It is obvious to all of us that we are living in very difficult times, and in a very troubled country. We can speculate all day long as to why things are happening, but we always need to come back to what God tells us in His word. And He makes it clear that sin is our number one problem, and that it affects and relates to everything going on in our world today. Because of this, I felt compelled to write a blog post on the subject of sinners, but it kept getting longer and longer, and finally, it became an article: Evil Doers in the End-Times. I strongly encourage you to take the time to read this, and then pass it on to others. Listed below are the main points in this article. All these truths about sin, sinners, and the solution, must be properly understood by Christians, and especially now that we live in the end-times, in a country and world that is increasingly growing more sinful and wicked, for only then can we live for God in a godly and fruitful way.
1) Do you notice all the wickedness in the world, and that it’s getting worse?
2) Why sinners are sinners.
3) Sinners are not thinking right.
4) Some sinners are worse than other sinners.
5) Stay away from those who are evil and wicked.
6) Some sinners may not appear to be sinners.
7) God will protect you from those who are wicked.
8) The devil and his army of demons work through sinners.
9) Part of God’s plan is to work through evildoers.
10) God is sovereign over all evildoers and uses them for His purposes.
11) How are we to live in this world of wrongdoers?
12) Evil men and imposters will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
13) God will judge the wicked in His time.
14) What should we say to sinners?
15) Saintly living in a sinful world
16) The devilish end-times’ deception of sinners
17) What needs to be understood is that we live in a sinful world, and it’s going to get worse.
18) This subject of sinners and God’s dealings with them needs to be understood.
19) What Christians need to know is the hope we have.
These are extremely tough times, very difficult days for those living in the United States. There’s the Covid virus, children still not in school, the election controversy, the Capitol riot, the impeachment, freedoms being taken away, and the greatest political division since the Civil War. These things can lead to worry, anger, and being overwhelmed, unless you look to the Lord and are trusting Him. But how does God want you to process what’s presently happening in our country? What does He want you to do?
* Fix your eyes on Jesus. Look to Jesus and cast your cares on Him instead of trying to figure everything out. Love Him and stay close to Him. And ask God to give you the peace He wants you to have. “Be still and know that I am God, I will be exalted among the nations.” Ps. 46:10, Phil. 4:4-6, 1 Pet. 5:7
* Know that God is sovereign. When troubles abound, know that God is still in control, that He reigns, that His will is being carried out, that all things are going according to His plan. “He does according to His will in the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of earth; and no one can ward off His hand or say to Him, ‘What have you done?’” Dan. 4:35, Is. 46:9-11
* See the big picture. “God changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings; He gives wisdom to wise men and knowledge to men of understanding” (Dan. 2:21). What’s been going on in our country these past 50-60 years has been ordained by God. A humanistic educational system, a rapid decline in morality, a growing socialistic government, increasing globalism, technological advancements, and super-quick communication – God is sovereign over it all. All the leaders we have had, and now the new President – God is sovereign over this as well. And God wants to give you wisdom, which means He wants you to know where all this is headed, that His Son, Jesus Christ, is coming back and will establish His kingdom on this earth. “The God of heaven will set up a kingdom which will never be destroyed” (Dan. 2:44). “His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will worship and obey Him.” Dan. 7:27, Rev. 11:15
* Know where it all leads. Everything that’s been taking place, whether it has to do with the past 50-60 years, 2020, or what’s been happening in the past few weeks, relates to God’s plans for the future. It may be puzzling to you, but not to God, for all things, all people, all events, all problems, all countries, all the puzzle pieces, are fitting together in just the way He has planned, and are all leading to that time when Christ returns, raptures the church, judges the world, and sets up His kingdom on this earth. “… with a view to an administration suitable to the fulness of times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth. In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will.” Eph. 1:9-11
* Don’t worry about evil people. Don’t fret, for God will deal with those who are wicked, and if they don’t repent, will judge them. “Evildoers will be cut off, but those who wait for the Lord, they will inherit the land” (Ps. 37:9-15, 11:5-7). While rulers may think they have all this power and can do whatever they want, God knows they are but fools. He is laughing at them, scoffing at them, and warning them to repent or else. God wants them, and us, to know that He has already installed His Son as the true and future King over this entire world. Psalm 2
* Understand Biblical prophecy. God has already told you everything you need to know about the future. “Take heed; behold, I have told you everything ahead of time” (Mark 13:23). All that God wants you to know about what will be happening before Christ’s coming is found in His word, in Matt. 24, Luke 21, 1-2 Thess., Daniel, and Revelation. In these years leading up to Christ’s return, there will be birth pains, false teachers, increasing lawlessness, the signing of a treaty, the building of a Jewish temple, that devilish Antichrist, great tribulation, and finally, signs in the heavens signaling the end of this age. And all that is now taking place and will take place in our world must be seen in the context of these end-times’ Bible prophecies. Don’t worry, be at peace, for God is working all things together for your good, and for His purposes and glory. Rom. 8:28-29
* Don’t get caught up in conspiracy thinking. Isaiah 8:12-13 warns us, “You are not to say, ‘It is a conspiracy!’ in regard to all that this people call a conspiracy, and you are not to fear or be in dread of it. It is the Lord of hosts whom you should regard as holy, and He shall be your fear.” Many people are speculating, saying things that may or may not be true, but you don’t know for sure. Be very careful to what you listen to, things political or spiritual, things that may sound interesting, but oftentimes are far-fetched, and seem un-believable. In these days, do not waste your time on fantastical theories, do not be led astray by worldly ideas. May God’s prophetic word give you the right perspective, a proper framework by which you can know what is right and wrong, can discern what is true and false. Trust the Lord, and not men. Focus on God’s word, and not human words. 2 Tim. 2:14-18, 1 John 4:6
* Christ is building the church. “I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matt. 16:18). When you think about this country and the world we live in, you may get discouraged and wonder if God is winning, if His work is really being carried out. This verse is to remind and encourage you that God, through Jesus Christ, is doing exactly what He wants to do. His plans for the church are precisely and perfectly being carried out, and will never be thwarted by the devil or anyone else. Prov. 21:30, Is. 46:9-11,
* Do the work God gives you to do. “Do business with this until I come back” (Luke 19:13). It’s easy to be distracted and think too much about what’s going on in the world. But be thinking about what God wants you to do, and keep building your part of the wall. This means loving Christ, living for Christ, being in a good church, using your spiritual gift, and being united with others in making disciples. Neh. 4; Matt. 28:19-20; Eph. 2:10
* God’s word is not chained. “I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not chained” (2 Tim. 2:9). There is no doubt that the devil is at work, and wants to prevent you and all Christians from preaching the word. When you see and hear of his evil activity, don’t fret or fear, but remember that God is the Lord God Almighty and the Chief Communicator, and that His word, His gospel message, will be preached and will bear fruit. But be wise, keep praying, and persevere in getting God’s word out to the lost, to the unsaved. Mark 13:9-11, Phil. 1:12-18
What a time to be alive! The church age will soon come to an end, but lots needs to happen and much work still needs to be done. Stay close to God and to Christians, keep the big picture in mind, be led by the Spirit, and keep doing the work God has assigned you to do. And it may be that Christ’s return and the rapture of the church is much closer than you think. “Do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over, the day is almost here. Therefore, let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” Romans 13:11-12
P.S. I hope and pray that you are excited to be living in the end-times, and that you are learning what God wants you to know, and are doing what He wants you to do. “What the Bible Says About the Future”is a great summary of God’s plans for these years leading up to Christ’s return, and what comes after that.
