The end is near. At least, that’s what we’re told in the bible. But how close is the end of times? According to many, is will happen in the next twenty years. What exactly will happen? Though much of this is left to interpretation, the message is quite precise: Almost everything on earth will be destroyed and only God’s chosen ones will remain.
Let’s take a bird’s eye view of the prophecies of the bible and apply them to modern technology and worldwide conflicts. First, in Matthew’s gospel, Jesus describes what will precede the great tribulation.
“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that you are not alarmed; for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.” (Matthew 24:6-7)
Current world issues involving Iran, North Korea and Israel could be the wars referred to in the bible. Then again, there have been rumors of war ever long before the new millennium… What makes 2006 so special?
The bible tells us about specific events to occur shortly before the tribulation: “When you see Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, you will know that its desolation is near.” (Luke 21:20)
Aside from the obvious decay in today’s society, sins of the mind, of the flesh and of lust, like gambling, pornography, sexual impurities and defiance of the law installed by government, our world has been plagued with more natural disasters than ever recorded in history.
This too is prophesied in the bible: “And there will be famines and earthquakes in various places: all this is but the beginning of the birth-pangs.” (Matthew 24:8)
“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea.” (Luke 21:20-24)
What are we to expect next? The bible tell us about the great balls of fire that will come from the sky, also that the oceans, lakes and rivers will turn to blood and everything in it will die. God’s word also tells us that all the trees of the earth and the grass will be burnt up. The bible tells us there will be a great famine and that billions will die. The book of Revelation describes locusts bursting from the center of the earth and all that’s listed above.
The word also warns us of the coming of the antichrist riding a white horse setting out to conquer the world. A ruler and a warrior, the antichrist posing at the Lord will be at the root of the third world war described in John’s Revelation.
But who is this antichrist? Is he even alive yet? While Muslims point their finger in our direction, we are busy naming middle east rulers as potential antichrist. The fact of the matter is no one know who this crowned horseman is, all we know is that he will bring deceit and war upon the earth like never before.
The truth is there is no way to precisely predict who the antichrist is or, when he will come. The only certainty is that believers will in inherit the kingdom of God. Though it is almost impossible not to show concerns about the end of days, it is comforting to know servant of the Lord Jesus Christ will be returned to a glorious new Jerusalem and rewarded according to their work.
“And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work.” (Revelation 22:12)
Since there is no way to prevent the tribulation, the wars, famine, horrifying death toll and the destruction of the earth, it is wise to rely on our faith in Jesus Christ according to His word knowing He will redeem us.
“And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and upon the earth distress of nations in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, men fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:25-28)
The real danger lies within the hearts of those who do not yet believe. What are you waiting for? Do you not realize you are soon to face judgment or worse, the end of days? In spite of your belief or unbelief, I invite you to take the first step toward salvation and eternal rewards and read John’s Revelation. It’s the last book of the bible and though not an easy read, it can be quite the springboard toward holiness.
Are you struggling with the book of Revelation? Or with your faith? If so we are here to help. Do not hesitate to contact us with any question, comment or prayer request so we may assist you further and possibly allow you to develop a more mature relationship with Jesus Christ. Hope, love and peace awaits you.
Understand the end is near. Also, know that through Christ, the end is only the beginning. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for this day and for all your blessings in our lives
We praise you father for all that came, all that is, and that will be,
Lord we pray you will return quickly and save us from this world
Save us from temptation, from doom and from evil.
Lord we thank you for looking after us, our friends and families
And guiding our footsteps each and every day,
So that we may enter your kingdom by the narrow gate
Rather than be cast out in the lake of fire reserved for evildoers.
We pray you will continue to bless our lives like only you can
We praise you Lord in thankfulness and love,
And we ask that you continue to shine your light bright
Upon us until your return.
Thank you lord father for your ever growing splendor.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
