How Near is Near? James 5:8 affirms that Christs coming is at hand or near. But, after nearly two thousand years, how are we to understand this promise? Jesus described the coming kingdom (Matt. 4:17, 10:7, 24:33) by means of parables to teach the unfamiliar heavenly things in terms that are understandable. A close study of these parables reveals that the kingdom has two aspects: a present, spiritual reality and a glorious reality still to come. All the apostles fixed their hope in the imminent coming of Jesus (Rom. 13:11, Heb. 10:25,James 5:9), but they never identify exactly when that would be. Like us, they wanted to know when,but Jesus explained that this information was not best for them to know (Acts 1:6-7). After all, how zealous would they be in sharing the gospel with the world had they known that the work would not be finished for almost 2,000 years-and counting? What does James mean when he says establish your hearts (James 5:8, NKJV) and why do you think the awaited fruit is called precious (timios; vs. 7)? (See 1 Thess. 3:13, 2 Thess. 3:3, 1 Pet. 1:19, 1 Cor. 3:12.) The word establish (sterizo) means to fix firmly or strengthen. Our heart is to be so wedded to the Lord that it cannot be moved despite the pressures brought against it. Becoming settled in the truth (2 Pet. 1:12), withstanding temptation, and enduring trials and suffering for our faith (Acts14:22) all contribute to this work. Spiritual growth is a process that is not always easy but that bears precious fruit. Believers, redeemed by the precious [timios] blood of Christ (1 Pet. 1:19,NKJV), are of infinite value to the heavenly Farmer. The word timios is also used to describe theprecious stones that symbolize believers who are built on Christ, the foundation stone of Gods spiritual temple, the church (1 Cor. 3:11-12). Paul likens unstable believers, on the other hand, to wood, hay and straw that will not last and will ultimately be consumed by fire when Christ comes (1 Cor. 3:12-15). It is important, therefore, to ask ourselves on a regular basis whether our energies are really directed toward what we value most, toward what and who is most precious to us!Each ones work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each ones work, of what sort it is (1 Cor. 3:13, NKJV). Look at your life. What sort of work is it?
Posted on: Mon, 08 Dec 2014 05:24:44 +0000