I come as a thief

Bible Reading: Revelation 16

Revelation 16:15 Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.

Thieves can't break into houses where someone is prepared and watching for them. They break into houses where no one is watching. They come and go quickly. Most of the time they have done all their damage before anyone even knows it. The evidence of their coming is only recognized later.

Jesus says here that the one who watches for him will be blessed. This warning comes right before the seventh angel pours out his vial upon the earth and the great battle of Armageddon happens. The demon spirits have already gone forth to gather the kings of the earth to battle against Jesus.

What does Jesus say to every people in every age? He says to watch for his coming. The Jews were to be watching for the coming of Messiah. He came as a baby in a manger and most of them missed him. He says to the church to watch for his rapture. He will come as a theif.

1 Thessalonians 5:2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

1 Thessalonians 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

Jesus tells the Israelites before the great battle of Armageddon to watch for his coming. They are to be ready because he could come at any time.

Even though this warning is given to Israel during the Great Tribulation, the church is given the same warning. We are to watch and be sober. Are you watching for the coming of Jesus? Do you live in light of his imminent return? He promised to come and get us (John 14:1-3). Are you ready? Have you given up?

Whatever you do, don't give up.

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us- ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

Keep watching. Jesus is coming again!

In Christ,
Rody