Jesus to Return September 4, 2012!

I hope that got your attention. When ever someone does predict the day of Jesus' return it does get a lot of attention. My reaction when I hear such predictions is that the person making the prediction is obviously a crack pot. I just finished a book which changed my mind. The book is, "God's Strange Work: William Miller and the End of the World." Miller (the father of all Adventist denominations) was a farmer in the early 1800's. He became converted to Christianity. As a result of personal Bible study he become convinced that Jesus would return. He initially did not set a date and did not tell anyone - he did not want to be accused of being a crack pot.
He eventually became convinced that Jesus would return in 1843. He then felt a strong call to warn people to be ready. His doctrine other than setting a date for Jesus' return was in line with orthodox evangelical doctrine of the time.

He was motivated by a deep desire for Jesus to return. He warned people out of a unshakable burden to see as many as people as possible saved before Jesus returned. The book convicted me. I had to ask myself two questions:

1. How deeply do I desire Jesus to return. I confess I live so this worldly - as if this world really is my home.

2. How burdened am I to see as many people as possible saved before Jesus does return. How often do I preach on the return of Jesus.

My take away from the book is simple : Watch and warn but do not set dates. After all he is coming back you know - it could even be September 4, 2012.