I often think about the future, specifically that most wonderful moment when Jesus Christ returns to rapture the church and take us to our heavenly home. I also think about what leads up to that moment, that most difficult time when the Antichrist is on earth and Christians are going through great tribulation. And to think that God wants us to be alive at this time in history and be part of His end-time’s plans should both excite us and sober us. John 15:16, Acts 17:26
With this God-planned future in view, what should you do? First, you need to know what will be happening. Jesus says, “Behold, I have told you everything ahead of time” (Mark 13:23). That means you need to study prophecy passages like Matt. 24, Mark 13, Luke 21, 1 and 2 Thess., and Revelation. I also encourage you to read the posts and articles found on this blog site. Second, read His word and do what He has told you to do. Last week I went over seven key Bible truths about how you are to live: your relationship with Christ, your identify, faith, humility, prayer, purpose, and thankfulness. Today I will look at seven more.
Obedience. The main way you fulfill God’s purpose for your life is by obeying His commands, many that are very basic, but so, so important. Mark 12:30 – “Love the Lord your God with all your heart.” John 15:17 – “This I command you, that you love one another.” 1 Pet. 1:16 – “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” Prov. 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.” Eph. 5:18 – “Be filled with the Spirit.” Matt. 6:33 – “Seek first the kingdom of God.” Matt. 28:19 – “Go make disciples of all the nations.” When you carry out these commands God will be glorified, His purposes will be fulfilled, and you and the church will be forever blessed. Psalm 119:1-8
Holiness. As a Christian, you are perfectly righteous in God’s sight, you have been forgiven of all your sins, and you are a saint, which means a holy one. And now you are to live like a saint – you are not to be worldly or sinful, you are not to be angry, bitter, proud, lazy, selfish, dishonest, covetous, impure, or immoral. The main way this happens is by the work of God’s word and the Holy Spirit in your life. “Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You.” (Ps. 119:11). Some wonderful results of being holy are peace, a close relationship with God, spiritual growth, and being useful to God. 1 Jn. 5:5-9, 2 Tim. 2:21
Promises. The Christian life isn’t just doing what God wants you to do, but also knowing what He is doing for you. And much of what God does is seen in His promises to you, and the church. Here are some of them: Ps. 23:6 – “Goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life.” Ps. 32:8 – “I will lead you in the way that you should go.” Ps. 46:10 – “I will be exalted among the nations.” Matt. 16:18 – “I will build the church.” 1 Cor. 1:8-9 – “God will keep you strong to the end so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Heb. 13:5 – “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.” Rev. 22:20 – “I am coming soon.” These promises about the future, the hope God has for you, are crucial, for they help you get your eyes off yourself and onto God, and what He is and will be doing. 2 Peter 1:3-4
Church. The church, comprised of those who are true Christians, is the body of Christ, the spiritual family of God. It is primarily by the church that God’s truth is taught, His purposes are fulfilled, disciples are made, and there’s spiritual growth. And so you need this family, and by being part of it, there’s real love, joy, fellowship, and encouragement. Be assured, Christ will build His church, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it. Matt. 16:18, Eph. 1:3-14
Relationships. God does not want you to be a loner – which is another reason why you need the church. God’s desire is that there are Christians you can be close to, spend time with, talk to openly, give you counsel, pray for you, care for you, and who you can share your life with. But good relationships are godly friendships that go both ways. That is, there must be mutual concern, care, and love. In all this, we are talking about relationships that are committed to Christ, that are focusing on Christ and fulfilling His purposes. Then there will be real blessing, unity, fellowship, and progress for the Lord. Rom. 1:11-12, Col. 4:7-14, 2 Tim. 1:3-4
Character. Life is not just about what you do – it’s also about who you are, that you have godly character. This means being loving, kind, forgiving, patient, truthful, thankful, faithful, hopeful, courageous, rejoicing, loyal, diligent, persevering, a hard worker, and a fighter for what’s right. Of course, only God can build this godly character in your life. By His word, by the Holy Spirit, by prayer, through trials, and by learning from others, you will surely grow in character, you will be more Christlike, you will be effective for God. Rom. 5:3-5; 1 Tim. 4:11
Sacrifice. God did not save you and leave you on earth so you could make a name for yourself. Jesus sacrificed His life to save you from your sins, and so you could sacrifice your life and make a name for Him (Ps. 23:4, Eph. 5:1). When you love people, when you are kind, giving, and patient, then you are sacrificing your life for them, and for Him. Yes, sacrifice can be extremely difficult, but it’s worth it, for the glory of Christ, the good of others, and for your eternal blessing. And it may be that you will sacrifice your life by dying for Christ, that you are a martyr, but remember, He died for you (Rev. 6:9). “I urge you, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God.” Rom. 12:1. Luke 9:23
Each of these truths are vital if you are to live successfully for God. Ask Him to help you spiritually grow up so you can “walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called” (Eph. 4:1). As you know, we presently live in a very sinful, troubled, divided, and changing country, and this means great challenges and pressures. But what does not change is who God is, what He plans to do, who you are in Christ, and how you are to live for Him. Never forget that! And so no matter what’s happening now or will be happening in the future, keep looking to Christ. And if you are still on this earth when the Antichrist is revealed and devilishly ruling, don’t be afraid, don’t stress out, just remember to keep doing what God has taught you to do. This is the secret to success! “This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success. Have I not commanded you! Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:8-9
P.S. Here is an article that also tells us how God wants us to live: “Spiritual Survival Food for the Coming Tough Times.” My plan for the future is to put up a post every other week, which means the next one will come out on January 22 – it will be all about our magnificent brand new body! But if events come up necessitating a post more often, I will do so.
Are you looking forward to 2021? Yes? No? Yes and no? 2020 was a rough and difficult year for many of us. It did not turn out how we expected, with the pandemic, lockdowns, wearing masks, people getting sick, many dying, others losing jobs, not seeing family, and not going to church. All this, coupled with other challenging trials, has led to worry, anger, fear, and frustration. Without question, 2020 was a tough year, a strange year, the kind of year you don’t want to see again. So what do you think about the new year? What do you think is going to happen in 2021? More importantly, what are you planning to do? But most importantly, how are you to live for God when life seems like it’s out of control, when people are becoming increasingly evil, and when the world around you is growing worse and worse?
First, recognize that we live in a sinful, devil-controlled world. There will always be problems, trials, and just plain wickedness. In fact, the closer we get to Christ’s return to rapture the church, the harder life will get. Second, understand that God is sovereign over all things, including every aspect of your own life. Third, remember that God never changes, and the way you are to live for God never changes. Fourth, know what God wants you to know, be who He wants you to be, and do what He wants you to do. And how to live for God, this knowing, being, and doing, is all found in God’s word.
