Into the Open

Matthew 24:26-28 “So if anyone tells you, ‘There he is, out in the desert,’ do not go out; or, ‘Here he is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it. 27 For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 28 Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather.”
 
IN Judea there were often groups of people who separated themselves from society to escape Rome’s oppression. Some groups even tried to revolt against Rome and form new governments. 
   These types of things have happened throughout history. We all have heard of various groups who isolate themselves from society. Their leaders claim they have the new, true way to salvation or the way to escape government authority or focus on some ant-establishment cause.
   Jesus’ point during his Olivet Discourse is to declare that the Kingdom of God will come swiftly and spread quickly into the world for all to see. There are no special enclaves or hideaways in God’s rule. The gospel spreads everywhere. It is useless to look into the desert or into a hidden room for new leaders where many false movements begin.
   Jesus teaches his disciples their lives would change quickly, and they must be ready. Acts describes the beginning of this process as the Kingdom of God’ power became evident. The Holy Spirit even used persecution (Acts 8:1) to force his Kingdom rule out of Jerusalem and into Asia, Europe and Africa. Swiftly, spiritually God spread salvation, so the entire world would see him.
   In verse 28, Jesus is admonishing believers to be faithful. If vultures have enough wisdom to flock to a dead carcass from miles away, it would be a disgrace if believers did not assemble with the One who gives Life. He implores his disciples that when trouble comes to scatter the church, they must know he is their unifying Lord. Again, Jesus assures the Father is sovereign. The Father will use the Son, the Spirit and all events of world history to his glory.
 
Jesus Teaches: God’s power moves the church to Jesus.