In the Christian faith, the concept of “occupying till I come” carries profound symbolism and significance. This phrase, derived from the Bible, emphasizes the idea of being proactive, diligent, and faithful in our work and service while awaiting the return of Christ. As believers, we are called to be active participants in God’s kingdom, using our time, talents, and resources to further His purposes on earth.
Luke 19:13 (KJV)
“Occupy till I come.”
The Biblical Meaning of “Occupy Till I Come” underscores the importance of fulfilling our God-given duties with a sense of urgency and commitment. Just as a servant is expected to diligently carry out his master’s instructions in his absence, Christians are called to be faithful stewards of God’s gifts and opportunities until Christ returns. This involves engaging in acts of kindness, sharing the Gospel, serving others, and living a life that reflects Christ’s love and teachings.
1 Thessalonians 5:6 (NIV)
“So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.
Exploring the Biblical Concept of Occupying Till He Comes
The concept of occupying till He comes is rooted in Christian belief and symbolism, emphasizing the importance of staying faithful and diligent in fulfilling God’s purposes until the return of Jesus Christ. This biblical principle encourages believers to actively engage in serving God’s kingdom and spreading His message while awaiting the second coming of Christ.
Matthew 24:46
“So if you are vigilant and short on your toes when He arrives, you won’t need to carry the bedraggled life on your back.”
1 Corinthians 15:58
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”
As Christians, we are called to be productive and faithful stewards of the resources and opportunities that God has given us. This means using our talents, time, and resources to serve God and others, spreading His love and truth in all aspects of our lives.
Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
1 Peter 4:10-11
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.”
We are called to be salt and light in the world, bringing hope, healing, and redemption to those around us. By living out our faith and sharing the gospel with others, we are fulfilling our mission as ambassadors of Christ, preparing the way for His return.
Matthew 5:13-16
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
In conclusion, the biblical concept of occupying till He comes reminds us to be faithful, diligent, and obedient in fulfilling God’s purposes in our lives. By actively engaging in serving His kingdom and sharing His message, we are preparing ourselves and others for the return of Jesus Christ. Let us strive to be faithful stewards of God’s grace, using our gifts and talents to bring glory to His name until He comes again.
Understanding the Responsibility and Purpose of Occupying in Christian Faith
In Christian faith, understanding the responsibility and purpose of occupying is essential. As Christians, we are called to be stewards of God’s creation, using our time, talents, and resources for His glory. Let us explore the significance of this responsibility and purpose through the lens of Christianity symbolism and relevant Bible verses.
The Responsibility of Occupying
1. Luke 12:48 (NIV)
“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
As Christians, we are called to be faithful stewards of all that God has given us. This includes our time, talents, and resources. We are responsible for using these gifts wisely and for the benefit of others.
2. 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
God has entrusted each of us with unique gifts and abilities. It is our responsibility to use these gifts to serve others and glorify God. Whether it be through acts of service, generosity, or leadership, we are called to occupy and make a positive impact on the world around us.
The Purpose of Occupying
3. Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
One of the primary purposes of occupying in the Christian faith is to be a light to the world. Through our actions and attitudes, we are called to reflect the love and grace of God to those around us. By doing so, we point others towards Him and bring glory to His name.
4. Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
Our purpose in occupying is not just to fulfill our own desires or ambitions but to work wholeheartedly for the Lord. By doing everything as unto Him, we find fulfillment and joy in our calling. Our ultimate reward comes from serving Christ faithfully in all that we do.
5. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
God has a specific purpose and plan for each of us. As we occupy in obedience to His will, we walk in the good works He has prepared for us. Through these works, we bring honor and glory to Him and experience the fullness of life that comes from fulfilling our God-given purpose.
As Christians, understanding the responsibility and purpose of occupying is integral to living out our faith. By being faithful stewards of God’s gifts and shining His light in the world, we embody the love and grace of Christ to those around us. Let us embrace this calling wholeheartedly, knowing that in occupying for His glory, we find true fulfillment and joy.
