35. What is the End Times?
Key Verses / Passages
Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven (the sky)? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven. Acts 1:11
Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. Hebrews 1:1-3
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Discussion
Jesus promised to return to collect his followers, (Matthew 24:1-31); but he didn’t say when (Matt 24:36). Angels also declared he would return (Acts 1:11). The apostles and disciples were so expectant that He would be back soon that they sold all they had, sharing it with one another and stopped working so as to be ready to go with Him.
Jesus give his followers some indications of what to look for but seemed less concerned that they know the exact time; and more concerned that they would be expectant, active and ready.
Jesus told the parables of the ten virgins (bridesmaids) (Matt 25:1-13) waiting for the groom to come back and claim his bride, after he had been home to prepare a place for the newlyweds to live. Even within the parable, he told them to “keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”
In short, the term “the end times” can refer to the whole story of Jesus return and restoration of His kingship on Earth. There’s a whole series of misconceptions about this “time” but effectively it is a series of events associated with the end of the world as we know it; according to biblical prophecy. It is also known as the “Last Days”.
Many groups focus on the “Last Days” as a big, scary issue, they want to be seen as the group that saves the world. The issue here is that Jesus has already created salvation. All we have to do is accept it. Job done! Anything that happens after that is within His control.
Matthew 24 and 25 is a whole section of Jesus’ teaching about the start of the end times. That is, the destruction of Jerusalem from the dispersion of the Jews & Christians across the world and the end of the world. Jesus is encouraging us to be diligent in expecting His return, not to be slovenly and forgetful, loving others, caring for the sick and needy, honouring our parents and inviting others to join His family.
The last book of the Bible, Revelation, is normally the go-to book for the “end times” and is worth reading. The issue is that as a new believer, there is much in there that doesn’t resonate with modern culture and understanding. It will take some research to fully comprehend.
The End Times, when Jesus returns, are coming - Jesus says to be ready… you have taken the first and second steps, keep going!
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Reflection / Questions
• If we cannot know the precise date and time of the return of Jesus, how does this affect what you do, think and say each day?
• What answer will you have ready for someone if they ask you for your hope in heaven?
• What answer will you have for someone who persecutes you, instructing you to renounce your faith in Jesus?
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Prayer
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for providing a blessed hope of your return. Please help me be diligent and focused, growing in knowledge of and love for, you and your people. You know my heart and inclinations, please shape me to be like the wise virgins - being watchful and waiting for you.