There will always be a fascination with the end times. There will be those who study every detail of scripture in an attempt to pinpoint a date and those who simply believe the end is near because of our current moral decay. Debates will continue about when Christ will return for His Church and exactly what signs will precede this wonderful event. Unfortunately, these debates often become heated and divisive, and turn our attention away from the One who has promised to return.
Questions concerning the end times are not new. Two thousand years ago, the disciples asked Jesus: “What will be the signs of Your coming and of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3). Jesus answered the question directly and in several parables, but His basic message was: “You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him” (Matthew 24:44).
There is nothing fundamentally wrong with discussing the end times. The return of Jesus Christ is our “blessed hope” (Titus 2:13). We are encouraged to live as those “who have longed for His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8). But we should never allow our discussions to lead us into “foolish and stupid arguments” (2 Timothy 2:23). Though the scholars may not agree about all the details, one fact is unanimously proclaimed: “He’s coming back!”
Mark 13:35-37
“Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back – whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!'”
Are we ready for the Owner of the House to return? We can’t afford to wait for that next promotion or for the kids to grow; we must wake up and be prepared today! We can’t wait for our house to be built to our satisfaction before we dedicate it to the service of the Lord; we must give our all and serve the One who gave His life so we could live…today!!
If the end of our time on earth were to occur tomorrow, did our thoughts, words, and deeds for today bring glory and honor to our Heavenly Father? If the answer is no, we need to do some changing – we need to arise from our spiritual slumber and clean house. For what is the purpose of our being allowed to walk this earth if not to bring Him glory?
The study and discussion of end times should cause us to praise God for His victory over evil. Our understanding of the end times should cause us to walk in reverent obedience and help us to fight the pulls of the world. Let’s not be caught sleeping. Rather, let’s look forward with great anticipation and commit to being prepared. Let’s draw near to God in all we do and watch for His return.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries
**** Reading Plan ****
Apr 23 Judges 1:1-2:10; Luke 21:29-22:13; Psalm 90:1-91:16; Proverbs 13:24-25
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