"The Time is Near"

"And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed" ~ Romans 13:11

This verse from the Apostle Paul is sandwiched right between his directive to always love one another and his reminder that those who follow Jesus must behave in a way of which we are not ashamed. We have to be all the more urgent about these directives because we understand the times we are in. We understand that Jesus could return at any moment. The nearness of the Lord's return is both a blessing and a curse, depending on our level of preparedness. The same was true when Jesus was born. His birth was a blessing to Mary & Joseph, to the shepherds, and to many others who trusted and believed in the prophecies about Him. But to King Herod, one who was not ready to surrender his royal throne, Jesus' entrance into the world as "king of the Jews" sealed his fate. Are you prepared for the return of Jesus? Many times in Scripture, God's people were given a word of urgency coupled with what they must do differently knowing that Christ will be coming soon. Such a word is not harsh, but loving, giving us a chance at eternal life. This week at Friendship, we'll discuss the urgency of the phrase "The Time Is Near" in relation to Jesus' first appearing and His second coming. If you are ready to hear what He wants of you in the time you have left, then join us for this encouraging and challenging message.