“Learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see these things happening, recognize that he is near—at the door. “Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. (Mark 13:28-31)
What are the things Jesus says will take place within his generation? They are everything he has said: wars and rumors of wars, the persecution of the saints, the spreading of the gospel into the nations, and the destruction of Jerusalem, which occurred in 70 AD. The only prophesy yet to be fulfilled is his return at the end of the age. But who is it that is standing at the door? This imagery is used in one other place, James 5:9, “Brothers and sisters, do not complain about one another, so that you will not be judged. Look, the judge stands at the door!” It is Jesus who stands at the door, near and ready to enter as the judge of the earth. Now that you know this, your attitude should be perpetual readiness.
Jesus’ last comment in this teaching is on the reliability of his word. He claims that his words have eternal power, that they have reliability even beyond the very fabric of the universe – that they are, in fact, the Word of God. In the beginning, God spoke and brought the universe into being by his powerful Word. Jesus has that same creative power. Therefore, you can trust in the Word Jesus speaks to you. You can order your life around it, knowing it will most certainly come to its fulfillment. By speaking his Word in advance, Jesus is giving you the privilege of entering into it, not only for the salvation of your soul but for the joy of participating in his work. So, listen to the Word! Pay attention, give yourself to it, and trust in its fulfillment.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for speaking your unfailing Word. Teach me to order my life after everything you have revealed. Let your Word reside within me and let its power unfold in my life.