Psalm 119:87 – “They almost destroyed me on earth, but I have not forsaken Your precepts.” Psalm 119:92 – “If Your laws had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction.” Psalm 119:143 – “Trouble and distress come upon me, but Your commands give me delight.” Psalm 119:157 – “Many are the foes who persecute me, but I have not turned from Your statutes.” Do you see that we need God’s word in the midst of persecution, troubles, and affliction? Regardless of how many trials you face, the answer is to always keep trusting God and obeying His word. Holding on to God and His truth is the means to being truly safe and strong and being able to stay the course. No matter what happens in 2021, God and His unchanging word will keep you on the road He has planned out for you. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105
Here are seven truths you need to understand and apply to your life this year and for all time: 1. Your Relationship with God. Focus on your relationship with God. Know who He is, that He is the living God, your Creator, Lord, and Savior. Get to know Him, for He is loving, kind, wise, sovereign, holy, faithful, forgiving, gentle, and powerful. Love Him with all your heart. Worship Him. Enjoy Him. Stay close to Him (Ps. 63:8). Be satisfied by His love (Ps. 90:14). Spend time with Him (Phil. 3:10). Think of how Jesus got alone with His Father (Mark 1:35), how Mary sat at Jesus’ feet (Luke 10:40-42), and how Enoch walked with God. Gen. 5:21-24
2. Your identity. Believe what God says about you, not what the world says. Your identity is not about your race, color, sex, looks, build, upbringing, job, the money you have, the neighborhood you live in, or the things you own. It’s knowing that God Himself is your Creator, that you did not evolve from some animal, but that He made you in His own image. It means you have a soul, are eternal, are God’s most important creation, and are made to have a meaningful purpose in life. It means knowing you are a saint, a child of God, His servant, a temple of the Spirit, and a member of the church. These powerful and unchanging truths result in you realizing that you are special to God, and will help you fulfill His will for your life. Gen. 1:27, Eph. 1:4-5, 1 Cor. 6:19-20
3. Thankfulness. God commands you to thank Him, for it’s the right thing and a good thing to do. “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His lovingkindness is everlasting.” (Ps. 136:1, 1 Thess. 5:18, Col. 1:11-12). God has done so much for you, and if you don’t thank Him, you are ungrateful, you will be grumbling, and you won’t be spiritually happy – you will be miserable. Being thankful leads to more blessings, more fruitfulness, a positive attitude, and being a good witness.
4. Humility. Being humble is a result of knowing God for who He is, that He is the Lord God Almighty. It means you see who you are in relationship to Him, that He’s infinitely greater than you, that He’s your Master, and therefore you are His servant. Here are some benefits to being humble: you will fear God; you will praise God; you will pray to Him; you will serve God and others; you will learn from God and others; you will have good relationships; and you will be infinitely blessed. Always remember – “humble yourself in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.” James 4:10, Matt. 23:12
5. Faith. When you have faith, you are relying on God and not on yourself “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is the Lord” (Jer. 17:17:7-8). You are to trust God, even when you go through trials (1 Pet. 1:6-7). You are to depend on Him to love you, and to give you wisdom, strength, and direction in life. Spiritual success, along with grace, peace, joy and hope, all come from having faith, from believing God and His word. Heb. 11:6, Rom. 15:13
6. Prayer. A person who is praying has faith, is believing that God actually hears and answers His prayers (1 Jn. 5:14-15). With respect to Elijah it is said, “the effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much” (James 5:16b). About Epaphras, Paul said, “(he is) always laboring earnestly in his prayers, that you may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God” (Col. 4:12). At all times and in all situations, pray to God, and then you will be useful to Him, blessed by Him, and at peace. Neh. 2:4, Dan. 6:10-11, Phil. 4:6-7
7. Purpose. The Bible records many stories of people who did God’s work, and so too, He has given you work to do. “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Eph. 2:10). And Jesus Christ is our #1 example – “I brought You glory on earth by completing the work You gave Me to do” (John 17:4). As part of His team, as a member of the church, God has special assignments He wants you to carry out, and oftentimes it relates to the spiritual gift He has given you (1 Pet. 4:10). Ask God to show you the work He has planned out for you; be willing to do what He wants you to do; and obey His commands, for they will outline and lead you in the work He has for you.
Who knows what will happen in 2021? People sure don’t know – none of us can predict the future. But God, our heavenly Father, knows exactly what will be taking place in our little world as well as throughout this world. Yes, life can be hard, and may even be more difficult in 2021 than it was in 2020. In fact some who are reading this may be here when the Antichrist is ruling the world and bringing great tribulation. But no matter what happens, you need to always and in everything keep looking to Him. There is no question that God, working through His word and the Spirit, will enable you to be and do all that He wants this year and in the years ahead, all the way to the end of your life on this earth. “Yet I am always with You; You hold me by my right hand. You guide me with Your counsel, and afterward You will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but You, and besides You, I desire nothing on earth.” Psalm 73:23-25
P.S. What a blessing to have a new year! Of course, we know that our lives and our time is for God and His purposes. Here is a good article on time – “The Time of My Life,” and more instructions about how we are to live for God now and in the future – “What Does God Want Me to Do in the End-Times?”
Yes! Yes! Yes, Christ is coming again – and He’s coming soon. Jesus Christ, the Creator of heaven and earth, God in the flesh, the Son of God and Son of Man is, without question, coming back to this world. You need to know this and be convinced of this, and be looking forward to Christ’s return to rapture the church and reign over this earth.
About 2000 years ago Jesus Christ lived on this planet for the first time. In fact, many Old Testament verses predicted His coming, and also His purpose on this earth. Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53 say it best, that Jesus came to suffer, die, and pay for the sins of sinners – and all those who repent of their sins and believe that He died for them will be forgiven. After Jesus died, He rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and now sits at the right hand of the Father, awaiting that time when His Father sends Him back to this earth. Psalm 22:27-29, Acts 3:14-21
What does God’s word say about Christ’s coming? Jesus Himself promised that He was coming back. “The coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah” (Matt. 24:37). “I will come again and receive you to myself” (John 14:3). “Behold, I am coming soon” (Rev. 22:7, 12, 20). Peter talked about “the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Pet. 1:13). John told us, “We know that when He appears, we will be like Him” (1 John 3:2). James instructed us, “Be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord” (James 5:7). He went on to say, “The Judge is standing right at the door” (James 5:9). Paul spoke of “the day of Christ Jesus,” referring to His return (Phil. 1:6). Paul talked about those “who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord” (1 Thess. 4:15). He also tells us, “Wait for His (God’s) Son from heaven” (1 Thess. 1:10). The angel told the apostles, “This Jesus… will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11). Truly, truly, Jesus Christ is coming back to this earth, and much sooner than most people think.
