Read Mark 13:1-13
Know The Signs Of The End Times.
As Jesus was leaving the temple, one of his disciples commented on the massive stones used to make the temple and other buildings. He said the buildings were “MAGNIFICENT!” Jesus replied, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone here will be left on another; every stone will be thrown down.”
Later, four disciples asked Jesus, “Tell us, when will these things happen? What will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?”
Jesus answered them:
1. Don’t be deceived when people say they are the Messiah.
2. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but don’t be alarmed, such things must happen.
3. There will be earthquakes and famines.
4. Followers of Christ will be persecuted.
5. Persecuted Christians will have opportunities to share Jesus with governors and kings.
6. The Holy Spirit will give you words to speak, so don’t worry.
7. Family members will put other family members to death because of their faith in Jesus.
All the things mentioned above are currently happening today. There are a slew of names of people who have claimed to be the Messiah. Don’t be deceived. When Jesus comes back to Earth, he’s not sticking around. He’s gathering the followers of Christ who have died and who are currently living and taking them to heaven.
There are always rumors of wars and earthquakes. 25,000 people die a day from starvation. Starvation is a major factor in global deaths. Christians are being persecuted for their faith all over the world. So how do we respond to all of this? Jesus said:
Don’t be deceived. Don’t worry because it has to happen. It’s opportunities to be witnesses for Jesus. The gospel must be preached to the world. We must be on guard. The holy spirit will be with us and help us know what to say.
For those of us who live in the USA, we face persecution but not to the intensity of what 50 other countries in the world face. But these principles mentioned still apply.
1. Lord help us not to be DECEIVED into thinking that those living in an ungodly manner, somehow have it better off than the Christians. We all will face judgment.
2. Don’t worry about all the chaos in the world. It must happen. so put your hope in Jesus as you persevere and don’t give up.
3. Use the attacks of your faith as opportunities to respond in love and even share your faith verbally if possible. The Holy Spirit will help you. This is important. The world needs to hear it.
4. Endure to the end and you’ll be saved.
Lord, help us apply these principles to our lives daily and not give in to the devil’s lies.
