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Christ's Kingdom and the End Times

Category: End-times (Page 6 of 9)

Blog posts about the end times.

Questions and Answers About Christ’s 2nd Coming

October 16, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #192 ~

1) What is the next major event to take place in this world? The coming of our Savior and King, Jesus Christ, to this earth.

2) What is the coming of Christ? The word coming is a noun that means both arrival and consequent presence. Christ’s coming is not an instantaneous event, but a period of time during which Christ’s presence and working on earth is clearly evident. It begins after the coming of the Antichrist, and after the end of this age. Matt. 24:15-31, 2 Thess. 2:1-9

3) Why is Jesus Christ coming back to earth? Christ is coming back to rapture the Christians, pour out His wrath, save a remnant of Jews, begin His 1000-year reign, fulfill His promises to believers, and be worshiped. Matt. 24:31, Rom. 11:26, Phil. 2:9-11, Rev. 8-9, Rev. 11:15

4) How is Jesus Christ coming back? He is coming back suddenly, “just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes even to the west” (Matt. 24:27). He is coming back visibly, for “they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud” (Luke 21:27). He is coming back audibly, “with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God” (1 Thess. 4:16). He is coming back as a King, “with power and great glory.” Matt. 24:30, Zech. 14:9

5) What is the end-times? The end-times are the final years, the last stage of this church age, a long period of time during which many prophesied events will be taking place, making it increasingly clear that Christ’s return is getting closer and closer. Ezek. 36-37; Dan. 12:4, 9; Matt. 24:4-34; Heb. 10:24-25; 1 Peter 1:5

6) How do we know we are in the end-times? The main reason we know we are in the end-times is because a great number of Jewish people have come back to their homeland, to Israel, as prophesied in Is. 11:11, Jer. 32:37, and Ezek. 36-37. Since the 1880’s, the Jews have steadily been returning to their land, resulting in Israel becoming a nation in 1948. God’s work with the Jews in the end-times is in conjunction with His work with the church. Matt. 24:4-26, Rev. 7

7) What is Daniel’s 70th week? It is a seven-year time period described in Dan. 9:24-27 and Rev. 12-13, 17. At the very beginning of this period the Antichrist makes a treaty with Israel. At its midpoint, the 3½ year mark, the Antichrist is revealed and puts an end to temple sacrifice. At the end of this 70th week, a remnant of Jews are saved. Rom. 11:25-26

8) When is Jesus Christ coming back? We do not know the exact time Christ is returning, but we do know the general time, that it will happen sometime during the 2nd half of Daniel’s 70th week, after the coming of the Antichrist, but before God pours out His wrath on this evil world. Many prophesied signs and events will be occurring during this time, enabling us to see that His coming is drawing near. Matt. 24:4-14, Matt. 24:32-24, 2 Thess. 2:8-9, Heb. 10:25

9) Are there two separate comings of Christ? No, there is only one second coming of Christ. This word coming is used in the singular when referring to Christ’s return, which means there will not, as many mistakenly suppose, be a coming of Christ to rapture the Christians on earth at the start of the 70th week, and another coming for the salvation of the Jews at the end of this week. There is only one coming of Christ, beginning sometime during the 2nd half of Daniel’s 70th week, at which time the rapture, the Day of the Lord, and the salvation of a large remnant of Jewish people will occur.

10) Is there a secret coming of Christ for the Christians? There is no place in the Bible that states there is a secret coming of Christ. Many verses tell us that Christ will appear or be revealed, which means that His return will a visible return, and that it will not be a secret coming only for Christians. Matt. 24:30, 2 Tim. 4:1-2, 1 Peter 1:13, 1 John 2:28

11) What is the rapture? The rapture is the culmination and climax of this church age. At the end of this age, Christ will come on the clouds of the sky and suddenly, quickly, and safely take the Christians who are on the earth to be with Himself. At the rapture, all believers, those who have already died and those still on the earth, will be given new immortal bodies. The rapture, the first event to occur at Christ’s coming, takes place during the 2nd half of Daniel’s 70th week, after great tribulation, but before the Day of the Lord. 1 Thess. 4:17, 2 Thess. 2:1-3

12) Who gets raptured? Only true Christians will be raptured. A great multitude of believers will stand firm, survive great tribulation, be alive on the earth at the end of the age, and then be raptured. Matt. 24:13, Eph. 6:10-13, 1 Thess. 4:15-17, Rev. 7:9-14

13) What does redemption mean? In a spiritual sense, it speaks of those who are saved, who are spiritually delivered from sin and are no longer its slaves (Eph. 1:7, Col. 1:13). In a physical sense, it refers to believers being delivered from their fleshly body and from this evil word, which happens when Christians are raptured from the earth. Eph. 1:14, 4:30; Rom. 8:23

14) Who are the elect in Matthew 24:22? The elect refers to the Christians who are raptured during the 2nd half of Daniel’s 70th week, and the Jewish people who are saved at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. Dan. 9:24-27, Matt. 24:9, Rev. 7

15) Will Christians be living on earth when the Antichrist comes to power? Yes, Christians will be alive on earth when the Antichrist is here. The Antichrist will be revealed and come to power at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. Matt. 24:9-15, 2 Thess. 2:8-9, Rev. 13

16) What is the great tribulation? It refers to the great distress and persecution that affects both Jews and Christians in the end-times. This persecution is not God’s wrath but Satan’s wrath. Directed by the Antichrist, it starts at the midpoint of the 70th week but it is cut short just before Christ comes from heaven to rapture the Christians. Matt. 24:9-22, Rev. 13:7

17) What age are we living in? We are now living in an evil age, an age that began thousands of years ago with the sin of Adam (Gen. 3:1-7). Satan is the ruler of this evil age, though he is still under God’s sovereign control. Gal. 1:4, 1 John 5:19

18) When will this evil age end? We know this age has come to an end when we see great signs in the heavens, when “the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” Matt. 24:29