How is Christ coming back? Jesus is not coming back meekly or quietly like a lamb, but like a lion, with power and glory – “They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory” (Matt. 24:30). To unbelievers, Jesus is coming back suddenly and surprisingly – “The day of the Lord will come just like a thief… destruction will come upon them suddenly…” (1 Thess. 5:2-3). To all people, Jesus will come back visibly, not secretly – “Behold, He is coming with the clouds and every eye will see Him” (Rev. 1:7). “Just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be” (Matt. 24:27). Christ’s coming will be announced – “The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God…” 1 Thess. 4:16-17
When is Christ coming back? Heb. 10:37 tells us that it won’t be long from now, “For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay.” Rom. 10:11-12 says that “Salvation is nearer to us than when we first believed. The night is almost gone, and the day is near.” In answer to the disciples’ question, “When will these things happen, and what is the sign of your coming?” (Matt. 24:3), Christ gave them numerous signs that must occur before His return – birth pains (vss. 5-8), false prophets (vs. 11), increasing lawlessness (vs. 12), preaching the gospel to the world (vs. 14), the abomination of desolation (Antichrist – vs. 15), great tribulation (vss. 9, 21), and heavenly signs (vs. 29). End-time Christians who are waiting and watching will see that Christ’s coming is drawing near. In other words, you can know the general time of Christ’s return, but you cannot know the exact time, “For of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son of Man, but the Father alone” (Matt. 24:36). Encourage one another “as you see the day drawing near.” Heb. 10:25
Why is Christ coming back? What is His purpose in returning to earth? Here are the reasons: 1. To rapture the church – “We who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” 1 Thess. 4:17, Matt. 24:31 2.To give us relief from tribulation – “… to give relief to you who are afflicted and to us as well when the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven.” 2 Thess. 1:7; Matt. 24:21-22, 29-31 3. To deliver us from God’s wrath – “… to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, that is, Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath to come.” 1 Thess. 1:10, Rev. 6-9 4. To redeem us from our sinful bodies – “They will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory… your redemption is drawing near.” Luke 21:27-28, Eph. 1:14 5. To glorify the believers – “… in Christ all will be made alive (glorified). But each in His own order: Christ the first fruits, after that those who are Christ’s at His coming…” 1 Cor. 15:22-23 6. To be with us – “we… will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” 1 Thess. 4:17, 5:10 7. To take us home to heaven – “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may also be.” John 14:3, Heb. 12:22-24 8. So believers can see Christ’s glory – “Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory.” John 17:24 9. To judge the world – “He is coming to judge the earth; He will judge the world with righteousness.” Psalm 98:9, 2 Thess. 1:6-10, Rev. 8-9 10. To defeat the Antichrist – “That lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming, that is, the one whose coming is in accord with the activity of Satan.” 2 Thess. 2:8-9, Rev. 19:11-20 11. To save a remnant of Jewish people – “… all Israel will be saved… ‘The Deliverer will come from Zion; He will remove ungodliness from Jacob’… ‘I take away their sins.’” Rom. 11:25-27 12. To begin His reign on earth –“He placed His right foot on the sea and His left on the land… in the days of the voice of the seventh angel.” (Rev. 10:2,7). “… the seventh angel sounded… The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever.” Rev. 11:15, Zech. 14:9 13. To be worshiped by believers – “After these things I looked and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes, peoples, and tongues… clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Salvation to our God who sits on the throne and to the Lamb.’” Rev. 7:9-10, 5:13 14. To give us our inheritance – “… who according to His (God’s) great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance… a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1 Peter 1:4-5, Eph. 1:14 15. To be worshiped by the whole world – “… that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven, and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Phil. 1:10-11
The greatest event taking place in the world in the not-too-distant future is the appearing, the revealing, the coming of Jesus Christ, our Lord, Savior, and King. Might you believe in Him, love Him, tell others about Him, be waiting for Him, be saying to Him, “Come, Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:20), and be praying to the Father, “Thy Kingdom come.” Matt. 6:9
Did you know that God’s future plans for Israel relate to His future plans for you and the church? Many Christians are unaware of the great blessings God has in store for the Jews, and what that means for the church. Today I want to talk about the future of Israel, and how this specifically relates to prophecy, to the church, and to God’s work in the world in these last years leading up to the coming of Jesus Christ, our Lord, Savior, and King.
1) In the Old Testament times God focused on Israel. But since Christ’s 1st coming, God has been focusing on the church, and now, 2000 years later, we are getting close to the end of this age and Christ’s 2nd coming and the rapture of the church. After the rapture, the day of the Lord, and the salvation of a remnant of Jews, the kingdom age will begin and God will greatly bless both Jews and glorified believers (OT saints and the church) with the result that they will be a beautiful witness to the world and a glory to Jesus Christ. Psalms 67, 96, 117
2) Israel is Israel. Israel is not the church, as some wrongly say, and there is nothing in God’s word that says the church has replaced Israel, that the church is now the sole recipient of some or all God’s promises to her. God has very specific and special plans for Israel with regards to her future, and all these plans will be carried out. “The Lord nullifies the counsel of the nations… The counsel of the Lord stands forever… Blessed is the nation (Israel) whose God is the Lord, the people whom He has chosen for His own inheritance.” Psalm 33:10-12, Isaiah 60-62
3) Three key promises were given by God to Israel: a) They will inherit a vast portion of land (Gen. 13:14-17, 15:18-21). b) A large remnant of Jews will be saved at the end of Daniel’s 70th week (Jer. 31:31-34). c) Jesus Christ will reign as Israel’s King during the millennial kingdom. (Ezek. 37:21-23, Zech. 14:9). Indeed, God remembers His promises to the Jewish people and will faithfully fulfill every one of them. “He has remembered His covenant forever.” Psalm 105:8-11
4) The phrase “end-time” comes from Dan. 12:9 – “Go your way, Daniel, for these words are concealed and sealed up until the end time.” Dan. 7-12 contains a great deal of information about God’s plans for Israel in these last days leading up to Christ’s return to become King of the world. (Dan. 7:13-14). That the Jews have returned to their land is God’s signal to the church that we are in the end-times, that He is once again actively working with Israel, that the prophecies contained in Dan. 7-12 are about to be fulfilled, and that Christ will soon return to rapture the church and set up His kingdom on this earth.
5) Luke 21:20-24 must be understood if we are to know how God has been working with the Jews during the church age. We learn that they were punished and scattered all over the world, which began around 70 AD. And they “will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled,” and then Christ will become King of this world. “When you see these things happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near.” Luke 21:31
6) Romans 11 must also be understood if we are to know how God has been working with the Jews during this church age. “God gave them (Jews) a spirit of stupor, eyes to see not and ears to hear not, down to this very day” (vs. 8), and “they (Jews) were broken off for their unbelief” (vs. 20). During this church age, God is not focused on saving Jews, but on saving Gentiles. “By their transgression salvation has come to the Gentiles… and their failure is riches for the Gentiles” (vss. 11-12). But “God has not rejected the people whom He foreknew,” for we read that “a partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fulness of the Gentiles has come in; and so all Israel will be saved… when I take away their sins” (Vss. 25-27). God will save a large number of Jewish people at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. Is. 45:17, Dan. 9:24
7) The Jewish people have been gathering back to their land, the #1 sign that we are in the end-times, and that the times of the Gentiles will soon come to an end. This miraculous return, beginning in the 1880’s, has resulted in close to 6.7 million Jews presently living in Israel (Hosea 3:4-5, Amos 9:14-15). The fulfillment of end-time prophecies and promises for both Jews and Christians is contingent on the Jews being back in their land. For the Antichrist to desolate the new Jewish temple requires that the Jews be back in their land (2 Thess. 2:1-4). For the church to be raptured necessitates that the Jews are living in Israel (Matt. 24:15-31). You cannot overstate this amazing miracle that millions of Jews have returned to Israel, and what it means for them, the church, and God’s eternal purposes.
8) That many New Testament prophecy passages for the Jewish people sit next to prophecy passages for the church means that God wants you to see that His end-times’ work with the Jews is in conjunction, is coinciding with His end-times’ work with the church. God’s present and future work with the Jews should be of utmost interest to all Christians. Knowing how God is working with the Jews helps you understand the timing of His dealings with the church in the years leading up the rapture, and should motivate you to pray, “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth…” (Matt. 6:10). I encourage you to read the following passages that describe God’s end-times’ work with both Jews and Christians. Matt. 24:4-31, Luke 21:7-31, Rom. 11, 2 Thess. 2:1-10, Rev. 7, Rev. 12:13-17
9) A listing of God-planned prophetic events taking place in the years ahead: a) Birth pains will be affecting people in various parts of the world. b) Both Jews and Christians will face increasing persecution. c) A peace treaty between Israel and the coming Antichrist will be signed at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. d) At the midpoint of that 7-year week, the Antichrist will be revealed, and then be recognized by Christians and discerning Jews. e) The rapture of the church will happen sometime during the last half of that 70th week. f) The day of the Lord, the outpouring of God’s wrath upon the earth, will begin after the rapture, occurring during the last part of that 70th week. g) God will save a remnant of Jewish people at the very end of that week. h) Jesus Christ will then begin His 1000-year reign over the entire world.
