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WHAT
TIME IS IT? Introduction: It has been over 2000 years since God spoke through the Holy Spirit these words “that now it is high time to awake out of sleep for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.” and yet if this was true then (and it was) how much more true is it today? We do not have the luxury of time on our hands. Since the night is far spent and the day is at hand I believe the Bible teaches here that there are some very important eternal actions that we must be about the business of doing today. Jesus is coming so it is time:
A. The Debt Of Love (v.8) · While other debts may be discharged, the debt of love is owed always. · Any payment made on this debt does not release us from continued indebtedness, (Illus: Jesus’ remarkable answer to Peter…7 times…no, 70 times 7). When Peter has forgiven his brother 7 times he has not begun to discharge the debt of love. He must forgive, and forgive, and forgive, realizing that such is the love of God. · Love’s debt is large. B. The Decree Of Love (v.9) · Love is not a suggestion it is a command of God. · Summed up (“comprehended”) in “thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” If a man loves his neighbor like this he won’t transgress in any of these areas. C. The Duty Of Love (v.10) · The last 5 commandments are underlined because they deal with love’s duty to mankind. Love is a duty and it requires inconvenience. · People are looking for convenience today in everything including church. (Illus: fast-food has flavor but has no nutritional valve). Why is it so difficult to get committed leaders, workers, choir members etc. in the church today? We have taken the duty out of Christianity! II. TO WAKE UP (VV.11-12) A. The Uncommitted (v.11) · “Time” = season / “Sleep” = apathy and lethargy / “Salvation” = glorification (future tense) (Illus: some things are indicators of seasons) · The Bible says to uncommitted Christians – WAKE UP! Get the lead out – do something for Jesus! B. The Unconverted (v.12) · “The night is far spent” = darkness began at the crucifixion (Jn.9:4-5) · “The day is at hand” = the rapture. The night is about over Jesus is coming and God’s not putting up with this stuff much longer. · Get saved! He’s not coming back as Savior He’s coming back as Judge! III. TO CLEAN UP (VV.13-14) A. Take Off The Grave Clothes · Christians are to live life with the rapture in view (as in the day) · Take off the dirty clothes of attitudes and actions B. Put On The Grace Clothes Not just Jesus but the Lord Jesus Christ. · Lord = He has all power – when I put on the Lord Jesus I put on His power! · Jesus = human title (speaks of compassion). When I put on the Lord Jesus I not only put on His power but His compassion to go out and do wonderful merciful things for my fellow man in His name. · Christ = Messiah; the anointed one; the deliverer. So I am to put on His power, His Compassion, and I am to put on His willingness to go a set the captives free! · Jesus is to be the absolute authority in the life of the Christian. He is Lord He is in charge. But I can’t put on the Lord Jesus Christ until I get the other junk off! Conclusion:
Preacher, “Jesus is not Lord in my life.” Then you’ve got to
take some things off. Jesus is coming soon - Pay Up; Wake Up; and Clean Up
because the night is about over and the day is going to dawn. I can’t
make you do that. Only a sovereign God can make you change your ways.
These actions are not to be put off for another day, but are to be carried
out today for unbelievers and every day as the believer lives his or her
life in the world.
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