CaryCOG | Cary Church of God
Pastor Patrick Jensen brings us today's message: "The Wedding as a Sign for Watching"
Matthew 25:1-5 NKJV
I. Intro:
a. Matthew writes a lengthy monologue, given by Jesus, in response to three seminal questions asked by his disciples on the mount of Olives. The questions were:
1) When shall these things (the destruction of the temple) be?
2) What will be the sign of Your coming?
3) And what will be the sign of the end of the world?
II. The wedding sign of the burning lamp represents a state of preparedness
(Matthew 25:1-5)
Lyrics:
Rejoice, rejoice, believers, and let your lights appear;
the evening is advancing, and darker night is near.
The Bridegroom is arising and soon is drawing nigh.
Up, pray and watch and wrestle; at midnight comes the cry
Laurentius Laurenti
III. The wedding sign of midnight is the sign of a state of unknowing
(Matthew 25:6-9)
Quote:
"Wake, awake, for night is flying," the watchmen on the heights are crying; "Awake, Jerusalem, arise!" Midnight hears the welcome voices and at the thrilling cry rejoices: "Where are the virgins pure and wise? The Bridegroom comes: Awake! Your lamps with gladness take! Alleluia! With bridal care and faith's bold prayer, to meet the Bridegroom, come, prepare!"
Philip Nicolai
IV. The wedding sign of the closed door is a sign of perishing souls
(Matthew 25:10-13)
Lyrics:
The watchers on the mountain proclaim the Bridegroom near;
go forth as he approaches, with alleluias clear.
The marriage feast is waiting; The gates wide open stand.
Arise, O heirs of glory; The Bridegroom is at hand.
Laurentius Laurenti