Moment of Encounter Devotional
By Prophet Dr. Abiodun Adesida
Topic: The Doctrine of the Last Seen
Main Text: “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” – Matthew 24:44
1. Legal Meaning of the Doctrine of the Last Seen
In criminal law, the Doctrine of the Last Seen places legal responsibility on a person who was last seen with someone who later turns up missing, injured, or dead. If no credible explanation is given, the law assumes guilt or complicity. The reasoning is that the accused had the last opportunity to influence or affect the victim’s outcome.
Key Legal Principles:
Burden of explanation lies on the last seen individual.
Silence or evasion becomes a voice of suspicion.
Presence and proximity have weight in determining responsibility.
2. The Kingdom Perspective: God’s Own Doctrine of the “Last Seen”
God, the righteous Judge, also evaluates His people by where they are last seen spiritually. Heaven records not just how we start, but how we end, and where we stand when the trumpet sounds.
Biblical Examples:
*Lot’s Wife was last seen looking back — she perished in disobedience (Genesis 19:26).*
*Demas was last seen loving the world (2 Timothy 4:10).*
*Judas Iscariot was last seen betraying his Master with a kiss (Luke 22:48).*
*The faithful servant was last seen doing his master’s will and was rewarded (Matthew 24:45-47).*
3. Christian Parallels and Reflections
A. Your Life is a Witness
Just as in law, the people and environment you are last associated with can testify about you. In the Spirit, your fellowship, activities, and character leave footprints.
2 Corinthians 3:2 – “Ye are our epistle... known and read of all men.”
You don’t need to speak — your life speaks for you.
When Jesus returns, will He find faith in you? (Luke 18:8)
B. We Are Responsible for Our Influence
Like the accused in court, you may be held responsible for those around you — especially those you influence spiritually. Were you a stumbling block or a stepping stone?
Ezekiel 3:18 – If you fail to warn the wicked, his blood is required at your hand.
We must live responsibly in light of eternity.
C. Last Seen in Obedience or Rebellion?
The parables of Jesus repeatedly emphasize being watchful and ready. When the bridegroom arrives, it’s too late to trim your lamp. When the Master returns, your last known posture will determine your reward or punishment.
Matthew 25:1–13 – Five foolish virgins were last seen unprepared.
Luke 12:45–46 – A servant found in rebellion at the Master's return is judged severely.
4. Lessons from the Doctrine of the Last Seen
Lesson 1: God Keeps Records of Our Spiritual Whereabouts
Heaven records not only what you do, but where you are found in your walk with God. Where you are found spiritually is more important than what you claim verbally.
Lesson 2: You Cannot Fake Presence
In court, it doesn’t matter if you deny it. If witnesses and evidence say you were last seen there, your denial becomes irrelevant. Similarly, you can’t deceive God about your spiritual position.
“The Lord knows those who are His...” (2 Timothy 2:19)
Lesson 3: Fellowship Matters
Who are you spiritually walking with? Who influences you? The people you are “last seen with” determine your standing before God.
“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked…” (Psalm 1:1)
Lesson 4: The Second Coming is a Test of Readiness
Jesus is coming unannounced, like a thief in the night. Will He find you standing, or will He find you fallen?
“Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” (1 Corinthians 10:12)
5. Life Applications for the End-Time Church
1. Examine Your Walk Daily
Ask: If Jesus returns today, where would He find me — in secret sin or in holy service?
2. Abide in Christ Always
Let your “last seen” spiritual location be in Christ, in worship, and in righteousness.
“Abide in Me, and I in you...” (John 15:4)
3. Watch and Pray
Spiritual vigilance ensures you're not caught off guard.
“Watch therefore and pray always…” (Luke 21:36)
4. Keep Your Oil Full
Don’t be like the foolish virgins whose lamps went out. Maintain intimacy with the Holy Spirit.
Daily devotion, fasting, Word study, and worship are your spiritual oil reserves.
6. Final Reflection
✓Where will you be last seen?
✓Will you be last seen worshipping or wandering?
✓Last seen praying or playing?
✓Last seen serving or sleeping?
Heaven is watching. Angels are recording. The time is short. The signs are clear. And the Judge is near. The Doctrine of the Last Seen is not just legal — it is eternal.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, awaken my spirit to the urgency of this hour. May I never be found in disobedience or slumber. Help me to be spiritually alert, constantly abiding in Your presence. When You come, may I be found faithful and ready. Let my last seen record before heaven be one of holiness, service, and intimacy with You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Your Brother,
Prophet Dr. Abiodun Adesida
CAC IBUDO ONA ABAYỌ
cacsolutioncenter@outlook.com
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