Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and ImportanceBeing ready, in a biblical context, refers to a state of spiritual preparedness and vigilance, characterized by an active faith and a life aligned with God's will. This readiness is essential for believers as they anticipate the return of Jesus Christ and navigate the challenges of life. It involves both an inward spiritual condition and outward actions that reflect one's faith.
Biblical References1.
Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) This parable illustrates the importance of being prepared for the coming of the bridegroom, symbolizing Christ's return. Five virgins were wise and took oil for their lamps, while the other five were foolish and did not. When the bridegroom arrived, only the prepared virgins entered the wedding feast. Jesus concludes, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (
Matthew 25:13).
2.
The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) Paul exhorts believers to put on the full armor of God to stand firm against the devil's schemes. This passage emphasizes readiness through spiritual disciplines such as truth, righteousness, faith, and the Word of God. "And with your feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace" (
Ephesians 6:15) highlights the proactive stance believers must take.
3.
Watchfulness and Prayer (Mark 13:32-37) Jesus instructs His disciples to be watchful and prayerful, as no one knows the exact time of His return. "What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Keep watch!’" (
Mark 13:37). This call to vigilance underscores the need for constant spiritual alertness.
4.
Preparedness for Good Works (2 Timothy 2:21) Paul encourages believers to cleanse themselves from dishonorable things to be vessels for honorable use, "prepared for every good work" (
2 Timothy 2:21). This readiness involves a life of holiness and service, aligning with God's purposes.
5.
Readiness to Share the Gospel (1 Peter 3:15) Believers are urged to be ready to give an answer for their hope in Christ. "But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you" (
1 Peter 3:15). This readiness involves both knowledge of the faith and a lifestyle that reflects Christ's lordship.
Theological ImplicationsBeing ready is not merely a passive state but an active engagement with one's faith. It involves a continuous process of spiritual growth, characterized by prayer, study of Scripture, and obedience to God's commands. The readiness of believers is both a personal responsibility and a communal endeavor, as the Church collectively anticipates Christ's return.
Practical Applications1.
Spiritual Disciplines: Regular prayer, Bible study, and worship are essential practices that cultivate readiness. These disciplines help believers remain focused on God's will and strengthen their faith.
2.
Moral and Ethical Living: A life of integrity and righteousness reflects readiness. Believers are called to live in a manner worthy of the gospel, demonstrating Christ's love and truth in their actions.
3.
Evangelism and Discipleship: Being ready includes a commitment to sharing the gospel and discipling others. This involves being equipped to articulate one's faith and investing in the spiritual growth of others.
4.
Community and Fellowship: Engaging in Christian community provides support and accountability, fostering a collective readiness. Fellowship with other believers encourages mutual edification and perseverance in faith.
In summary, being ready is a comprehensive biblical principle that encompasses spiritual vigilance, moral integrity, and active engagement in God's mission. It is a call to live with an eternal perspective, anticipating Christ's return and faithfully serving in the present.
Topical Bible Verses
Matthew 24:44Therefore be you also ready: for in such an hour as you think not the Son of man comes.
Topicalbible.orgLuke 12:40
Be you therefore ready also: for the Son of man comes at an hour when you think not.
Topicalbible.org
Greek
2130. eumetadotos --ready to impart... 2130 ("giving over what is good") refers to , and emphasizes
being ready for .
2130 () describes someone who "open-handedly" (willingly
...2093. hetoimos -- readily
... Cognate: 2093 -- the state ofbeing ready (prepared). See 2092 (). Word Origin adverb
from hetoimos Definition readily NASB Word Usageready (3).ready....
4327. prosdechomai -- to receive to oneself
... 4327 ("wait actively, expectantly") meansbeing "ready and willing" to give .
4327 () then expresses waiting where a person is all...
5225. huparcho -- to begin, to beready or at hand, to be
... Word Origin from hupo and archo Definition to begin, to beready or at hand, to
be NASB Word Usage been (2),being (9), belonging (1), exist (1), existed (1...
Strong's Hebrew
4672. matsa -- to attain to, find... figuratively, to occur, meet or be present -- + be able, befall,
being, catch, X
... up-)on, meet (with), X occasion serve, (be) present,
ready, speed, suffice
...Library
How, among Innumerable Other Miracles of Healing Wrought by the...
... How, among innumerable other miracles of healing wrought by the wood of the cross,
which King Oswald,being ready to engage against the barbarians, erected, a...
That Perfect virtues are Never one Without the Other.
... so affected to the rectitude of reason, that though they have not all the virtues
in effect, yet they have them all in affection,being ready and prepared to...
A Relation of My Imprisonment in the Month of November 1660
... My suretiesbeing ready, I called them in, and when the bond for my appearance was
made, he told them, that they was bound to keep me from preaching; and that...
Christian Sympathy
... 2. It will be seen next, in a kindly encouragement of those who want aid, constantly
being ready to give a word of good advice, and good cheer to the heart...
A Successful Man of Affairs.
... serve. It also emphasizes the necessity ofbeing ready to do the work in
accordance with the employer's wishes. Ultimate success...
Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
... How, among innumerable other miracles of healing wrought by the wood of the cross,
which King Oswald,being ready to engage against the barbarians, erected, a...
Creation's Groans and the Saints' Sighs
... is best. Waiting impliesbeing ready. We are to stand at the door expecting
the Beloved to open it and take us away to himself....
GettingReady to Enter Canaan
...Being a faithful Christian, you can not do less than your duty, once duty is clear....
For every sanctified soul is all the Lord's,ready for anything....
Concerning Things done in Illumination.
... Light is always unfolded beneficently to the intellectual visions, and it is possible
for them to seize it when present, and alwaysbeing mostready for the...
Contradiction Between Our Life and Our Christian Conscience.
... We are all brothers, yet I take a salary forbeing ready to commit murder, for teaching
men to murder, or making firearms, gunpowder, or fortifications....
Resources
What does the Bible say about being nosey? | GotQuestions.orgIs being gay a sin? Is it a sin to be gay? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the implications of God being infinite, unlimited, and unmeasurable? | GotQuestions.orgBeing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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