19) What will be happening in the end-times, in the years leading up to the end of this age? There will be birth pains (earthquakes, wars, famines, and plagues – Matt. 24:4-8). There will be a peace treaty between Israel and the Antichrist (Dan. 9:27). A Jewish temple will be built in Jerusalem (2 Thess. 2:4). A 10-nation evil kingdom will be formed (Dan. 7:19-24). There will be a great apostasy (2 Thess. 2:3) The Antichrist will arise and rule over the world. (Rev. 13). The Jewish temple will be desolated by the Antichrist (Matt. 24:15). Great tribulation and persecution will affect both Christians and Jews (Matt. 24:9, 21). The gospel will be preached to all the nations (Matt. 24:14). There will be great signs in the heavens. Matt. 24:29

20) How should Christians live during the end-times?
– We should love God and love one another. Deut. 13:3-4, Mark 12:30-31
– We should share the gospel with the lost. Matt. 24:14, 28:19-20   
– We should have faith, praying and trusting that God will lead us and take care of us. Luke 18:8
– We should have hope and be looking forward to Christ’s return. 1 Peter 1:13
– We should be sober, and be putting on faith, hope and love. 1 Thess. 5:8
– We should live holy and godly lives. 2 Peter 3:11-13
– We should be wise in how we live. Dan. 11:33, Rev. 13:18
– We should be thankful that we are able to live for Christ in the end-times. 1 Thess. 5:18
– We should encourage one another day after day. Heb. 10:24-25        
– We should persevere to the end of this age. Matt. 24:13, 1 Thess. 4:15, Rev. 14:12
– We should be patient and wait for the coming of the Lord. James 5:7-11
– We need to know our God, display strength, and take action. Dan. 11:32

P.S. What a blessing that God gives us answers to questions we may have about Christ’s coming and the end times. Next week I plan to give answers to questions about the Antichrist. In the meantime, here are two posts to read – “That Evil Antichrist and His Short Rule on Earth” and “Reasons for the Rise and Rule of the Antichrist.”

End-Time Lessons from 1st Thessalonians

September 18, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #188 ~

Two questions come to mind when I think about the end-times – what’s going to happen, and how are we to live. 1 Thessalonians answers both these questions, for the truths of this epistle are given in the context of Christ’s 2nd coming. Written in the 1st century, this epistle is instructive to Christians during the entire church age, but it’s especially important for those living in the 21st century. That’s because we now live in the end-times which means Jesus Christ will soon return to rapture the church. As you go over these lessons from 1 Thessalonians, think of how they apply to you at this time, but also if you happen to be alive during Daniel’s 70th week, in those last few difficult years before the coming of Christ.

1. Be filled with God’s grace (1 Thess. 1:1, 5:28). Every day of your life on earth you need grace, that Spirit-given ability and strength to be and do all that God wants. You need God’s grace in every situation, every relationship, and every trial. You need His grace to love others, to work at a job, to share the gospel, to serve the saints, to suffer for the Lord, and to endure to the end – and God will give you all the grace you need. 2 Cor. 9:8, Heb. 4:16, James 4:6

2. Share the gospel (1 Thess. 1:4-7). The gospel message, that everlasting truth of God’s mercy and love, that Christ died and rose again to pay for all your sins, must be fixed in your mind and heart, for it is a spiritual spring bringing forth living water, enabling you to live fully for Him. As you are transformed by the power of the Spirit, you will be a witness for Christ to the world around you, even in times of tribulation. Matt. 24:9-14, 28:19-20

3. Work for God (1 Thess. 1:9, 4:11-12). Don’t be lazy, but use the abilities God has given you to meet your needs and help meet the needs of others. As a member of the church, you have a special gift that you are to employ in serving one another, and in carrying out God’s plans on earth. He has work for you to do, whether it relates to a secular job, doing your part in the church, sharing the gospel, or just praying. “Do business with this until I come back.” Luke 19:13, Eph. 2:10, 1 Peter 4:10-11

4. Wait for Jesus. Hope is an essential ingredient for spiritual growth, and perseverance, especially in the end-times. What is hope? It’s looking forward to the future blessings God has in store for you. Four aspects of your hope are described in this epistle: being with Jesus (1 Thess. 1:9, 4:17), being with loved ones who are Christians (1 Thess. 2:19-20, 4:13-17), being delivered from wrath (1 Thess. 5:8-9), and being glorified (1 Thess. 5:23-24).

5. Learn from believers (1 Thess. 2:1-14, 5:12-13, 5:25). God has lovingly and sovereignly placed Christians in your life so as to help you “walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.” You can’t make it on your own! You need to learn from the words and examples of others, in areas of love, faith, holiness, gentleness, and suffering. Don’t forget to show your appreciation to those who are leading you, and pray for them.

6. Suffer for God (1 Thess. 1:6, 2:14, 3:1-5). Jesus Christ suffered for you, and what a privilege that you can now suffer for Him. Your suffering may relate to trials, conflicts, sharing the word, work situations, persecution, or health issues. In those last few years before Christ’s return, Christians will experience great tribulation, but this will last only a short time, and then your Savior will return to take you to Himself and then on to heaven. Acts 14:2, 2 Thess. 1:5-10

7. Have faith (1 Thess. 2:13, 3:1-10, 5:8). True faith is not trusting your own wisdom or feelings, but trusting the Lord and His word, depending on Him and His promises. To fulfill God’s will and live successfully for Him, you have to have faith, for it’s the means of grace, growth, and godliness. As times get harder, as you go through tribulation, your faith will be tested, but God will help you to keep trusting Him. Luke 18:8, 2 Cor. 5:7, Heb. 11:6

