Below are notes to a sermon preached Sunday morning, Feb. 16, 2003, at Gospel Light Baptist Church, Albany, Georgia.
BIBLE-BELIEVING FUNDAMENTALISTS BELIEVE IN THE SOON RETURN OF CHRIST
By Michael D. O’Neal Pastor, Gospel Light Baptist Church Albany, Georgia
Scripture Reading: John 14:1-9
Text: John 14:3
John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
Introduction: A Bible-believing fundamentalist believes the Bible he holds in his hand is God’s inspired, inerrant, infallible word. He holds certain grand truths of that Bible to be FUNDAMENTAL and makes those truths qualifications for fellowship. One of those fundamentals is expressed in our scripture reading this morning. It is the wonderful truth of
THE SOON RETURN OF CHRIST
This doctrine is non-negotiable. It is not a secondary doctrine; it is PRIMARY. It is not INCIDENTAL; it is FUNDAMENTAL. A correct understanding of the second coming affects the way a believer feels about service to God, about soul-winning, about separation, about stewardship, and about society.
I. THE SOON RETURN OF CHRIST IS PROMISED 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
A. It was promised by the Savior – John 14:1-3
B. It was promised by the scriptures
- 1 Thessalonians 4:15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.
C. It is promised by the saints
- 1 Thessalonians 4:18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
- We have preached it, taught it, sung about it, testified to it, talked about, but one day we are going to SEE about it! Amen!
II. THE SOON RETURN OF CHRIST IS PURIFYING
1 John 3:2-3 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
A. Because of anticipation – His return is imminent
B. Because of accountability – The Judgment Seat of Christ Romans 14:10; 2 Corinthians 5:10
III. THE SOON RETURN OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS
Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
A. Because of the change
- In time
- In territory
- In temptations, troubles, and trials