Sermon Notes: “Today’s Message” 

Text: Matthew 24:45

I. The Expectations

• Reference: Matthew 24:1-8
• Reflection: How can we balance the joy of earthly accomplishments with the eternal perspective of a soon return of Jesus?
• Further Study: Explore the historical and theological significance of the Jewish Temple and how the attention from God’s glory became the religious glory. Desire of Ages Chapter 69.

II. Our Awareness and Prepare

• Reference: Matthew 24:45; 25:1-30
• Reflection: Reflect on the characteristic of the servant. Faithful and Wise. Consider what being prepared for Jesus’ return means in your daily life and how you can actively use your abilities and resources to serve others and fulfill God’s purpose.
• Further Study: How the biblical concept of stewardship and preparedness in the context of the parables of the Ten Virgins and the Talents relate to the broader biblical teachings on vigilance, resourcefulness, and accountability before God? Do the historical and cultural background of these parables help us better understand their significance in Jesus’ time and their application in today’s world?

III. Using our Talents

• Reference: Matthew 25:35
• Reflection: Consider the implications of this verse for your personal life. How can you more actively recognize and respond to the physical and spiritual needs of those around you, seeing Christ in everyone you meet and serve?
• Further Study: Study the broader biblical theme of hospitality and care for the needy, focusing on how these actions reflect God’s character and the kingdom values Jesus preached. Look into Old Testament laws regarding care for the stranger and the poor (e.g., Leviticus 19:34, Deuteronomy 15:7-11) and New Testament teachings on compassion and service (e.g., James 2:15-16, 1 John 3:17-18). This will help you understand the historical and theological roots of Christian charity and how it manifests in practical, everyday actions.

Questions for Reflection and Further Study

• Our Message: Can we see the relevance of our Seventh-day Adventist Message for today?
• Our Conduct: In what ways can our daily lives more accurately reflect the message we proclaim? Consider your personal, family, and church life.
• Personal Commitment: What specific action can you take this week to demonstrate genuine interest in helping others in need? 

Prayer Points

• Pray for the wisdom to discern between temporal achievements and eternal values, asking God to cultivate in us a humble spirit that values His kingdom above worldly success and material possessions.
• Ask for the grace to be spiritually vigilant and faithful, praying that we may be like the wise virgins and faithful servants, using our talents and resources for God’s glory and being prepared for Jesus’ return.
• Pray for a heart of compassion and action, that we may see and respond to the needs of others as Jesus taught, serving the least among us and reflecting Christ’s love in our communities.