Practical Application of “Occupying Till I Come” in Daily Life
As Christians, we are called to faithfully serve God and fulfill His purposes until the return of Jesus Christ. The concept of “occupying till I come” is derived from the parable of the talents in the Bible, where a master gives his servants talents and expects them to invest and increase them while he is away. This idea can be applied to our daily lives as we await the second coming of Jesus. Here are some practical ways we can live out this principle:
1. Faithful stewardship
One of the key lessons from the parable of the talents is the importance of faithful stewardship. We are called to wisely use the resources and gifts that God has given us, whether it be our time, talents, or finances. By using these blessings to further God’s kingdom and glorify Him, we are actively “occupying” and fulfilling our calling.
Matthew 25:21 (NIV)
“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’”
2. Sharing the Gospel
Another way we can occupy till Jesus comes is by sharing the message of salvation with others. As Christians, we are called to be witnesses of Christ and to make disciples of all nations. By sharing the good news of the gospel, we are actively participating in God’s kingdom work and fulfilling our purpose on earth.
Mark 16:15 (NIV)
“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”
3. Serving others
Jesus set the ultimate example of servanthood during His time on earth, and we are called to follow in His footsteps. By serving others selflessly and meeting the needs of those around us, we are demonstrating Christ’s love and fulfilling the commandment to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Galatians 5:13 (NIV)
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
4. Prayer and fellowship
Prayer is a powerful tool that connects us with God and allows us to seek His will in our lives. By devoting ourselves to prayer and seeking God’s guidance, we are actively engaging in spiritual warfare and fulfilling our role as co-workers with Christ. Additionally, fellowship with other believers strengthens and encourages us in our journey of faith.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NIV)
“pray without ceasing,”
| Point | Illustration |
| Stewardship | Using our talents to bless others |
| Sharing the Gospel | Evangelizing in our communities |
| Serving others | Volunteering at a local shelter |
| Prayer and fellowship | Joining a small group for spiritual support |
By applying the principle of “occupying till I come” in our daily lives, we can actively participate in God’s kingdom work and bring glory to His name. Let us strive to be faithful servants, using our time, talents, and resources to further the gospel and make a difference in the world around us.
Embracing the Call to Diligently Work and Wait for Christ’s Return
is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith. As believers, we are called to be faithful servants, eagerly anticipating the return of our Lord and Savior. This anticipation should motivate us to live our lives in a manner that is pleasing to God, constantly seeking to grow in our faith and spread the message of the Gospel to others.
One of the key aspects of diligently working and waiting for Christ’s return is staying faithful and obedient to God’s Word. The Bible serves as our guide in this life, providing us with wisdom, direction, and encouragement. As Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” By immersing ourselves in Scripture and allowing it to shape our thoughts and actions, we can be better equipped to fulfill the call that God has placed on our lives.
Psalm 119:105
Another important aspect of this call is remaining steadfast in prayer. Prayer is our direct line of communication with God, allowing us to seek His guidance, provision, and strength. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, we are encouraged to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” By making prayer a priority in our lives, we can align our hearts with God’s will and experience His peace in the midst of life’s challenges.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
As we diligently work and wait for Christ’s return, we are also called to live lives of service and love towards others. In Galatians 5:13, we are reminded that “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” By serving others with humility and love, we reflect the character of Christ and demonstrate His love to a world in need of hope and redemption.
Galatians 5:13
In our journey of faith, we will undoubtedly face trials, challenges, and opposition. However, we are reminded in Romans 8:18 that “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” By fixing our eyes on the hope of Christ’s return and the promise of eternity with Him, we can find strength and perseverance to endure every trial that comes our way.
Romans 8:18
Ultimately, as we embrace the call to diligently work and wait for Christ’s return, we do so with the knowledge that our labor is not in vain. In 1 Corinthians 15:58, we are encouraged to “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” May we press on in faith, knowing that our hope is secure in the promise of Christ’s return.
1 Corinthians 15:58
In conclusion, the biblical principle of “occupy till I come” serves as a profound reminder for us to actively engage in our responsibilities and faithfully steward the gifts and talents that God has entrusted to us. By staying diligent, committed, and purpose-driven in all aspects of our lives, we can honor God and glorify His name. Let us embrace the call to “occupy till He comes” with zeal and passion, knowing that our efforts are not in vain. May we continue to work diligently and faithfully in anticipation of His return, so that we may hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.