The Hope of His Appearing:

A Reflection on Titus 2:11-14

Introduction


In this week's sermon, we delved into Titus 2:11-14, exploring the profound hope that Christians hold in the appearing of our Savior, Jesus Christ. This hope is not passive but calls us to live actively, accordingly, and assuredly as we await His return. Let's break down these key points to understand how we can apply them to our lives.


Who Were Ready for Jesus' First Coming?


When Jesus first appeared 2,000 years ago, few were truly ready and receptive. The wise men from the East, Simeon, and Anna were among the few who anticipated His coming. Others, like Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds, needed divine intervention to recognize the significance of His birth. This historical context sets the stage for understanding our current anticipation of His second coming.


The Promise Fulfilled and the Gospel Proclaimed


Over the past weeks, we've examined three truths: a promise made, a promise fulfilled in Jesus' birth, and the Gospel now proclaimed to us. These truths should cultivate within us a year-round anticipation of His return. The hope of His appearing remains, and we are called to prepare for it actively, accordingly, and assuredly.

Unto Us:

This Hope Remains

Discover the call of Titus 2:11-14 for Christians to await Jesus’ return by denying godlessness, living righteously, and holding onto resurrection hope, aligning with the Gospel and resting in assured salvation.

How Should We Wait for Jesus' Return?


1. Wait Actively


Titus 2:11-12 instructs us that the grace of God, which brings salvation, also instructs us to deny godlessness and worldly lusts and to live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age. This active waiting involves:


  • Denying Godlessness and Worldly Lusts: This means saying no to temptations and living a life that reflects our faith.
  • Living Sensibly, Righteously, and Godly: This involves making daily choices that honor God, whether it's a teenager refusing alcohol at a party, a woman returning excess change, or a man prioritizing family over work.


2. Wait Accordingly


Our hope is not in death but in the appearing of Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 reminds us that our hope is in the resurrection, not just a heavenly estate. This hope should shape our lives:


  • Grieving with Hope: When we lose loved ones, we grieve differently because we have the hope of resurrection.
  • Living in Accordance with the Word: Our actions and attitudes should reflect the truth of the Gospel and the promise of Jesus' return.


3. Wait Assuredly


Titus 2:14 assures us that Jesus gave Himself to redeem us and cleanse us for His own possession, eager to do good works. This assurance is anchored in:


  • The Grace of God: Our salvation is a gift, and we can trust that God will complete the work He has begun in us.
  • The Resurrection: Just as Jesus was raised, we too will be raised, experiencing the fullness of salvation in body and soul.


Life Application


As we reflect on this message, let's challenge ourselves to live out these truths this week:


  • Actively Engage: How can you actively wait for Jesus' return in your daily life? Consider ways to deny worldly temptations and live righteously.
  • Align with the Word: Are your hopes and actions in accordance with the biblical promise of Jesus' return? Reflect on how you can align your life more closely with this truth.
  • Rest in Assurance: Do you live with the assurance of your salvation and the hope of resurrection? How can this assurance shape your interactions and decisions?


Questions to Reflect On


  1. How can I actively wait for Jesus' return in my daily life?
  2. Are my hopes and actions aligned with the biblical promise of Jesus' return?
  3. How does the assurance of my salvation and the hope of resurrection shape my life?


Conclusion


The hope of Jesus' appearing calls us to live actively, accordingly, and assuredly. As we wait for His return, let's engage deeply with one another, align our lives with the Word, and rest in the assurance of our salvation. This week, let's challenge ourselves to live out these truths, reflecting the hope we have in Christ.

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