To speak of the world coming to an end would have branded
one as a fanatic a few years ago. But today even the most brilliant and
respected have expressed their conviction that this world may very possibly
come to an end.
The Holy Bible speaks of this world and its destiny. Its message is
not "It may come to an end, "but "It will come to an end." One day 2000
years ago Jesus Christ was asked, "What will be the sign of Your coming,
and of the end...?" Matthew
24:3. He answered by pointing to events which would take place and
then added, "When you see all these things, know that it is near - even
at the doors!" Matthew
24:33
Jesus and Bible writers give us unmistekable signs that
will precede the second coming of Jesus and the end of this world. Signs
which meet their ultimate fulfillment when the world is experiencing the
worst turmoil in its history.
1. Signs in the religious world. "For many will come in My name, saying,
'I am the Christ, ' and will deceive many." Matthew
24:5. Thousands are turning to those who claim to have divine knowledge.
False religions are increasing. Cults, psychic phenomena, astrology, spiritism
and the occult are deceiving people and leading them away from the one
true God.
2. Signs in the political world. "You will hear of wars and rumors
of wars... nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom."
Mathew
24:6,7. This century has seen more world conflicts than any previous
century. While nations talk peace and disarmament there is restlessness
and instability. Jesus said there would be"distress with perplexity. "Luke
21:25. Scripture says, "When they say 'Peace and seafety!'then sudden
destruction comes upon them." 1
Thessalonians 5:3. The only safety and security is in knowing Jesus
Christ and being ready each day for His return.
3. Signs in the natural world. "There will be famines, pestilences,
and earthquakes in various places. "Matthew
24:7.
Our generation has witnessed a dramatic increase in famines, strange
diseases, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. Scientist earn of the
deterioration of our planet. If Jesus doesn't come soon, we'll destroy
ourselves. The only solution to the ills of our world is Christ's second
coming.
4. Signs in the economic world. "Weep and howl ... Your riches are
corrupted, and your garments are moth eaten. Your gold and silver are corroded...
You have heaped up treasure in the last days." James
5:1-3. Here is an indication of sudden loss of health, a sudden devaluation
of currency with inflation and other economic difficulties just before
Jesus returns. Many economists believe we're on the verge of economic disaster.
Jesus must come soon.
5. Sings in the social world. Jesus said, "As the days of Noah were,
so also will the coming of the Son of Man be." Matthew
24:37. Declining morality, increasing crime and violence, the break-up
of marriages and corruption at all levels of society tell us Jesus must
come soon or we'll destroy our civilization.
Jesus said, "This gospel is going to the world ... then the end will
come." Matthew 24:14.
The gospel is going to the world. Jesus is coming soon. He is coming
to receive those who love Him and trust Him. Make Jesus first in your life
and you have nothing to fear for the future.