When Jesus left his disciples and ascended to heaven, they were left wondering what to do while they waited for his return. It was a time of uncertainty and confusion, but there were several things that the disciples could do to prepare themselves for the coming of their Lord. In this article, we will explore what the disciples were to do while they waited for Jesus.
Study the Scriptures
The first thing that the disciples were to do was to study the scriptures. The Bible is full of prophecies about Jesus and his second coming, and it is important for believers to understand these prophecies in order to prepare themselves.
The apostle Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” By studying the scriptures, the disciples could gain a deeper understanding of God’s plan for salvation and his promise of eternal life.
Pray
Another important thing that the disciples were to do was to pray. Jesus himself often went away by himself to pray (Matthew 14:23), and he taught his disciples how to pray (Matthew 6:9-13).
Prayer is an essential part of a believer’s life, as it allows them to communicate directly with God. Through prayer, the disciples could ask God for guidance and strength as they waited for Jesus’ return.
Preach the Gospel
Jesus’ final commandment before he ascended into heaven was for his disciples to go into all the world and preach the gospel (Mark 16:15). This commandment still holds true today – believers are called to share their faith with others so that more people may come to know Christ. The disciples were not meant to keep the good news to themselves, but rather to spread it far and wide.
Wait Patiently
Finally, the disciples were to wait patiently for Jesus’ return. In Acts 1:11, the angels told the disciples that Jesus would return in the same way that he had ascended into heaven. While they waited, they were not to be idle or anxious, but rather to trust in God’s timing and plan. As James 5:7-8 says, “Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord.
See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.”
In conclusion, while waiting for Jesus’ return, his disciples were to study the scriptures, pray, preach the gospel and wait patiently. These are all important things that believers today can also do as we await Christ’s second coming. Let us continue to prepare ourselves and share our faith with others so that more people may come to know Christ and be saved.