Can we Sit Back and Wait for Christ?

There is a misconception in some people's minds today that just because we are in the end times and that Christ is soon to return, then we can just sit back and do nothing. Some people believe that they don't need to work and end up relying on others for financial support. Is this a Biblical way of thinking and acting? Would Jesus accept this kind of behaviour? I would say a resounding NO. And the following shows why. Take a look at some Bible verses concerning laziness and not helping to provide.

2 Thessalonians 3:10 ...'For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.'

1 Timothy 5:8 ...'But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.'

The Word of God is clear regarding those who will not work and help provide for family. They are not showing love to others, which is the second 'great' commandment and are denying true faith in Christ. This is because anyone who follows Christ, will do the 'works of Christ' (John 14:12).

Now I hear someone may say ..."Oh, but we are in the last days, so there is no need"

Yes, there will come a time one day soon when we won't be able to work or 'buy and sell', because only those who accept the mark of the beast will be able to work and buy and sell. But that time is not now, and until that time actually comes and the mark is enforced, then we should make every effort to show love towards our family and neighbours, by working and helping to provide.

John 9:4 ...' I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.'

It is still the 'day', as we are still able to work. Therefore, we SHOULD work. The 'night' will come one day soon, but it is not here yet, therefore we must do all we can to bring glory to God and to Jesus Christ.

Mark 8:34 ...'And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.'

If we sit back, doing nothing, just waiting for the second coming, are we really fulfilling what Jesus told us to do? Are we 'denying self'? Are we 'taking up our cross'? Are we 'following the Lord'? No. Those who have faith in Christ will do all they can to help others, rather than being lazy and a burden and making others provide for them. This is not true faith. Look at the parable of the talents. What did the 'master' do with the lazy one who buried his talent? He took the talent off him and cast him away! Friends, please don't be like this lazy worker, who thought he could get away with doing nothing.

Because it is the end times, then the true followers of Christ should be MORE active. We should do all we can to shine for Christ in helping others and not be a burden. We should do all we can to share the gospel with others. We need people to look at us and see Christ in us. The last thing we want is for people to just think we are lazy. That will not bring any glory to God.

Friends, we must not have this attitude that just because we are in the end times, then we don't need to bother doing anything. This is not what Christ wants of us. NOW is the time to 'work'. NOW is the time to shine for Christ. NOW is the time to share the good news with others and be a living witness for Christ. So let us rise up and follow Jesus by faith. Follow His example!