2 Corinthians 12:20-21 For I am afraid that when I come I may not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be. I fear that there may be discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder. I am afraid that when I come again my God will humble me before you, and I will be grieved over many who have sinned earlier and have not repented of the impurity, sexual sin and debauchery in which they have indulged. (NIV)
In our reference scripture, the Apostle Paul was preparing the Corinthian church for his third visit to them ( cc 2 Corinthians 12:14). As an apostle who understood the truth of the gospel and standard of holiness expected in Christ, he expressed a concern about meeting them in a sinful and unrepentant state and gave a stern warning:
2 Corinthians 13:1-2,5: This will be my third visit to you. “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” I already gave you a warning when I was with you the second time. I now repeat it while absent: On my return I will not spare those who sinned earlier or any of the others…..Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? (NIV)
The same way, Jesus Christ is coming back a second time.
If the return of Paul to the Corinthian church came with authority and with a strong warning, how much more the return of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.
The first time, He came to die for our sins and give us the grace to live a holy life and walk with God. The second time, He is coming in His power and glory for a church that is pure, walking in the light and free from sin. (Mark 13:26-27, Hebrews 9:27, Ephesians 5:27). At that time, He will judge every one who remains persistent in their sin. (Acts 13:30-31).
Consider His word today, examine yourself, repent of any way you have sinned and ask for grace to live a holy and sanctified life. He is coming again and you will have to give account for the way you lived your life.
2 Peter 3:14: So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with Him. (NIV)
PRAYER: Thank you Lord for your word. I repent of every way I have sinned against you and choose to forsake every evil way as I prepare for your coming. Please give me the grace to live a pure and holy life as I depend on Your Holy Spirit who lives in me. Help me, prepare me Lord to spend eternity with you in heaven when You come back for your saints in Jesus name. Amen.