The Importance of Watching ~ Luke 21:34-36 - The Great High Priestly Prayer ~ John 17

Understanding Jesus' Command to Watch in Luke 21:34-36

Explore the Biblical context and meaning of Christ's urgent call to spiritual vigilance before His return. Let's take a look at what we should be watching for:

The Coming of the Son of Man

25 "And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; 

26 men's hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 

27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 

28 Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near." (Luke 21:25-28)

Christ will return to earth. 

The Thirty-fourth prediction, Concerning the Second Coming: His elect will be gathered by angels everywhere. The unsuspecting wicked will suddenly be removed and destroyed just as they were in Noah's and Lot's day. (Matt. 24:29-41)

The Importance of Watching ~ Luke 21:34-36

34 "But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. 

35 For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. 

36 Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man." (Luke 21:34-38)

The Sudden Coming of That Day Why Jesus warns believers to remain alert for His unexpected return and final judgment.

Three Dangers That Threaten Spiritual Watchfulness 

Surfeiting - The Danger of Overindulgence How excessive consumption and worldly pleasures can dull our spiritual awareness and readiness.

Drunkenness - Losing Spiritual Sobriety The spiritual implications of being intoxicated by worldly concerns and losing clarity of purpose.

Cares of This Life - When Daily Worries Overwhelm Faith Understanding how legitimate concerns can become spiritual distractions that prevent watchfulness.

How to Practice Spiritual Vigilance Daily

Practical steps for maintaining watchfulness through Prayer, Scripture and faithful living. 

The day of Christ Jesus's return should not take us by surprise. We should live as if it is imminent. Don't be consumed by excessive consumption, worldly concerns and worldly pleasures, which can cause  loss of clarity of purpose, and can dull our spiritual awareness and readiness. These concerns can become spiritual distractions that prevent watchfulness. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. Read your Bible daily. Pray without ceasing. Be watchful. Stay connected to the Vine, which is Jesus. He is the source of life and spiritual fruitfulness. (John 15:1)

The Great High Priestly Prayer - John 17 Connection

Discover how Jesus's intercessory prayer relates to His command for believers to watch and remain faithful.

What the Son Had Done

He had completed His mission.

By glorifying the Father (17:4)

By providing salvation, security and service for the elect. (17:2, 12, 18)

By revealing the person of God to people. (17:6,26)

By revealing the Word of God to people. (17:8, 14)

He was ready to die. (17:19)

A Recommendation for the Future, from Jesus

Jesus prays for Himself, His Disciples, and for All Believers 

"Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: "Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.  (John 17:1-3)  

What the Father Should Do

Glorify the Shepherd (17:1,5) Edify the Sheep:

By someday receiving them (John 17:24)

"Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world."

To be one that God and Jesus receives someday in the Kingdom of God, is our prayer Lord.