8. Love God and one another (1 Thess. 1:3, 2:7-8, 3:6, 3:12, 4:9-10, 5:8). The divine love God puts in your heart keeps you laboring for Him, enables you to be close to others, and motivates you to share the gospel. This agape love for others is seen when you are giving, forgiving, forbearing, patient, kind, compassionate, and committed. “May the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another.” John 15:17, Col. 3:12-13, 1 John 4:19 

9. Be holy (1 Thess. 4:1-8). “This is the will of God, your sanctification.” Now that you are saved from the penalty of sin, might you be saved from the power of sin, and soon enough, by death or by rapture, you will be saved from the presence of sin. By faith and by grace, fight against the world, the flesh, and the devil. Live holy and wholly for the Lord, and then you will “see” Jesus and be a powerful witness for Him. Heb. 11:24-27, James 4:1-10, 1 Peter 1:16

10. Know the truth of the rapture (1 Thess. 4:14-17 – 5:1-7). God wants you to know some of the details about Christ’s coming, and what happens when Christians are raptured. Here is what you learn: a) The rapture occurs at Christ’s coming. b) Christ will bring with Him the believers who have already died. c) Just before the rapture, you will hear the shout of the Lord, the voice of the archangel, and the sound of the trumpet. d) The dead in Christ, believers who have already died, will be glorified a split second before the raptured saints are glorified. e) The raptured saints will be caught up with the dead in Christ, and together, they will meet the Lord in the air. f) Believers who are alert and sober won’t be surprised by Christ’s coming, but unbelievers will be completely caught off guard. g) The rapture takes place just before the day of the Lord, which is the outpouring of God’s wrath upon the unbelievers. Matt. 24:29-31

11. Rejoice, pray, and give thanks (1 Thess. 5:16-18). Being glad in the Lord, asking for help, and being grateful in all things, proves that you really know Him and His character, and are trusting Him. These godly qualities, essential for your own peace of mind, your witness, and the Lord’s work, should be in your life today and for the rest of your life on earth, and especially when the Antichrist is ruling this world. Phil. 4:4-7, Rom. 5:3, Rev. 13

12. Know that God is faithful. This means you are confident that God is with you and will keep you going for Him, and then at the end of this age, will rescue you from this world, glorify you, bring you to Himself, and then take you to heaven. “Faithful Is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.” 1 Thess. 5:23-24, 1 Cor. 1:8-9, Jude 24-25

I love this epistle, for it tells us how we are to be living for the Lord now, and at all times, and especially if we are on earth during Daniel’s 70th week, those last few years before the coming of Christ and the rapture of the church. If you are not living according to the truths in 1st Thessalonians, you won’t be a strong soldier for Christ – you’ll be weak, sad, selfish, proud, tired, fearful, angry, discouraged, and ineffective. Remember, you are in training so you can be a good servant and soldier for Christ, your Commander in Chief. “Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness… since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Tim. 4:7-8). Might you please the One who enlisted you in His service. 2 Timothy 2:4

P.S. My desire is to do all I can to make sure you are ready to live for the Lord at all times, but especially in the end-times, and in particular, during the time of great tribulation and suffering. Here are two detailed articles that give you lots of good instruction about how to be living for the Lord. “Your Spiritual Service: A Member of the Special Forces” and “Spiritual Survival Food for the Coming Tough Times.”

Becoming Spiritually and Emotionally Strong

May 8, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #169 ~

Our subject is emotions, feelings of fear, joy, anger, peace, sadness, hope, courage, etc. It’s a vitally important subject, one that relates directly to our effectiveness for God. But the emotional part of a person is a bit mysterious. Where do emotions come from? How do they relate to our spirit, mind and soul? How are they affected by our personality, background, experiences, and relationships? I must admit, I don’t have all the answers. What I do know is that God is an emotional being and He made us in His image, and so we are emotional beings. We have this emotional component that’s part of our personhood, our humanness. But how can we be godly and have godly emotions? It’s by having a relationship with God. John 17:3

When I was 18, by God’s grace, I was born again, I became a Christian. I experienced the most amazing miracle and transformation – I became a child of God, a new person in Christ, a temple of the Spirit. Life for me was now different, dramatically, wonderfully, and eternally so. Without Christ, there was fear, guilt, loneliness, sadness, selfishness, emptiness, and emotions that went along with them, emotions that affected my mood and were heard in my words and seen in my actions. Knowing the truth about Christ and what He did for me, that I was saved, forgiven, and loved, greatly affected me. I began to know and experience the love, joy, peace, mercy, and presence of Christ. I had a personal relationship with God that influenced my relationships with people. By no means was I perfect, but I was changing and growing, with a love for God and people, new thoughts, new desires, and new emotions. John 10:10, 2 Corinthians 5:17

The key to all this is the truth and Spirit of God. Jesus tells us, “You will know the truth and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). Before being saved, I was a sad, lonely, quiet, and unfeeling kind of a person. But knowing the truth, that is, knowing Jesus Christ and the truth of the gospel, set me free from sin, and changed me, spiritually and emotionally so. Proverbs 23:7 says, “As a man thinks, so he is.” I began to see that the key to not being led by circumstances and emotions was to be filled up and led by God’s truth and God’s Spirit. John 14:16-17

Here are some examples. Let’s say a Christian is sad. Now I’m not saying he can’t ever be sad, but if that’s how he feels every day, if he’s continually sad, then something’s wrong, and he’s not experiencing God’s truth and power in his life. What he needs to do is think about the truth, that God is loving, kind, forgiving, sovereign, and has good plans for him – and knowing these truths will help take away his sadness. Let’s say a person is lonely and feels lonely, and severely so. He needs to think about the truth that God is with Him, the Spirit is in Him, and that he knows God and can talk to God. And so, if there’s sadness, there can be joy; if loneliness, then fellowship; if hate, then love; if anger, then forgiveness; if fear, then courage; if worries, then peace; if grief, then hope. This spiritual transformation, being godly and having these Christ-like emotions, only happens by God’s word and Spirit. Galatians 2:20