10) During the millennial kingdom, both Jewish and Gentile believers will be worshiping the Lord (Rom. 15:9-15). Both will inherit the land (Ps. 37:11, Matt. 5:5). Both will be blessed by the Lord (Ps. 67:7, 1 Pet. 1:4). Both will reign with the Lord (Matt. 19:28, Rev. 5:10). Both will be serving the Lord (Ez. 40-48, Matt. 25:20-21). Both will be witnessing for the Lord (Ps. 96:2-3). How encouraging and exciting it will be to see God blessing both Jewish and Gentile believers – “All these (Jewish believers), having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised, because God had provided something better for us (the church), so that apart from us they would not be made perfect.” Hebrews 11:39-40
At this time, with so many problems, difficulties, and conflicts, it may seem like the world is spinning out of control, as if God is ignorant of what is going on, as if God doesn’t care, or as if God is unable to do anything about it. On the contrary, our wise, loving, faithful, powerful, and purposeful God is constantly working, and sovereignly directing all things and all people towards that singular moment when He sends “Jesus, the Christ appointed for you, whom heaven must receive until the period of restoration of all things about which God spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from ancient time” (Acts 3:20, Eph. 1:9-11). It won’t be long before we “see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory” (Luke 21:27). Be encouraged for “your redemption is drawing near” and “the kingdom of God is near” (Luke 21:28, 31). Then we will “tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples. For great is the Lord and greatly to be praised.” Psalm 96:3-4
The single biggest reason we know Jesus Christ is coming soon is that the Jewish people have been gathering back to their land, just as God promised over 2500 years ago. That the Jews have been returning to their land for the past 140 years is an amazing work of God, one of the greatest modern-day miracles, and the strongest evidence we have that we are now living in the end-times. As Christians we need to know this, for the rapture of the church is the 1st thing to occur at Christ’s coming.
The story of the Jewish people began about 4000 years ago with Abraham, the father of the Jews. The birth of the nation of Israel took place in Egypt where, in a 430-year time span, they grew from 75 people to about 2 million. Led by Moses, they escaped that devilish Pharaoh, took a forty-year journey through the desert, and with Joshua as their leader entered the land of Canaan. Not only had God promised them this land (Gen. 13:14-15), but also salvation (Jer. 31:31-34), and a King (2 Sam. 7:12-16). Sadly, for most of the next 800 years, the nation failed to fear and love their Maker, “the living God and everlasting King” (Jer. 10:10) and therefore, kept sinning against Him. During that time, God exhibited great patience, but finally He punished them, with many dying of famine and the sword, and others being exiled.
Yet, for their sake and His sake, God promised that a remnant of Jews would return to their land in 70 years, which is just what happened (Jer. 25:12). Led by Ezra, Nehemiah, and others, thousands of Jewish people came back to Israel and again began to worship the one true God. But for many it was short lived, for it did not take long before their faith faded, and their worship turned into a worthless, ritualistic religion. Yet God was faithful, and kept His most important promise (Micah 5:2), for He sent His Son to earth to be the Savior – “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son…” John 3:16
For 33 years, Jesus Christ, the Son of Man, lived a perfect life, loving, teaching, and healing tens of thousands. Finally, He died on a cross to satisfy His Father’s wrath and pay for people’s sins, and was then raised from the dead. After commissioning His apostles to go and make disciples, He ascended into heaven (Matt. 28:19-20). But most Jews were proud and rejected Jesus, refusing to repent of their sins and believe in Him as their Lord and Savior. For their grievous sin, God rejected them and again drove them out of their land. Luke 19:41-44
Luke 21:20-24 summarizes how God punished them: “When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then recognize that her desolation is near… there will be great distress upon the land and wrath to this people… they will fall by the edge of the sword, and will be led captive into all the nations; and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot…” History soberly gives us many distressing stories of the Jews being greatly persecuted throughout the centuries. But Luke tells us that this would be come to an end, for we read “… until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.”
God was determined to fulfill His promises to His people about receiving land, a King, and salvation. In fact, He had already told them He would gather them again. Jer. 32:37, Ezek. 36:24-28, Hosea 3:4-5, Amos 9:14-15, Micah 4:6-7, Zech. 8:7-8, Zeph. 3:14-20 all prophesy the gathering of the Jewish people back to their land so that God’s plans for them would be fulfilled. For those who say this gathering took place after the Babylonian captivity, you need only know that His promises to them about the land, the King, and salvation were not all fulfilled at that time. Not only that, but Isaiah 11:11 tells us, “The Lord will again recover the second time with His hand the remnant of His people… will gather the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth.”
The prophecy that best sums up God’s regathering plans for the Jews is Jer. 31:10 – “Hear the word of the Lord, O nations, and declare in the coastlands afar off, and say, ‘He who scattered Israel will gather him and keep him as a shepherd keeps His flock.’” Three keys words stand out – “scattered”, “gather”, and “keep.” The scattering began around 70 AD and continued up to 1880. Since then, God has been gathering them back to their land so that there are now close to 6.7 million Jews in Israel. In our lifetimes, we have truly been witnessing one of God’s greatest miracles. What is also astounding is that the Jewish people have been returning to their land with their identity, language, religion, and culture still intact. The “keep” part of Jer. 31:10, that the Lord will “keep him as a shepherd keeps His flock,” is both a physical and spiritual keeping and has not yet taken place, but it will, and it won’t be long from now. And it relates to the salvation of a remnant of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. Dan. 9:24
This brings us to the New Testament and to prophecy passages for the Jews, and right away you see that God placed them next to prophecy passages for the church. You cannot overstate the importance of these prophecies for the Jews and the Christians sitting next to each other in the text. God wants Christians to see that His end-time’s work with the church is in conjunction with His end-times’ work with the Jews, that His last-days’ work with the Jews coincides with the final years of the church age.
What specifically do we learn? From Matt. 24:9-22, we read about the abomination of desolation in Jerusalem, and great tribulation afflicting both Jews and Christians. From Luke 21:24-32, we see that the times of the Gentiles will come to an end, that the church will be redeemed (raptured), and that Jesus will set up His kingdom for the Jews and the church. From 2 Thess. 2:1-4, we learn that the wicked Antichrist will proudly declare himself to be God in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, after which Christ returns to gather the church. From Rom. 11 we find out that a remnant of Jews will be grafted in, be saved, this taking place once the fulness of the Gentiles has come in, and once this church age is over (Rom. 11:25-26). From Rev. 7 we discover that 144,000 Jews will be sealed just before the church is raptured. Indeed, God is fulfilling His end-time plans for both Jews and Christians at this time in history, leading to the soon coming of Christ. I hope you realize how extremely blessed you are to be part of what God is now doing on planet earth.
To know how God wants you to respond to this, note the first part of Jer. 31:10: “Hear the word of the Lord, O nations, and declare in the coastlands…” The clear instruction is for the nations, including Christians, to hear this prophetic word, believe it, and declare it to the world. Since this prophecy is now being fulfilled, shouldn’t we excitedly be telling people that God is presently carrying out His plans for the Jews, and this is all leading up to Christ’s second coming for the church and the Jews? Yes, yes, yes!!!
