(Clip) God's Wake Up Call And the Second Coming of the Lord
Chuck Smith emphasizes the urgency of spiritual alertness as signs of the Lord's imminent second coming become increasingly evident.
This sermon emphasizes the signs of the last days as described by Paul and Peter, highlighting the moral decay and spiritual darkness that will prevail. It urges believers to be vigilant, to put off the works of darkness, and to be prepared for the imminent return of the Lord. The message stresses the importance of waking up from spiritual slumber, as the night is far spent and the day of salvation is drawing near.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The world is in spiritual darkness approaching the end times
- Paul's exhortation to put off works of darkness
- Signs of the last days as described by Paul
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II
- Description of perilous times and moral decay
- Characteristics of people in the last days
- The love of pleasure surpassing love for God
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III
- Peter's warning about scoffers and denial of Christ’s return
- The skepticism about the promise of the Lord’s coming
- Encouragement to remain watchful and hopeful
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IV
- The urgency to wake up spiritually
- Salvation is nearer than when we first believed
- The call to look up and lift our heads for redemption
Key Quotes
“The night is far spent. The world has gone through a long night of darkness and it is getting darker.” — Chuck Smith
“Let's put off the works of darkness. We're very close to the time of the coming of our Lord.” — Chuck Smith
“Now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The day is far spent, or the night is far spent, the day is at hand.” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- Examine your life and put off any works of darkness to prepare for Christ’s return.
- Stay spiritually alert by recognizing the signs of the last days and living in readiness.
- Encourage others with hope by reminding them that redemption is near and to lift their heads in expectation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of the last days according to Paul?
Paul describes perilous times marked by selfishness, pride, disobedience, and moral decay as signs of the last days.
Why does Chuck Smith say we need to wake up?
Because the day of the Lord’s coming is very close, and believers must be spiritually alert and ready.
What does Peter say about scoffers in the last days?
Peter warns that scoffers will mock the promise of Christ’s return, claiming everything continues as it has since creation.
How should believers respond to the signs of the times?
Believers should put off works of darkness, stay watchful, and live in hopeful anticipation of Christ’s return.
Has the second coming been delayed?
While the timing is unknown, Chuck Smith emphasizes that we are increasingly close and must remain vigilant.