The truth in the book of Psalms is one way God wants to help you be a strong Christian. More than any other book, it talks about having a close relationship with God, and being spiritually and emotionally encouraged by Him. It’s filled with stories about godly saints, their problems and emotions, and how God helped them when life was hard. Here are some examples:

Psalm 13 – “Will you forget me forever?” David felt like God had forsaken him, had left him, had hid His face from him. David felt all alone and had sorrow in his heart. But he trusted God, remembered his salvation, and believed God would show His love to him. Not only that, but David remembered how God had blessed him, and was determined to sing to Him. Psalm 9

Psalm 37 – “Do not fret because of evildoers, be not envious…” David was thinking about the enemies’ success, and how they were against him, and he was fretting, envious and angry. What he needed to do was trust in the Lord, do good, delight in the Lord, rest in the Lord, be humble, have God’s law in his heart, believe that the enemy would be defeated, and believe the promise, that he would “inherit the land,” a promise for Christians too. Psalm 67

Psalm 42 – “Why are you in despair, O my soul?” David was in despair, his soul was troubled and disturbed, and he was “mourning because of the oppression of the enemy.” David knew God was his only answer, his only hope, and so he says, “My soul pants for You.” He prayed to God, hoped in God, believing that He would once again show him His love. And he was going to praise God, for he says to himself, “Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him.” Psalm 43

Psalm 73 – “I was envious of the arrogant as I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” Asaph was a godly man, but he still had troubles. Then he saw the wicked and proud, those who seemed “successful” and were “at ease,” and he became envious and bitter. But Asaph came into the “sanctuary of God” and realized that God was with him, would keep Him safe, guide him, and bring him to heaven, whereas the wicked would not be blessed, but would perish forever. Psalm 1

Psalm 88 – “My soul has had enough troubles… darkness is my closest friend.” This is a very dark Psalm, for the writer has no friends, and feels forsaken, afflicted, rejected and cut off from God, like he’s “about to die.” And the only answer given is that he cried out to God. Sometimes praying and waiting on God is all we can do, knowing that only He can help us. Psalm 100

The Psalms is such an important book, one that we need now, one that is particularly helpful to Christians in the end-times. Times will get tougher, for birth pains will continue, the Antichrist will come, and there will be great tribulation. Read and study the Psalms, for in the difficult days ahead, they will bring comfort, peace, hope, and strength to your soul. Psalm 23

In all this, I am not telling you to focus on how you feel, on your emotions, but I am saying you should focus on loving and obeying God, on being filled with His Word and Spirit, for then you will be spiritually and emotionally strong, and will be what God wants you to be, with the result that great glory will be given to Him. “I will extol You, my God, O King, and I will bless Your name forever and ever… And all flesh will bless His holy name forever and ever.” Psalm 145

P.S. When we talk about our emotions, we need to think of God’s love for us, and here’s an article that speaks about that – “The Father’s Love for His Children.” And here’s a previous post that talks about our love for Jesus – “The Rapture, A Love Story.”

The Coronavirus Alarm – Christians Need to Wake Up!

March 27, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #162 ~

As you know, the coronavirus has resulted in people getting sick and even dying. It has caused quarantines, social distancing, slowdowns, shutdowns, shortages, markets falling, job losses and financial losses. I am amazed and astounded how this one little virus has spread all over the world and affected so many lives. But has not God not ordained this? Yes, He has, and I believe one reason for this is because He wants to get our attention, He wants Christians to wake up and not be so worldly and fleshly minded. 1 Cor. 3:1-3

There is this physical virus, but much worse than that, there’s a spiritual virus in the souls of many believers, for they are busy loving themselves and the world, but aren’t loving God. While I am sad that many are sick and dying, I am also thankful that God is using this coronavirus to cause us to slow down, to even stop us, and why? So we see what’s most important and seek Him. David said, “He makes me lie down in green pastures” (Psalm 23:2). More than anything or anyone else, you need the Lord. He must be first in your life, your most important relationship, the One you greatly love. “Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth.” Ps. 73:25-26, Col. 3:1-4, 1 John 2:15-17

My favorite verse on this subject is John 17:3. Jesus said to His Father, “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” Jesus defined eternal life as knowing God, as having a relationship with God and Himself. This is so incredible, so wonderful, that we can have a personal and permanent relationship with the living God, that He can talk to us and we can talk to Him, He can love us and we can love Him, we can know Him, spend time with Him, and be satisfied by Him. “I said to the Lord, ‘You are my Lord, I have no good besides You.’” Psalm 16:2; John 4:14, 6:51, 10:11

What a miracle, what a blessing, that we can know God and have a relationship with Him. What Christ did for us by dying on the cross and rising from the dead resulted in more than just being made righteous but being reconciled to God and having a relationship with Him. God could have saved us and set us in some far corner of the universe for all eternity. But no, He saved us so we could be His children and have this intimate relationship with Him, and then someday, leave this earth and literally be with Him in heaven. Psalm 23:6, 1 Thess. 4:15-17

Your relationship with God is the single most important thing in your life, and He doesn’t want you to be deceived, to think you are doing good if, in fact, you are living on the “junk food” of the world. Sadly, this deception describes the lives of many Christians: “Thus says the Lord… they went far from Me and walked after emptiness and became empty… My people have committed two evils; they have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, to hew for themselves cisterns, broken cisterns that can hold no water.’” Jeremiah 2:5, 13

I hope you realize that worldly and fleshly desires wage war against your soul, and to have a close relationship with God is a continual struggle, one you need to keep winning. (1 Pet. 2:11-12). Here’s how Paul says it – “I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (Phil. 3:7-10). God wants you to see the present and eternal value of knowing Him and Jesus. And to know Them means you know who They are, Their offices, character and purpose. God is your Father, and Jesus is your Creator, Lord, Savior, and coming King. Their character is perfect – They are holy, just, wise, good, powerful, loving, patient, forgiving, faithful, sovereign, etc. And God’s purpose is to be glorified, and for us to be satisfied, rejoicing in Him, and worshiping Him. But it’s not just knowing these things in your head but also knowing them in your heart and life.

