Mark 13:32-37 [NLT]

Big Idea: Jesus expects His followers to anticipate His return, stay alert and remain awake—despite the uncertainty of His timing.

What do we know about our future?

Jesus’ return is certain and you know when.

• Mark 13:32-33a (NLT) “However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. 33 And since you don’t know when that time will come,…

What do we do about our future?

Remain instead of anxious & apathetic.

• Mark 13:33-34,37 (NLT) 33 …, be on guard! Stay alert! 34 …“The coming of the Son of Man… 37 I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him!”

Keep & watching.

• 34 “The coming of the Son of Man can be illustrated by the story of a man going on a long trip. When he left home, he gave each of his slaves instructions about the work they were to do, and he told the gatekeeper to watch for his return. 35 You, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know when the master of the household will return—in the evening, at midnight, before dawn, or at daybreak. 36 Don’t let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning.

What Now ?

1. Since you don’t know God’s timeline, trust His promise.

2. Live as if today’s the day he returns.

Continuing The Conversation

1. When you picture Jesus’ promised literal return, does it make you feel apathetic or anxious or _______________ ?

2. Jesus commands His followers to “be on guard”, "stay alert" & “watch for him” regarding his return (v33,37). What are some distractions that can cause us to “fall asleep” into apathy or pulled into anxiety?

3. In v34, Jesus describes a master who entrusts his servants with specific responsibilities before leaving. What work has God given you a talent for while you wait for his promised return?