Developing a Maranatha Mindset (Part One)

From the desk of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible Teacher & Expositor. These teachings are comprised of excerpts from my book, “Maranatha, A Biblical Mindset.” In J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic, The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, there’s a character, Peregrin Took, also known as Pippin, and a hobbit of the Shire. In one compelling scene, Pippin sings a song for the Steward of Gondor. The song is entitled, Home is Behind, The World Ahead. However, for maranatha-minded believers in Christ, the song is, The World is Behind, Home is Ahead! In other words, maranatha-minded Christians are astutely aware that this world is not their home! Our home is ahead! What does the word maranatha mean? It’s an Aramaic word having one of two meanings: “Our Lord come” or “Come Lord Jesus.” The meaning behind these wonderful words points to a prayer or petition for the Lord to come. Paul teaches, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus” (Titus 2:11-13). What is a mindset? It’s defined as, “a habitual mental attitude that determines how a person interprets and responds to situations and circumstances.” In other words, when responding to the situation and circumstances of life, does your mind turn to the awesome truth of the Lord’s appearing? When your mind turns to that truth, does your heart and soul want it? Is there an eagerness, a zeal or enthusiasm to see Him? Do you pray for His coming? Maranatha prayed the early church! That’s the maranatha mindset! Be encouraged!