One of God’s primary desires for you, whether that’s here or in heaven, is for you to know Him. Let me ask you: are you experiencing God’s forgiveness? Do you see that He is patient with you? Do you see that He is good to you? Do you see how He is sovereign in your life? Do you see how He loves you? Can you say, “Your love is better than life” (Ps. 63:4). I can’t stress enough the importance of knowing God, who He is and what He is like. Here’s what Jeremiah says, “Let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth.” Jer. 9:24

But it’s more than that. Your relationship with God is not one-sided. It’s not just what God says to you or does for you – it’s you relating to Him and responding to Him. Prov. 8:17
– It’s thanking God for saving you, for providing all your needs, for giving you a job, a place to live, a church, a family, friends, and so many spiritual and eternal blessings. 1 Thess. 5:18
– It’s praising God, exalting Him, loving Him with all your heart. Psalm 118:28
– It’s loving God’s word and meditating on it. It’s believing the truths and promises in His word. And it’s obeying His commands. Psalm 1:2, 119:55-56, 119:97
– It’s praying – it’s seeking Him and asking Him to help you and others. Heb. 11:6
– It’s getting time alone with Him, and pouring out your heart, praying to Him, listening to Him and learning from Him, and being spiritually refreshed. Mark 1:35
– It’s walking with God, going through the day knowing He is with you. It means loving Him, trusting Him, obeying Him, confessing sin, asking Him for help, and being encouraged by Him. Gen. 5:24

I strongly believe God is using use this Coronavirus Pandemic to wake up Christians, to revive us so that we are joyfully walking with Him and living for Him. “Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for salvation is nearer to us than when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11). You have a Father who loves you so much, a Savior who died for you, lives for you, prays for you, and can’t wait to see you! And He doesn’t want you sleeping. During this time of social distancing, make sure you are not distant from God, but are awake and close to Him. In His rebuke to the lukewarm Laodicean Christians, Jesus says, “‘Therefore, be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come into him and will dine with him, and he with Me’” (Rev. 3:19-20). Jesus said to Martha, and to us, “… you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:41-42

This blog site is about the end-times, and the closer we get to Christ’s return, the more difficult life will be. What’s most important now, and in times of great tribulation, is your relationship with God. If you are walking with God, then you will have all the grace and peace you need, and everything will work out for His glory and for your good. During our life on this earth, might we say, “I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see Him with my own eyes – How my heart yearns within me.” Job 19:25-27

P.S. The Coronavirus Pandemic is presently the greatest physical danger in the world, and God is trying to teach us some important lessons. Here are three posts on this subject, and I recommend that you read them: “The Coronavirus, Plagues, and the End-Times”, “The Coronavirus – Fear and Panic, or Faith and Peace”, and “The Coronavirus, Christians, and the Coming of Christ.”

The Coronavirus – Fear and Panic, or Faith and Peace

March 18, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #160 ~

Most of you have been following the Coronavirus crisis which has now affected more than 150 countries in the world. For many people, it has been extremely frightening to see this epidemic so quickly become a pandemic, to see more and more people getting sick and dying. Coupled with that, many are concerned, and rightly so, about their families, jobs, financial situation, and future. But as Christians, God doesn’t want us to be afraid, to panic, but to have faith, to be trusting Him, knowing that He will give us all the grace and peace we need. For those of you who don’t know Christ, I encourage you to turn from sin and turn to Him, believing that He died to pay for your sins so you could be forgiven and be given eternal life. “For Christ also died fir sins once for all, the just for the unjust, in order that He might bring us to God.” 1 Peter 3:18

Because of the present distress, I have been studying faith and fear, and it’s a big subject in the Bible. My purpose in these next two posts is to share some lessons I have learned about this. I have also written out a number of verses for your personal encouragement and study.

Here are some lessons:
1. God does not want you to be afraid. God is your heavenly Father and knows it’s not good for you when you are afraid. He wants you to see that you are His child and that you are to go to Him when you are fearful. His desire is for you to be filled with His perfect peace, which is not a natural or human emotion, but a spiritual and godly experience. This peace is a fruit of the Spirit, what God freely and abundantly gives to you and every one of His children. Gal. 5:22, John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.”

2. Everyone has fears, no person is immune from them. But for the Christian, God doesn’t want us to try to resolve our fears in a fleshly or worldly way, but in the way He tells us in His Word. Yes, there are human ways of dealing with fears, but they do not solve the real problem. Without God, His Word, and the Holy Spirit, we cannot truly get rid of our fears, for only God has written out the right prescription for us. “He who abides in Me and I in Him, he bears much fruit. Apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

3. What’s ultimately important is fearing God. This is a major theme in the Bible, for if you are not fearing God, you will be fearing people and things. Fearing God means you are in awe of Him, that you revere and respect Him, that you know He is holy, all powerful, and sovereign. If you are seeing God for who He really is, and you know He loves you, then there is nothing and no one to be afraid of. When God is first and central in your life, then you won’t be an anxious, worried and a fearful person. Isaiah 8:12-13, Luke 12:4-5 – “My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast you into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him!”

4. God allows fearful situations to test you, to teach you to trust Him, to believe in Him, to be close to Him so you experience and are encouraged by His peace, comfort and power. John 14:1, 2 Cor. 1:3-11, James 1:2 – “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.”  

5. This present Coronavirus pandemic is a test, a trial for you and all Christians. How are you doing during this crisis? Are you trusting God and depending on Him? God wants you to learn this lesson of not being afraid, but of trusting Him with your life, family, job, finances, and future. By His grace, might you not just pass this test, but ace it. Psalm 56:4, 1 Peter 1:6-7 – “In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith… may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

6. God’s love drives out all human fear. If you are afraid, worried, or scared, then you are not experiencing the love of God like you ought. You are like a little child who is crying and distressed because he cannot see His mother or father. And so, when you are afraid and feel alone and helpless, look to God, knowing that He is with you, and that He is gentle, loving and kind. Let Him hold you and help you, and then you will find peace. 1 John 4:18 – “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love.”

