Signs of the End Times
Let’s talk about the signs that the Bible says will happen before the end times. We’ll look at natural and global events, moral and societal changes, and key prophetic signs. I’ll explain these in simple terms with practical examples and stories.
Natural and Global Events
The Bible mentions that certain natural and global events will occur before the end times.
- Earthquakes, Famines, and Plagues
Example: Imagine hearing about many earthquakes happening all over the world. This would be unusual and a sign that something significant is happening.
Key Passage: Matthew 24:7
Scripture: “There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.”
Explanation: Jesus said that earthquakes, famines (shortages of food), and plagues (widespread diseases) are signs that the end times are near.
Story: In the past few years, you might have heard about more frequent and severe earthquakes, food shortages in different parts of the world, and diseases spreading quickly. These events can remind us of what Jesus talked about in the Bible.
- Wars and Rumors of Wars
Example: Imagine always hearing about conflicts and wars on the news. This constant unrest can be a sign of the end times.
Key Passage: Matthew 24:6
Scripture: “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.”
Explanation: Jesus said that there will be many wars and talks of wars, but we should not be afraid because these things must happen before the end.
Story: Many people around the world live in areas with ongoing conflicts or fear of war. These situations remind us of Jesus’ words and the need to trust in God’s plan.
Moral and Societal Changes
The Bible also describes changes in morals and society that will happen before the end times.
- Increase in Wickedness
Example: Imagine a society where people don’t care about what is right or wrong and just do whatever they want, even if it hurts others.
Key Passage: Matthew 24:12
Scripture: “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold.”
Explanation: Jesus said that as wickedness (evil behavior) increases, many people’s love for others will grow cold.
Story: If you look around, you might see more people acting selfishly or hurting others. This increase in wickedness is a sign that Jesus talked about.
- People Turning Away from God
Example: Think about friends who used to believe in God but now say they don’t care anymore or follow other beliefs.
Key Passage: 2 Timothy 3:1-5
Scripture: “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.”
Explanation: Paul describes how people will act in the last days, focusing on themselves and turning away from God.
Story: We can see many examples of people becoming more focused on themselves and material things, rather than on God and helping others. This is another sign of the end times.
Key Prophetic Signs Mentioned in the Bible
- The Gospel Preached to All Nations
Example: Imagine hearing that the message of Jesus is being shared in every corner of the world.
Key Passage: Matthew 24:14
Scripture: “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
Explanation: Jesus said that the good news about Him will be shared all over the world before the end comes.
Story: With technology and missionaries, the message of Jesus is reaching more and more places. This fulfillment is a key sign that the Bible talks about.
- The Rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem
Example: Imagine hearing about plans to rebuild an important building in a faraway city.
Key Passage: 2 Thessalonians 2:4
Scripture: “He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God.”
Explanation: Paul talks about a time when someone will set themselves up in God’s temple, indicating that the temple will be rebuilt in Jerusalem.
Story: There has been much talk and preparation for the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem, which is a significant prophetic sign.
Conclusion
The Bible gives us many signs to watch for as the end times approach. Here’s a quick summary:
- Natural and Global Events: Earthquakes, famines, plagues, and wars.
- Moral and Societal Changes: Increase in wickedness and people turning away from God.
- Key Prophetic Signs: The gospel preached to all nations and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.
Scriptural Encouragement: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” – Matthew 24:42
By understanding these signs, we can be better prepared and stay faithful to God, knowing that His plan is unfolding. Keep reading your Bible, praying, and staying close to God!