The #1 sign to the church, the signal to all believers everywhere that we are now in the end-times is this single fact that the Jewish people have returned to their land. O Christian, be greatly encouraged and filled with joy, for the Jews are back in their land and the birth pains are taking place, which means Christ is coming soon to rapture the church, pour out His wrath, save a Jewish remnant, and set up His kingdom on earth, a glorious kingdom for both Jewish and Gentile believers. Psalm 37:11, Matthew 5:3
Romans 8:17-39 starts off by stating that we are “heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ,” super-encouraging truths for every Christian. We learn that we will be redeemed and be glorified, that is, be delivered from our sinful body and be given a brand-new one. In addition, we see that this corrupt earth will be set free from sin’s curse and be wonderfully restored. This is our hope and our future, what we ought to be eagerly waiting for, and what will surely and soon take place.
How will this happen? How will we keep going for the Lord during our time on earth, and then get to heaven? We don’t have the power in ourselves to stay strong for the Lord, and in the future somehow transform our bodies so we can then rocket from earth to heaven to be with Jesus. From beginning to end, our salvation is from and for the Lord God Almighty – it’s an awesome and powerful work of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. 2 Cor. 13:14
Romans 8:26-39 explains how this happens, how we will be victorious and glorious Christians. It’s through the Spirit’s sealing, helping, leading, comforting, and by His prayers to the Father on our behalf (Rom. 8:26-27). It’s believing that God is sovereign, that He lovingly, wisely, and continually causes all things to work together for good (Rom. 8:28). “… having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will.” Eph. 1:11
It’s also knowing that God will faithfully and forever carry out His plans for us (Rom. 8:29-30). In eternity past He foreknew us, chose us, and predestined us, planning out all the details of our lives so we would be eternally saved – “… having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation” (Acts 17:26, Ps. 139:16). At the right time, He caused us to physically be born on this earth, and then He called us, working in our lives so as to lead us to Himself. At the right time God caused us to be born again, forgiving us and giving us His perfect righteousness. He still needs to glorify us, that is, complete our salvation by conforming us to the image of His Son. And never forget that God is God, and what He desires to do, He will do. Do not doubt Him in this – do not question His ability to fully carry out His purposes and plans for your life here on earth. “I am confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil. 1:6, 1 Cor. 1:8-9
To strengthen this point, Paul emphatically states a “no” answer question, “If God is for us, who is against us?” (Rom. 8:31-34). These powerful words, that the living God is for you, mean that no one can truly be against you. God showed you His amazing, out-of-this-world love by sending His Son to die for you, pay for your sins, and be raised again. Now this isn’t some sentimental love God has for you – what Christ did for you is the rock-solid truth, is factual and foundational to His plan to forever save you from your sins, and is truly the single greatest demonstration of His love (Rom. 5:8). Since God did this for you, be confident that He will keep doing whatever it takes to make sure you are successful and safe on earth, and will then be gloriously transformed so you can be with Him in heaven (Phil. 3:20-21). An example of God’s present work is that Jesus Himself is now praying for you, “who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.” Heb. 7:25
Be assured that no angel, no devil, no demon, not you or anyone else, can change or thwart God’s personal and eternal plans for you. How can anyone condemn you for any unrighteous thought, word, or deed when Christ has already died for you and dealt with all your sins? Always remember that you have been perfectly and forever justified by Christ, and that you are now, and will be, continually and eternally loved by God. Psalm 103:8-17
As much as anything, God wants you to be 100% convinced that nothing will ever stop Him from carrying out all His plans for you, and therefore, nothing will ever stop Him from loving you. “Who will separate us from the love of God?” (Rom. 8:35-37). This question hits at the heart of God’s motivation to save you from your sins, which is His unconditional and unfailing love for you. “I have loved you with an everlasting love” (Jer. 31:3). And when tough times come your way, remember the gentle and compassionate love that God has for you. (Matt. 11:28-29). “I have come to know and have believed the love that God has for me.” 1 John 4:16
Paul then uses some very strong words to describe the trials you may experience as a Christian – tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, and sword. God gives you these worst case scenarios so that if any of them happen, you still know that He loves you and will get you through the devilish darkness of this evil age and make sure you make it all the way to heaven so you can be with Jesus. “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever.” 2 Tim. 4:18
To further convince you that nothing can separate you from God’s love, Paul gives a more comprehensive list, specifically mentioning death, life, angels, principalities, powers, things related to the past, present or future, things geographically, or any created thing. (Rom. 8:38-39). As a Christian, you may be afraid of someone or something; you may doubt whether you are really saved; you may think some grievous sin will keep you away from Jesus and out of heaven; you may feel like the devil is too strong for you; you may feel like God has left you; or you may be so discouraged by circumstances that you think God doesn’t love you anymore. A great many Christians have been afflicted and harmfully affected by thoughts like these. That’s why it’s imperative to hang onto these truths from Rom. 8:17-39, for you will need them, especially when times are much harder than they are now. Psalm 13, Matt. 24:4-14
That we live in the end-times means life will grow increasingly difficult, for there will be birth pains, false teachers, a wicked Antichrist, betrayal, and great persecution. Always remember that you are a child of God, that you have hope, that the Spirit is praying for you, that your Father’s plans for you will be fulfilled, that Jesus died and rose again for you and is also praying for you, and that God Himself really loves you. “Keep yourselves in the love of God… to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.” Jude 24-25
P.S. What a joy to know that God is faithfully working in our lives, that He is control, that His plans for our lives will be carried out, and that in the future we will be glorified, and greatly glorify God. Here are two encouraging posts to read – “God Is In Charge of Everything,” and “God Will Keep You Strong to the End.”