7. God does not want you to be afraid like the unbelievers in the world, but instead to be at peace, and to be confident and courageous. Then you will be a light to the lost, a witness to the worriers, and seen as one who knows God the Father, and Jesus, His Son. Matt. 5:16, Acts 4:13 – “As they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus.”

8. Now that we are in the end times, there will be more and more “birth pains.” Plagues, (e.g. this Coronavirus) are but one of them, along with wars, earthquakes, famines, and financial problems (Matt. 24:4-8, Rev. 6:1-8). Now is the time, in this calm before the big storms, to learn this lesson of trusting Him, for these global calamities will continue to occur, and increasingly so, in these last years before Christ returns to rapture the church. I cannot help but believe that God is getting His people ready now for what lies ahead, when things become even more difficult, especially when there is great tribulation. Luke 21:11 – “There will be great earthquakes, and in various places plagues and famines.”

9. God tells us how to overcome fear. First, know that you are exceedingly valuable in God’s eyes, that you are His precious child, and He doesn’t want you to be afraid. Second, trust God, believe in Him. And to trust Him, you need to know Him and His character of love, power, wisdom, goodness, sovereignty, etc. Third, seek Him, asking Him to take away your fears, and instead give you peace, the tranquil spirit of knowing that everything is all right, for your Father is much stronger and much smarter than everyone else, and He will let nothing hurt you. Matt. 10:31, Psalm 34:4, Phil. 4:6-7 – “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

10. Do not be afraid of the future, of tomorrow, next week, next year, of the unknown. God knows your future, has wisely planned out your future, and will carefully carry out His plans for you, leading you in the way you should go. You see, God has gone ahead of you, and will then go with you, and be with you every step of the way. Learn to take one day at a time and, like Enoch, walk with God. You need not fear the future, but be like the godly woman of whom it is said, “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future.” Prov. 31:25, Gen. 6:22, Psalm 32:8, Matt. 6:34, Deut. 31:7-8 – “Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land… The Lord is the One who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”

Here are some verses about fear, faith, the future and the work and glory of God.
* Genesis 15:1 – “After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, ‘Do not fear, Abram, I am a shield to you; your reward shall be very great.’”
* Exodus 14:13-14 – “Do not fear! Stand by and see the salvation of the Lord which He will accomplish for you today… the Lord will fight for you while you keep silent.”
* Exodus 20:20 – “Do not be afraid; for God has come in order to test you, and in order that the fear of Him may remain with you, so that you may not sin.”
* Numbers 14:9 – “Only do not rebel against the Lord; and do not fear the people of the land, for they will be our prey. Their protection has been removed from them, and the Lord is with us; do not fear them.”
* Deuteronomy 3:22 – “Do not fear them, for the Lord your God is fighting for you.”

* Deuteronomy 20:3 – “Hear, O Israel, you are approaching the battle against your enemies today. Do not be fainthearted. Do not be afraid, or panic or tremble before them.”
* Deuteronomy 31:7-8 – “Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land… The Lord is the One who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
* Joshua 1:7-9 – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and very courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
* Judges 6:23-24 – “The Lord said to Gideon, ‘Peace to you, do not fear; you shall not die. Then Gideon built an altar there to the Lord and named it the Lord is Peace.”
* 2 Kings 6:15,16 – “Behold, an army with horses and chariots was circling the city. And his servant said, ‘Alas, my master! What shall we do?’ So he answered, ‘Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’”

* 2 Chronicles 20:3,17 – “Jehoshaphat was afraid and turned his attention to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. So Judah gathered together to seek help from the Lord… ‘You need not fight in this battle; station yourselves, stand and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf… Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out to face them, for the Lord is with you.’”
* Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with Me.”
* Psalm 27:1 – “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the defense of my life; whom shall I dread?”
* Psalm 34:4 – “I sought the Lord and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.”
* Psalm 46:1-2, 10 – “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea… Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

* Psalm 56:4 – “In God, whose word I praise, in God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid… What can mere man do to me?”
* Psalm 112:5-7 – “It is well with the man who is gracious and lends; He will maintain his cause in judgment. For he will never be shaken; the righteous will be remembered forever. He will not fear evil tidings; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.”
* Psalm 118:6 – “The Lord is for me; I will not fear; what can man do to me?
* Isaiah 8:12-13 – “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 what they fear or be in dread of it. It is the Lord whom you should regard as holy. And He shall be your fear, and He shall be your dread.”
* Isaiah 26:3 – “The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord, we have an everlasting Rock.”

P.S. So many people are wondering what is happening with COVID-19, and we really need to know how it relates to prophecy and the end-times. If you haven’t already, I would encourage you to read my posts titled, “The Coronavirus, Plagues and the End-Times,” and “When the Storms Come, Don’t be Afraid.”

Being a Watchman for the Church in the End-Times

March 6, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #158 ~

God has lovingly and wisely given us His prophetic word, His plans for the future. Now that we are in the closing years of this church age, it’s imperative that we read “and heed the things which are written in it, for the time is near” (Revelation 1:3). But we also need to be watchmen, ones who 1) study God’s word to find out what He wants us to know about the future; 2) teach this prophetic truth to other Christians; 3) see these prophecies fulfilled in the world around us; and 4) tell others they are being fulfilled, thereby encouraging one another that Christ is coming soon to rapture the church. Study, teach, see and tell – this is what it means to be a watchman. But what should you do to become a watchman for the church in the end times?

