The anticipation of Christ’s Second Coming is deeply ingrained in Christian theology, drawing from numerous prophecies scattered throughout the Bible. These prophecies serve as guideposts for believers, offering glimpses into the signs and events that will precede the glorious return of Jesus Christ. Let us embark on a journey through scripture to unravel these profound truths and gain a deeper understanding of the times preceding the Second Coming.
Matthew 24:6-8 (AMP)
- And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that you are not frightened or troubled, for this must take place, but the end is not yet.
- for nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in place after place;
- All this is but the beginning [the early pains] of the birth pangs [of the intolerable anguish]. Jesus himself warns of wars and rumors of wars as one of the signs heralding his return. The world has been marred by conflicts and geopolitical tensions, underscoring the relevance of this prophecy in today’s context. Luke 21:11-12 (AMP)
- There will be mighty and violent earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences (plagues: malignant and contagious or infectious epidemic diseases which are deadly and devastating); and there will be sights of terror and great signs from heaven.
- But previous to all this, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, turning you over to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be led away before kings and governors for my name’s sake. This scripture speaks of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and famines, as indicators of the approaching end times. The frequency and intensity of such calamities serve as poignant reminders of the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.
Another significant sign outlined Matthew 24:11-12 (GNB)
- Then many false prophets will appear and fool many people.
- Such will be the spread of evil that many people’s love will grow cold. Is the emergence of false prophets and deception? In an age characterized by spiritual pluralism and relativism, discernment becomes paramount for believers to navigate through the maze of false teachings. Moreover, persecution of Christians, Matthew 24:9-10 (AMP)
- Then they will hand you over to suffer affliction and tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake.
- And then many will be offended and repelled and will begin to distrust and desert [Him Whom they ought to trust and obey] and will stumble and fall away and betray one another and pursue one another with hatred. This a stark reality in many parts of the world today. The plight of persecuted believers serves as a testament to the veracity of biblical prophecy.
Despite the challenges and adversities, the gospel continues to spread to all corners of the earth, fulfilling the prophecy mentioned in Matthew 24:14. Through modern technology and missionary endeavors, the message of salvation reaches people in the remotest regions, paving the way for the fulfillment of Christ’s mandate before his return. However, amidst the spreading of the gospel, there is also a great apostasy, as warned in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 (AMP)
- Let no one deceive or beguile you in any way, for that day will not come except the apostasy comes first [unless the predicted great falling away of those who have professed to be Christians has come], and the man of lawlessness (sin) is revealed, who is the son of doom (of perdition), [2/22, 09:14] Kimeons Wonderful Delights: Daniel 7:25-26 (AMP)
- And he shall speak words against the Most High [God] and shall wear out the saints of the Most High and think to change the time [of sacred feasts and holy days] and the law; and the saints shall be given into his hand for a time, two times, and half a time [three and one-half years]. [Rev. 13:1-6.]
- But the judgment shall be set [by the court of the Most High], and they shall take away his dominion to consume it [gradually] and to destroy it [suddenly] in the end.
[2/22, 09:15] Kimeons Wonderful Delights: Daniel 8:25 (AMP)
- And through his policy he shall cause trickery to prosper in his hand; he shall magnify himself in his heart and mind, and in their security he will corrupt and destroy many. He shall also stand up against the Prince of princes, but he shall be broken and that by no [human] hand. [Rev. 19:19, 20.] I Tim. 4:1.]The departure from the faith and moral decay witnessed in society today echo the prophetic words of scripture.
A significant event preceding the Second Coming is the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, as foretold in Matthew 24:15. Discussions surrounding the Temple Mount and geopolitical developments in the Middle East point to the relevance of this prophecy in contemporary times. These signs, meticulously recorded in scripture, serve as reminders for believers to remain vigilant and prepared for the imminent return of Christ.
As we reflect on the signs of the Second Coming, it is essential to approach them with a sense of discernment and spiritual readiness. These signs are not meant to instill fear or anxiety but to serve as reminders of the ultimate hope that believers have in Christ. The fulfillment of biblical prophecy underscores the sovereignty of God and the certainty of his plan for redemption.
Moreover, the signs of the Second Coming compel believers to examine their own lives and spiritual walk. Are we actively proclaiming the gospel amidst a world shrouded in darkness? Are we standing firm in the face of persecution and remaining faithful to Christ? Are we discerning the truth amidst the deception that permeates society?
In the midst of uncertainty, the words of Jesus in Matthew 24:42 ring true: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” This admonition serves as a call to readiness and vigilance, urging believers to live each day with an eternal perspective, eagerly awaiting the return of their Savior.
Furthermore, the signs of the Second Coming should inspire believers to engage in fervent prayer and intercession for the salvation of souls. As we witness the fulfillment of prophecy unfolding before our eyes, our hearts should be burdened for those who have yet to experience the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Let us fervently pray for revival and spiritual awakening in our communities and nations, knowing that the time is short and the harvest is ripe.
Ultimately, the signs of the Second Coming point to the imminent fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. While the exact timing may remain unknown, believers can take comfort in the certainty of God’s promises and the assurance of Christ’s victorious return. As we navigate through the complexities of these times, let us hold fast to our faith, standing firm on the unshakeable foundation of God’s Word.
In conclusion, the signs of the Second Coming serve as reminders of the hope, assurance, and expectancy that believers have in Christ. As we eagerly await his return, may we be found faithful, fervently proclaiming the gospel, living lives of holiness and godliness, and watching and praying always? For truly, the signs of the times point to the glorious culmination of God’s redemptive plan and the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death
*Prosper Tingini is the Scribe of the Children of God Missionary Assembly-God’s Messenger .
Mobile & WhatsApp — 0771260195. Email address: ptingini@gmail.com