1. What is the coming kingdom age? In the near future, after this present evil age comes to an end, there will be a good age. This age will last exactly 1000 years, during which time there will be one king ruling the entire world. Jer. 10:10a, Gal. 1:4, Rev. 20:3-7
2. Who will be the king during this kingdom age? Jesus Christ will be the King, the King of kings. “His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace” (Isaiah 9:6-7). Jesus will be holy, righteous, loving, merciful, good, and wise, a most excellent and perfect King. Psalm 67, Zech. 14:9, Rev. 19:16
3. What will Jesus Christ be doing during the kingdom age? He will be reigning over all the nations of the world. He will be perfectly leading, guiding, judging, and governing, resulting in awesome deeds of righteousness, abundant blessings, soul-satisfying goodness, and peace to those who live on this earth. Psalms 47:7-8, 65, 72; Dan. 7:14
4. When does the kingdom age start? The millennial kingdom age will begin at the sounding of the seventh trumpet, which happens soon after the end of Daniel’s 70th week. Rev. 10:7, Rev. 11:15
5. What is the general nature of this age? The earth will be full of the glory of the Lord. “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of hosts, the whole earth is full of His glory” (Is. 6:3). Compared to our present evil age, it will be a good, holy, and peaceful age. It will be a time when Jesus Christ is feared and worshiped by all who live on the earth. Ps. 72:18-19, Hab. 2:14, Gal. 1:4, Phil. 2:9-11
6. What are some of Christ’s objectives during this age? During Christ’s reign, He will abolish all rule, authority, and power, and He will defeat death, the last of His enemies. His ultimate goal is to be worshiped so that His Father is glorified. John 17:4-5, 1 Cor. 15:25, Phil. 2:9-11
7. What will the devil do during this time? Nothing. The devil will be chained up for the entirety of this 1000-year period. At the end of this time, the devil will be released, and then deceive the nations, gathering them together to fight against Christ. But Christ will quickly and easily defeat the devil, and then cast him into the lake of fire, where he will be severely and eternally tormented and punished. 1 Cor. 15:25-28, Rev. 14:9-11, Rev. 20:7-9
8. What will Old Testament and church age believers be doing during this age? First, know that they will have been glorified, will possess immortal, powerful, and spiritual bodies. Therefore, they will be able to perfectly worship Jesus Christ, reign with Him, and serve Him, using their talents to carry out His work on earth. They will also spend time with Christ and other believers, having intimate fellowship with them. Psalm 145:1-2, Luke 19:16-17, 1 Cor. 15:40-42, 1 Thess. 4:13-15
9. What will the newly saved Jewish people be doing during this kingdom age? A remnant of Jewish people, those saved at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, will be worshiping Christ, learning from Him, and having fellowshipping with Him. Many of the Jews will be serving Him by carrying out various duties that specifically relate to Jerusalem, Israel, and the new temple. Psalms 65:1-4, 96; Isaiah 2:1-5, 12; Ezekiel 40-48; Romans 8:25-26
10. How will the Jewish people be blessed? They will be blessed in physical, spiritual, societal, and relational ways, and therefore, be a wonderful witness to unbelievers, with the result that God and Christ will be greatly feared and glorified all over the world. Gen. 12:1-3, Psalm 67, Psalm 98:1-3, Psalm 117, Isaiah 4:2-6, Isaiah 12
11. What do we understand about the unbelievers during this time? Though the devil is chained and there is no world system, the unsaved will still be sinning, proving that a person’s core problem is the evil in his own heart. Yet, many unbelievers will travel to Jerusalem to learn from Jesus Christ, bring Him gifts, and worship Him. Psalms 68:29, 98:1-3; Isaiah 2:1-3; Isaiah 12
12. Will people be getting saved during the millennial kingdom? Yes, an enormous number of people will be affected by the lives of the Jews during this age and be saved by Jesus Christ. Psalm 67:1-2 says, “God be gracious to us, and cause His face to shine upon us, that Your way may be known on the earth, Your salvation among all nations.” Psalm 96:2 instructs us, “Proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day.” Psalm 98:2-3 tells us, “All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.”
13. Will there be a Jewish temple during the millennial kingdom? Yes, there will be a Jewish temple, and it will be in Jerusalem. As Christians, we have the Lord’s supper to remind us what Christ did for us, and during the kingdom age the Jews will offer memorial sacrifices, not to take away sin, for Christ’s death already did that. These sacrifices will remind them that Christ the King is also Christ the Savior, “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” John 1:29, Ezek. 40-48
14. What will the physical earth be like? The earth will be in a restored and renovated condition, and that’s because the curse of sin will be removed. Magnificent and most beautiful this creation will be, for the stars, birds, fish, animals, plants, etc., will be set free from their slavery to corruption. And yes, even the animals will be at peace with one another. Psalm 98:7-8, Isaiah 65:25, Acts 3:21, Romans 8:23-25
15. What happens to unbelievers at the end of this kingdom age? The devil will be thrown into the lake of fire. Then Jesus Christ, sitting on His great white throne, will judge all unbelievers, and then cast them into the lake of fire, “the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels”, a place where there will be “eternal punishment,” and “weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Matt. 24:51, 25:41, 46; Rev. 20:7-15
16. What will happen at the conclusion of this kingdom age? Jesus Christ will hand “over the kingdom to the God and Father… then the Son Himself also will be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Himself, so that God may be God in all” (1 Cor. 15:24, 28). That Jesus humbles Himself before His Father shows His love for His Father, and their perfect unity. Then “the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up” (2 Pet. 3:10). “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first earth passed away.” Rev. 21:1-7
17. Will Jesus Christ reign forever and ever? Yes, Jesus Christ will reign forever and ever! “I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever and ever” (2 Sam. 7:12-13). “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever” (Psalm 45:6). “Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom” (Psalm 145:13). Jesus Christ will be perfectly and powerfully reigning over the world during the millennial kingdom, and then He and His Father will be reigning together forever and ever.
18. What should be one of our prayers at this time? “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth, as it is in heaven.” (Matt. 6:9-10). We should have hope, be looking forward to the next age when we will be with Christ and reign with Him over this world, but we should also be praying and asking Our Father to send His Son to rapture the church, pour out His wrath, and then set up His kingdom. “Come, Lord Jesus.”
19. Why does God want there to be a 1000-year kingdom age? God wants this age to be a glorious display of His Son in action. We live in an evil age with imperfect people ruling this world, with the result that there are all these problems, all this corruption, and all this grief and sadness. But God wants us to see Jesus Christ executing perfect justice, caring for the poor, blessing the earth, and bringing peace. Not only that, but He wants us to be reigning with Christ, helping Him carry out His purposes. What a joy to be able to reign with Christ during the 1000-year kingdom age and see His glory and goodness on display all over the world. Rev. 5:10, 20:6
20. Why do I spend time thinking about the millennial kingdom? Because it motivates me to keep living for the Lord, and to finish the work He has given me to do. I must say that I am super excited about this kingdom age. I get tired of continually struggling with the world, the flesh, and the devil. I get so tired of imperfect leaders and corrupt governments. And I get very tired of seeing and hearing about all the crime, hate, murder, conflict, and war. I really want to see God’s promises and plans fulfilled for all His people (Psalm 33:10-12). I can’t wait to be glorified, to be with Jesus, and be able to perfectly worship and serve Him during this new kingdom age. And I am really looking forward to spending quality time with friends I knew on earth. “Sing praises to our King, sing praises. For God is the King of all the earth.” Psalm 47
1) Who is the Antichrist? The Antichrist is described as the little horn, the man of lawlessness, the man of destruction, and the beast – and he will be the devil’s man on earth. That we are now in the end-times means it won’t be long before this most wicked man will be ruling this world and carrying out the work of the devil. Dan. 7:8; 2 Thess. 2:3; Rev. 13:3-8
2) What will the Antichrist be like? He will be arrogant, the proudest man on earth. He will be very intelligent. He will be a smooth talker, a charismatic man, a great deceiver, making people think he is God when, in fact, he is doing the work of the devil. He will be more influential than any other person on earth. He will have the utmost hatred for God and His people. He will be wholly opposed to God’s word, and all that is good, right, and true. He will be the most lawless and evil man this world has ever seen. Dan. 8:23-25, Dan. 9:32, 36, Rev. 13:5-8
3) Where is the Antichrist from? Many believe the Antichrist will be from either Syria or Iraq. Let me explain why people say this. From Dan. 8:8-26 and Dan. 11:29-45 we learn about Antiochus Epiphanes, a devilish leader who ruled the Seleucid Empire from 175-164 BC. His most evil act took place when he defiled the temple in Jerusalem, which is just what the coming Antichrist will do (Dan. 9:27, Matt. 24:15, 2 Thess. 2:4). Therefore, we consider Antiochus to be a type or figure of the coming Antichrist. The reason we believe the Antichrist will be from present-day Syria or Iraq is because that was the territory Antiochus ruled.