* Ask God to give you understanding. God is your Teacher and, through the Holy Spirit, will reveal His truth to you as you seek Him and study His word. Prov. 2:3-7, Luke 24:44-45

* Study the primary prophecy passages. God told us ahead of time what will be taking place in the coming years, and we need to study His word to find out what He wants us to know. Here are the main subjects: end-time events, Christ’s coming, the rapture, the day of the Lord, the salvation of the Jews, and the age to come. To learn about these things, study Dan. 7-12, Matt. 24, Luke 21, Romans 11, 1 Thess. 4:13-18 – 5:11, 2 Thess. 1-2, and Revelation.

* Understand the chronology, the order of end-time events. God knows exactly what He is going to do and when He is going to do it. He has not told us all the details, but He has given us a general plan, a good outline of the end-times. There is a lot of confusion as to what and when things will happen, and this should not be. Be a teacher and a watchman so you can help others clearly understand the chronology, the divine sequence of end-time events.

* Learn the timing words and look for them, for they help you see the overall chronology of end-time events. Frequently used ones are “then, before, after, immediately, at that time, until, when, end.” For example, when you study Matthew 24, you will notice these timing words, which help you to know what happens when, and how one event leads to another and to another, until that time when Christ returns to rapture the church.

* Study the prophecy terms. When you study a subject, there are particular terms that need to be understood, and so too with prophecy. Here are some examples: end-times, birth pains, apostasy, Daniel’s 70 weeks, Daniel’s 70th week, Antichrist, seals, trumpets, bowls, abomination of desolation, Day of the Lord, Christ’s coming, rapture, and millennium. I encourage you to study the list of Key Terms, for that will help you understand them.

* Know that we are now living in the end-times. That millions of Jewish people have gathered back to their land, to Israel, is the main reason we know we are living in the end-times. When you study prophecy, you realize it cannot be fulfilled unless the Jews are back in their land. Not only that, but during these end-times, God’s work with the church coincides with His work with the Jews, leading to Christ returning to rapture the church and save a remnant of Jews. Ezekiel 36-37; Dan. 12:4, 9; Rom. 11:25-27

* At this time in history, we are at that stage called the “beginning of birth pangs” (Matt. 24:8). Many events characterize this stage of the end-times – wars, earthquakes, famines, plagues, and financial distress. It must be noted that these events aren’t occurring in every country but are happening in various places around the world. Now some say these “birth pangs” only occur during Daniel’s 70th week, but I believe they have been going on for over 100 years and will continue into this still future 70th week. As these things take place, the watchman needs to reassure fearful Christians that “those things must take place, but that is not yet the end” (Matt. 24:6). These “birth pangs” are signs from God that we are in the end-times, that Christ’s coming is drawing near, but will not happen right away.

* Know the other signs and prophesied events, and how they fit in with the end-times. There will be a peace treaty, apostasy, increasing lawlessness, great persecution of Jews and Christians, the revealing of the Antichrist, the desolation of the temple, the mark of the Beast, and world-wide preaching of the gospel (Dan. 9:27, Matt. 24:9-14, 2 Thess. 2:1-9, Rev. 13). As a watchman, it’s important for you to see the pre-conditions, things leading up to these aforementioned events. Here are some examples: that the Antichrist will rule this entire earth means the United States will decline from her position as the world’s #1 super-power; that the temple will be desolated means it first has to be built; that there will be apostasy means we will see the continued downgrade of the visible church, the so-called church; that the gospel will be preached to all the nations means we will continue to see this happen in the years ahead. The end-times’ watchman is a God-loving, truth-studying, clear-thinking saint who understands the times (1 Chron. 12:32). He sees what is taking place around the world, connects it to God’s prophetic word, and then tells others how it relates to Christ’s return and the rapture of the church.

* Learn about Daniel’s 70th week, a future, seven-year time-frame packed with prophetic activity. Know the main events taking place during this week, the peace-treaty at the beginning of the week, the revealing of the Antichrist at its midpoint, the rapture taking place sometime during the last half of this week, and the salvation of the Jews at the end of the week. Once we are at the midpoint, then we know with certainty that it’s only a matter of time (less than 37 months) before Christ comes back to take us home to heaven.

* The final sign to occur before Christ’s coming is the heavenly lights being darkened. At this time the rapture is both imminent and immediate, for in a matter of seconds, you will see your Savior in the clouds, be suddenly snatched off the earth, be joyfully reunited with other believers, be perfectly glorified, and then forever be in Jesus’ glorious presence.

* “This generation will not pass away until all these things take place” (Matthew 24:34). One generation of people, a select and special number of Christians on earth, will see all these things spoken of in Matthew 24. It might be you, your family, your friends. For God’s sake, be a good student and know these things written in Matthew 24 and other prophecy passages. Be a watchman and be looking for God’s word to be fulfilled, and when it does, tell others what it means, and that it won’t be long before Christ comes back to rapture the church. Be “encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25

P.S. When the Coronavirus and other major calamitous events take place, it’s important to know clearly what God says about the future. God does not want you to be afraid, but to be confidently and excitedly looking ahead to Christ’s coming. Here are two posts that will help you understand what God wants you to know: “What Needs to Happen Before Christ Returns?” and “What the Bible Says About the Future?”

The Coronavirus, Plagues, and the End-Times

February 27, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #157 ~

I assume you have heard of the coronavirus, the contagious flu virus that started in China and has been spreading to other countries. This respiratory ailment, also called COVID-19, can be deadly, particularly with the elderly, and the sick. This can be frightening, especially when you hear about quarantines, lock-downs, social distancing, cancellations, and see people wearing masks and, worst of all, that many are dying. As of today (3/11/20), reports (worldometers.info) are that 125,810 people have been infected, and that 4,607 have died, most of these in China. On one hand, there’s reason to be afraid, for there’s presently no proven cure, and we don’t know where it will spread, and how many more will die before scientists develop a vaccine. 

