Sermon Series: The Gospel of Luke
Diligence
Pastor George Stephens | November 23, 2025
“For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”” (Luke 21:4, ESV)
Diligence Requires Discernment
“And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified, for these things must first take place, but the end will not be at once.”” (Luke 21:9, ESV)
Diligence Requires Determination
To Keep Jesus our Priority -- “But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake. This will be your opportunity to bear witness. Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer, for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.” (Luke 21:12–15, ESV)
To Look Past the Adversity -- “Alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! For there will be great distress upon the earth and wrath against this people. They will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive among all nations, and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” (Luke 21:23–24, ESV)
To Expect Christ’s Return -- “And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”” (Luke 21:27–28, ESV)
Diligence Requires Discipline
““But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”” (Luke 21:34–36, ESV)
Questions:
1. How comfortable are you in your living? Does that bother you?
2. What are you actively doing in preparation for the return of Christ?
3. Where are you complacent and what can you do to overcome that complacency?
