Template:DOD protected/October 19
October Scripture Portion: Matthew chapter 1 - Luke chapter 22 including the Gospel according to Mark.
Chapter 13 contains "signs of the end." Jesus was with His disciples, and was warning them of the things that were ahead for them. His first warning was against deceivers (verse 6). He then warned them that they would endure punishment because of Him. He gave them signs to look for prior to His second coming.
As we read this chapter, we know that many of the prophecies concerning Jesus' second coming have been fulfilled. There truly are wars and rumors of wars. There is nation rising against nation. There are deceivers on every hand; probably more today than ever before. Through the means of Gospel-preaching churches, television, radio, the printed page, and missionaries in all parts of the world, the Gospel has been made available to practically all nations. Truly the coming of the Lord is near. What should this mean to you and me? Each of us should review our own standing before the Lord. Are we really living in a way that would be pleasing to Him if He should return today? Are we burdened and concerned about others? Are we sharing His wonderful plan of salvation with those around us? Jesus tells us, in verse 33, "Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is." When He comes, He wants to find us watching and working--not sleeping!
Chapter 14 records the plot of the chief priests against Jesus. In verse 10 we read of the conspiracy of Judas, and Peter's denial is foretold in verses 26-31. One of the most moving parts of the chapter is verses 32-42, when Jesus came to Gethsemane to pray. These verses tell of His agonizing in the Garden concerning His death on the cross. Peter, James, and John were unconcerned and unaware of the importance of the hour. I wonder whether we are truly concerned about the things of our Lord; or are we, too, slumbering and sleeping when we should be serving? How much do we really love Him? How much are we willing to do for Him? He gave His all for us. There is nothing more important than serving Him in spirit and in truth.
MEMORY VERSE FOR TODAY: Man now can be: Forgiven.
Acts 13:38 Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins.
