Introduction

• The message begins with the story of a 54-year-old acquaintance who passed away, highlighting the urgency of eternity and salvation.
• Both in-person attenders and online viewers are welcomed, with a sober warning to anyone who does not yet know Christ.
• The sermon continues the Matthew series titled “Entry and End Times,” focusing on Jesus’ prophetic closing words.
• The title “Stay Awake” comes directly from the text, paired with a passionate prayer for spiritual alertness.
• Reminder that nothing on social media or in daily activity outweighs the importance of aligning with Christ.

Key Points / Exposition

1. No One Knows the Day or Hour

• Matthew 24:36 teaches that only the Father knows the exact moment of Christ’s return.
• Philippians 2 explains that Jesus voluntarily laid aside certain divine privileges during His earthly ministry.
• Any attempt to predict a specific date is false prophecy.
• Believers take comfort in Christ as a High Priest who understands every struggle.

2. The End-Time Sequence

• The rapture is imminent according to 1 Thessalonians 4 and could occur at any moment.
• After the rapture: Antichrist rises, a seven-year treaty with Israel begins, the temple is desecrated mid-tribulation, and God’s judgments unfold.
• Jesus returns visibly after the tribulation.
• Revelation overview: Church present (1-3), called upward (4), absent during judgments (5-18), returns with Christ at the marriage supper (19).

3. As in the Days of Noah

• Jesus affirms the historicity of Noah and the flood in Genesis 6-9.
• Scientific and archaeological indicators such as marine fossils on mountains point to a global flood.
• Noah preached righteousness for around 100 years despite ridicule (2 Peter 2:5).
• End-time culture mirrors Noah’s day: distracted, indulgent, and spiritually careless.

4. The Command to Stay Awake

• Matthew 24:42 commands believers to remain spiritually alert.
• Readiness includes prayer, Scripture, community, repentance, and self-examination.
• Jesus’ parable of the thief warns that unpreparedness leads to loss.
• Those not ready for the rapture may face the tribulation unprepared.

5. Faithful vs. Wicked Servants

• The faithful servant manages the master’s household and resources wisely.
• Stewardship covers time, finances, relationships, and assignments.
• Faithful servants receive authority in Christ’s future kingdom.
• The wicked servant delays obedience, mistreats others, and lives indulgently.
• Judgment is severe: separation, punishment, and eternal regret.

Major Lessons & Revelations

• Life is short and eternity is certain.
• Jesus’ words are the highest authority.
• Real discipleship is active and vigilant, not passive.
• Earthly stewardship prepares believers for heavenly responsibility.
• A longing for Christ’s appearing grows from intimacy with Him.

Practical Application

1. Build a consistent prayer life and approach Christ boldly.
2. Study Scripture regularly, especially Jesus’ end-time teachings.
3. Stay connected in Christ-centered community for accountability.
4. Evaluate stewardship of schedule, finances, relationships, and responsibilities.
5. Live each day with the awareness that Christ could return at any moment.
6. Share the gospel with urgency.

Conclusion & Call to Response

• The message contrasts those spiritually awake and those unaware of eternal realities.
• Hundreds respond to the altar call, giving their lives to Christ.
• Final charge urges believers to desire Christ above all and remain faithful stewards.

Prayer

• Thanksgiving for new believers and prayer for their endurance.
• Request for a renewed longing for Christ’s return.
• Petition for grace to steward every entrusted resource well.