An Eager Expectancy for the Return of Christ (a study in Titus 2:11-15 • Part 4)

Jesus Christ is returning soon.

While we patiently await His return, how are we supposed to live now?

In this fourth study from Titus 2:11–15 we talk about how to “look for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ” and give nine biblical ways we can practically “hope” and have an eager expectancy for the Lord’s Return.

Listen to or download the episode

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Titus 2:11–15 – For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us that, denying ungodliness and worldly desires, we should live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all lawlessness, and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good works. These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you.

A Forward Focus

• God’s grace transforms our current behavior based on God’s work in the past (salvation) and our expectant hope in His future return
• Our “forward focus” is not one of foreboding, fear, or anxiety … it is one of great hope and expectancy (excitement)

Looking forward (awaiting) – to look forward the occurrence of or arrival of; receive, welcome, to accept; receive in a friendly manner (a bouncing on toes, a smile on face, a big bear hug)

• Joseph of Arimathea waiting for the Kingdom of God (Mark 15:43; Luke 23:51)
• Simeon, waiting for the comfort of Israel (Luke 2:25)
• Ana (in the Temple) (Luke 2:38)
• Servants awaiting master when he returns home (Luke 12:36)
• 40 men waiting to kill Paul (Acts 23:21)
• Pharisees and Scribes complained that Jesus “received” sinners and ate with them (Luke 15:2)

Robert W. Yarbrough – … it is clear that “wait” can describe a posture, not of passivity in the face of a fickle future … but of dogged confidence in God and his sure promises, however remote they may seem at times. … Paul describes, a waiting that is proactive, alert, and expectant. // Robert W. Yarbrough, The Letters to Timothy and Titus, ed. D. A. Carson, Pillar New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids, MI; London: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company; Apollos, 2018), 529.

2 Peter 3:12 – … looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God …

Nine ways we can practically “hope” and have an eager expectancy for the Lord’s Return

1. Earnestly watch and be ready

Matthew 24:36, 42 – “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. … Therefore stay awake, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming.”

2. Live well and keep the faith

2 Timothy 4:7 – I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.

3. Cultivate a love for His coming

2 Timothy 4:8 – In the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.

4. Fix our hope on His coming and prepare ourselves

1 Peter 1:13–15 – Therefore, having girded your minds for action, being sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, not being conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your conduct …

5. Walk in Obedience and Live Holy, Righteous, and Godly

Romans 13:12–13 – The night is almost gone, and the day is at hand. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy.

Titus 2:12–13 – … we should live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ …

1 Timothy 6:14 – … that you keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ …

6. Be Patient

James 5:7–8 – Therefore be patient, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. Behold, the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the soil, being patient about it, until it receives the early and late rains. You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

7. Remain in God’s love

Jude 21 – keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life.

8. Be anxious for nothing

Philippians 4:5–6 – Let your considerate spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

9. Pray for His return (“Maranatha”)

Revelation 22:17a – And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” …

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Go deeper: see Romans 8:23–24; Galatians 5:5; Ephesians 1:18; Colossians 1:27; 1 Thessalonians 2:19

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Question: What are you most excited about for the return of Christ?

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About NRJohnson

NRJohnson (Nathan Johnson) is a Christian who has an overwhelming passion for Jesus, the Gospel, and Studying God’s Word. He is a writer, teacher, and communicator who helps other believers understand and apply the Bible as they grow and mature in their faith—desiring that they gain greater intimacy with Christ, experience the victorious Christian life, and transform the world through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Read more about him here.

About the Deeper Christian Podcast

Many Christians feel frustrated because they don’t grow spiritually. The Deeper Christian Podcast helps equip Christians to understand the Word of God and cultivate a passionate love for Jesus that turns the world upside down.

Whether you want to learn how to study God’s Word, grow in your faith, cultivate a powerful and effective prayer life, share the Gospel boldly, deepen your intimacy with Jesus, live victoriously, or transform the world through the indwelling life of the Holy Spirit, the Deeper Christian Podcast with NRJohnson (Nathan Johnson) will encourage and equip you to grow spiritually and live a Christ-centered life.