Three appearings of Christ

It has been a good many years now, and we were in an afternoon service in General Camp. Our little grandson was with us and was listening attentively when Bro. Robert Carrol announced that he was to preach on 4 "R"s. Shocked the little fellow asked, "Did he say he was going to preach four hours?" Today I want to preach to you about 3 "A"s. Well, not really preach, but suggest an outline. The text would include Hebrews 9:24 - 28 and tells of three appearings of Christ. You will note three times: Past, Present and Future.

Verse 26 - He hath appeared - In infancy, humility and obscurity. Long promised Messiah -

·       Born of a virgin. Isa. 7:14; 9:6; 11: 1;

·       Born in Bethlehem - Micah 5:2.

·       Baptized at Jordan by John the Baptist at age 30 - Lk. 3:13 and age required of priests - entered His Priestly office;

·       Acknowledged by God the Father, Also the Holy Spirit descending as a dove.

·       Died on the Cross - God's perfect atoning sacrifice.

·       Rose from the dead.

·       Ascended.

Verse 24 - He Now Appears - In the presence of God FOR US.

·       He's our High Priest. Heb. 9:11

·       Entered the holy place "having obtained eternal redemption for us Heb. 9:12

·       He placed his blood on the altar "not made with hands"

·       Now sits at the right hand of God

·       Mediator of the "better covenant",

·       Makes intercession for us , Rom. 8:34

Verse 28 - He Shall Appear - "Unto them that look for Him" - Rom. 8:34, that is, for those who are ready to meet Him!

·       The Second Coming of Christ is the world's greatest future event.

·       "of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end" - Isa. 9:7.

·       "Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me. . . I am the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. . . I am the root and offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. . . Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so come Lord Jesus." Rev. 22: 20.