You All Must...
Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. (John 3:7)
In Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus He told him that there was something that was necessary - the new birth, the birth from above, a birth of the spirit. This was not an optional addition to the religious life. This was not something that might prove beneficial. It was an imperative, absolutely necessary. There would be no point in talking about the realities of life in the sight of God without this one essential thing – this second birth by the Spirit.
God considers this to be necessary as far as He is concerned. Jesus said that everyone must have this new birth. There is not any other option. There is no other way. The Lord Himself interrupted the conversation with Nicodemus at the start to stress this truth. Without the new birth there is no sense in continuing in the things of God.
For this reason you must be ready as well; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. (Matt 24:44 NASB)
Several English translations render verses such as Matthew 24:44 as “you must”. Jesus is speaking to His disciples (and therefore us) about His appearing. He says to all of us “you all must be ready”. The popular understanding of the Appearing of the Lord is that it is an event that just happens to you, ready or not. We see ourselves as victims of the Rapture.
I'm not destined for wrath. It will all work out.
It'll happen when it happens. No one knows the day or hour so we just don't think about it.
By contrast, Jesus said it is precisely because you don't know the exact time that you must be ready.
Many evangelicals strongly defend the idea that one must be born again. Very good. In a very similar sense we must be ready. In the mind of the Lord it is essential that we be ready. There is no other option. It is binding upon you. It is an imperative command. There is no other way. But most Christians do not give it a thought.
How do I be ready?
Be Born Of The Spirit (John 3:7)
Expect The Unexpected (Matt 24:44)
When everyone is focused on something else, Jesus will appear.
Pray For Strength (Luke 21:36)
What for? Just do it. It's a command of Jesus. We will need it.
Watch/Stay Awake (Mark 13:37)
Jesus says this to all.
Remember Lot's Wife (Luke 17:32)
Thinking more about it, she was not sure if this leaving everything was a good idea. Many may not be left behind but they may decide to stay behind.
Ready To Lose Your Life (Luke 17:33)
Why? What's so critical? If we are not prepared for That Day, we will not be ready for That Day.
Straighten Up and Look Up (Luke 21:28)
Stop laying on the ground in fear like everyone else. Stop laying in a cave or under rocks. Stand up. Straighten up. Look up.
June 25, 2026