4) When will the Antichrist be revealed? When will Christians clearly know who he is? Some may suspect he is the Antichrist at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week when he makes a treaty with Israel, but for sure we will know he is Satan’s man when he desecrates the temple at the midpoint, the 3½ year mark of that week. “In the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.” Dan. 9:27, Matt. 24:15, 2 Thess. 2:1-4
5) Are there other antichrists? There have been many antichrists throughout the church age, people who openly deny God and Jesus Christ, and their work on earth. John tells us, “even now many antichrists have appeared”, but he also says, “you have heard that antichrist is coming.” (1 John 2:18, 22-25; 1 John 4:3). The Antichrist to come will be the most powerful and evil antichrist in history. He may be alive on earth at this time, and if he is, he is not yet openly opposing God and Christ, but he will be soon. Dan. 8:23-25, 2 Thess. 2:3-10, Rev. 13:4-7
6) Where does the Antichrist get his authority? The Antichrist gets his authority and power from the devil himself. “They worshiped the dragon (devil) because he gave his authority to the beast, and they worshiped the beast” (Rev. 13:4). Yet it is God who sovereignly permits the devil and, therefore, the Antichrist to carry out their evil deeds. Dan. 2:21, Rev. 17:17
7) What is the purpose of the Antichrist? The Antichrist’s purpose is understood by knowing that the prefix “anti” means “against” or “in place of”. The Antichrist is against God, hates Him with a passion, and desires to take His place and become ruler of the world. Most of all, he wants to be worshiped as God, which will happen, but only for a short time. “… the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, displaying himself as being God.” 2 Thess. 2:3-4
8) What will the Antichrist do in the end-times? The Antichrist will be the key player in getting Israel to sign a covenant (treaty) with other nations (Dan. 9:27). He will lead a coalition of ten nations, which is the power base by which he will rule the world (Dan. 7:20). He will desecrate the temple in Jerusalem, setting himself up to be God (Matt. 24:15, 2 Thess. 2:3-4). He will be boasting about himself and blaspheming God (Rev. 13:5-6). He will persecute both Jews and Christians. He will fight against God by fighting against His people who live on earth. “He persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male child… It was also given to him to make war with the saints.” (Rev. 12:13-17, Rev. 13:7). The Antichrist, working with the other beast, will cause unbelievers to take his mark and worship his image. Rev. 13:11-17
9) Is God sovereign over the Antichrist? Yes, God is sovereign over the Antichrist and his ungodly work on earth. This vile and devilish man is like a dog on a leash, and can only do what God wants and allows him to do. God’s sovereignty over the Antichrist and his activities will result in God’s plans being fulfilled, and great glory being given to Him. Prov. 21:1, Rom. 8:28-29, Eph. 1:9-11, Rev 17:17
10) Will Christians be on earth when the Antichrist is revealed? Yes, Christians will be on the earth at that time. At the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, the Antichrist will be revealed and begin persecuting the church. This persecution, part of great tribulation, will be cut short, and then the church will be raptured and gathered to Christ. Matt. 24:21-31, 2 Thess. 1:5-10
11) What is the mark of the beast? It is a mark on the hand or forehead that the Antichrist causes unbelievers to take during the last half of Daniel’s 70th week. It is one of the primary ways by which the Antichrist will control them, for only those who take the mark will be able to do business, to openly buy or sell during this time. Those people who receive the mark will be eternally damned and punished, and deservedly so. Luke 21:28-31; Rev. 13:16-17, 14:9-11
12) Can a person take the mark of the beast and still get saved? Once a person takes the mark of the beast, he cannot be saved. That person who takes the mark is an unbeliever and has sealed his destiny, and will be damned, doomed, and forever be “tormented with fire and brimstone.” Rev. 14:9-11
13) Can a Christian take the mark of the beast? No. A Christian cannot receive the mark of the beast, and then be damned to hell. Once a person is saved, he is sealed by the Spirit, is eternally secure in Christ, cannot lose his salvation, and will forever be with Him. Eph. 1:14, 4:30
14) Will all non-Christians living during the Great Tribulation take the mark of the beast? No, some of them will not take the mark of the beast, and many of those who do not take the mark will get saved and then, at the coming of Christ, be raptured and glorified. Rev. 7:9-14
15) What is the image of the beast? This word image, from the Greek word “icon”, is a picture or symbol of the Antichrist that unbelievers are to worship in the end times. It is the primary means by which the devil, working through the false prophet, will force people to worship the Antichrist. Those people who do not bow to this image will be pursued by the armies of the Antichrist so as to be persecuted and killed. Luke 21:12-19, Rev. 13:14-15
16) What will happen in the world before the Antichrist is revealed and comes to power? – The world will experience “birth pains” in various places. There will be wars, famines, earthquakes, plagues, and economic distress. Matt. 24:4-9, Luke 21:8-11, Rev. 6:1-8 – The United States will decline in power, and no longer be the world’s leading superpower. – We will see a growing desire for globalism, economically, politically, societally, and militarily. – There will be a growing desire among the unsaved for someone to solve the world’s problems and bring peace. – Nations will be realigned, specifically those which become part of the Antichrist’s kingdom. – It will be a time like the days of Noah, with ever increasing sin and evil. Matt. 24:12, 37-38 – The one becoming the Antichrist will make a firm covenant with Israel and other nations at the very beginning of Daniel’s 70th week. Dan. 9:27 – The Jews and the Christians will face growing hostility and persecution. Luke 21:12-24 – The sophisticated technology that the Antichrist needs to surveil people and carry out his devilish plans will be fully developed and ready to use. Rev. 13:14-17
17) How will the Antichrist control the world during the end times?Revelation 13 – Because of the Antichrist’s apparent resurrection, and the amazing miracles the other beast performs on his behalf, he will be famous and greatly loved, and be looked to as a world leader. – He will have the authority and power of the devil, of Satan himself. – He will be a skilled speaker, one who is very deceptive and persuasive. – He will rule militarily over the world with great might and power. – He will rule economically by requiring everyone to take the mark of the beast. – He will rule spiritually by forcing people to worship his image, the “image of the beast”.
18) How long will the Antichrist be in power? Rev. 13:5 says that “authority to act for forty-two months was given to him.” This means the Antichrist will be in power from the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, when he is revealed, to the end of that week. During those forty-two months, on a day we do not know, Christ will return to rapture the Christians, and then pour out His wrath on the earth (the Trumpet judgments – Rev. 8-9). The Antichrist’s ability to rule will be diminished during this time when God’s wrath is being poured out.
19) When will the Antichrist be defeated? Shortly after Daniel’s 70th week is over, the Antichrist, along with the false prophet, will be defeated and captured during the battle of Armageddon. “That lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming” (2 Thess. 2:8). “These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire.” Rev. 19:19-20
20) How should you live when the Antichrist is ruling the world? You are not to be afraid of the Antichrist, for you are not to fear man but God (Luke 12:4-5). Persevere, knowing that Jesus is with you, and that the Antichrist will be here for only a short time. (Psalm 37, Matt. 28:20). Have faith and hope, knowing that God is working all things together for good, and has a great future in store for you (Rom. 8:28-29). Remember God’s promise, that “greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). Finally, don’t forget that “they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death.” Rev. 12:11
P.S. Isn’t it amazing how much information God has given us about this most evil man who will soon be ruling over this world? You need to know these things, and know your God, display strength and take action (Dan. 11:32). I encourage you to read my article on the Antichrist – “The Coming of the Antichrist, the Devil’s Man on Earth.”
