Many times, spiritual complacency sets in, and we lose track of God's timing. The Israelites’ delay in entering the Promised Land serves as a warning against spiritual procrastination.

4. THE DANGERS OF SPIRITUAL SLUMBER
Spiritual slumber or negligence is a common hindrance to preparedness. Believers are admonished to stay awake and alert.

a) Spiritual lethargy causes believers to miss God’s timing (Romans 13:11-12).

b) Jesus warned His disciples about the consequences of not watching (Mark 13:35-37).

c) The parable of the sleeping servants underscores the danger of being caught unprepared (Luke 12:37-38).

d) Spiritual alertness involves constant prayer (Colossians 4:2).

e) Watchfulness keeps us from falling into temptation (Matthew 26:41).

Biblical Example:
Samson (Judges 16:19-21) is an example of someone who fell into spiritual slumber. Though he was anointed by God, his complacency and failure to remain spiritually alert led to his downfall when Delilah deceived him. This shows the dangers of neglecting one's spiritual guard.

CONCLUSION:
The return of Christ is imminent, and no one knows the day or the hour. Spiritual preparedness is not an option but a necessity for every believer. We must live in a state of constant readiness, marked by holiness, vigilance, and a wise use of time. By examining our lives and aligning them with God’s will, we ensure that when Christ returns, we will be found prepared and worthy to enter into His kingdom.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to be spiritually prepared for Your return.

2. Father, give me the grace to live a holy and blameless life.

3. I break every spirit of procrastination in my spiritual life, in Jesus' name.

4. Lord, keep me vigilant and watchful in these end times.

5. Help me, Lord, to redeem the time and make the most of every opportunity.

6. Father, deliver me from spiritual slumber and complacency.

7. I receive strength to live righteously in the midst of a corrupt generation.

8. Holy Spirit, quicken my spirit to be constantly aware of Christ’s imminent return.

9. Lord, grant me wisdom to discern the times and act accordingly.

10. Father, may I never miss the moment of Your visitation in my life.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. You will not be caught unprepared when Christ returns!

2. Your spiritual life will remain vigilant and on fire for God.

3. Every delay and distraction in your spiritual journey is broken now!

4. You will be found faithful and ready at the Master's coming.

5. Holiness and righteousness will be the mark of your life.

6. Procrastination will not hinder your walk with God.

7. The Lord will empower you to redeem the time and make the most of your opportunities.

8. You will remain spiritually alert and avoid every form of temptation.

9. You will receive the strength to finish your race with joy.

10. By the grace of God, you will hear “Well done, good and faithful servant” at the end.