That being said, some say this virus is being hyped-up, that it is not now and will not in the future be as deadly as plagues in the past. At “cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/index”, we read, “CDC estimates that influenza (in the U.S.) has resulted in between 12,000 – 61,000 deaths annually since 2010.” Those are huge numbers of people dying just because of the flu. Then there’s the 1918 influenza pandemic with an estimated 50 million deaths worldwide (“cdc.gov/flu/pandemic-resources), a number that dwarfs the now known deaths from COVID-19. But to be honest, there are too many unknowns to predict what is going to happen with this particular virus.

Regardless of how many will die from what has just been declared to be a global pandemic by the World Health Organization, there have always been contagious diseases (plagues), and they will continue in the future. One reason we know this is because the Bible says so. Now only one verse in the New Testament talks about plagues and, interestingly, it is found in a passage that describes the end-times and Christ’s coming. What does it say? “There will be great earthquakes, and in various places plagues and famines; and there will be terrors and great signs from heaven” (Luke 21:11). Jesus is talking, among other things, about plagues. Vine’s dictionary defines it as “a pestilence, and deadly infectious malady, (it) is used in the plural in Luke 21:11.” A plague is a pestilence, an infectious disease which can be deadly and is usually widespread.

What does God want us to learn about plagues in the end-times?
1. Jesus tells His disciples many things that will be occurring in the end-times before His 2nd coming, and one of these is plagues. He gives us advance notice so we aren’t afraid, and so we are alerted to the fact that He will soon be returning to rapture the church.

2. The immediate context lists other things that will be taking place: wars, famines, great earthquakes, terrors and great signs from heaven. In addition to these, Matt. 24:4-26, 2 Thess. 2:1-8, and Rev. 6:1-14 describe conditions and different events occurring on the earth before Christ’s return. There will be increasing lawlessness, financial meltdowns, persecution, deception, apostasy, the Antichrist on earth, and the desolation of the temple. Therefore, the rapture of the church is not imminent, and cannot happen at any time.

3. These plagues, along with wars, famines and earthquakes, will be occurring in “various places” around the world. This means none of these particular events are happening all over the world, just in “various places.” With regards to these plagues, this seems to say that there will never be a global pandemic. For example, as of now, only a handful of people in the United States have been diagnosed as having this coronavirus, which means the vast majority are just hearing about it, but are not experiencing it. Matthew 24:6

4. Matthew 24:8, in reference to these plagues and other end-time signs, says, “All these things are… birth pangs.” Before a woman gives birth, she experiences birth pains, which increase in both intensity and frequency, and likewise, these plagues and other events will increase in both intensity and frequency. In context of the larger picture, it must be seen that this present plague, COVID-19, is one of many birth pains. The accumulated effect of these birth pains will be deteriorating conditions around the world, which will result in people wanting a “savior.” Sadly, billions of people will be deceived when this “savior”, this evil, devilish man, the Antichrist, begins ruling the earth. But always remember, these birth pains are pointing to that time when Jesus Christ will come back to rapture the church and defeat the Antichrist.

5. With regards to these signs and events, Jesus says, “these things must take place first, but the end does not follow immediately” (Luke 21:9). In Matt. 24:8, Jesus tells us, “All these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.” As you probably know, a pregnant woman has beginning birth pains, which are not extremely painful, but her pain intensifies the closer she is to giving birth. So too, the plagues, earthquakes, famines, wars are just beginning signs indicating that Christ’s return is drawing near. As time goes on, these prophesied events will continue to take place, and increasingly so. When I look at God’s word, and look out at what’s happening in the world, I believe we are now at this beginning stage, that we are living in the last years of this church age. But many more things still need to happen before Christ comes backs to take His bride to heaven, particularly, events related to Daniel’s 70th week and the Jewish people.

6. These plagues and other events taking place are wake-up calls for the Christians, are to alert us and make us aware that it won’t be long before our Savior returns to rapture the church. Luke 21:28 says it this way, “When these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Romans 13:11 tells us, “Do this, understanding the present time: the hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation now is nearer than when we first believed.”

7. These events, like loud-sounding sirens warning of danger, are also for the unsaved. It is not physical death that is to be feared, not a plague, an earthquake or a war, but Christ Himself, the Judge of all the earth. Might unbelievers be terrified by these events, so they turn from their sin and turn to Christ. The greatest disease is not a physical disease, but the spiritual disease called sin, a spiritual cancer that kills the soul – and the only cure is Jesus Christ. “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8). “God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Cor. 5:21). “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but receive eternal life” (John 3:16). If Jesus Christ has not saved your soul, if you have not yet been forgiven of your sins, then now’s the time to turn to Him and receive eternal life. Do this before it’s too late, before Christ returns to rapture the church, before you are left on earth fearfully trying to hide from Him, knowing you will be judged forever by the Holy and Mighty One. But “whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13

P.S. It’s important that we are not afraid during difficult times like these. Here’s a post that I believe will help you to have the peace God wants you to have – “The Coronavirus – Fear and Panic, or Faith and Peace.” And here is another post that will help you understand what God wants you to know about the end-times. “Does Anybody Know What Time It Is?”

When is Christ Returning to Rapture the Church?

January 31, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #153 ~

This is an important question, one not to be ignored, but one that needs to be answered. Some might say this question should not even be asked. But the prophets wanted to know (1 Peter 1:11). The angels wanted to know (1 Peter 1:12). Jesus’ disciples wanted to know (Matthew 24:3). And all Christians, especially at this time in history, should want to know. The truth is, God wants you to know, and gives you all the information you need so you can know when Christ will be coming back to rapture the church. What does God tell us?

* We live in the end times (Daniel 12:4, 9), that time during which the rapture will occur. That the Jewish people have regathered to their land means that God is, once again, actively carrying out His plans for them, and is proof that we live in the end times. Daniel 7-12 describes many conditions that need to be in place before Christ comes and fulfills His promises to the Jews. Then Matthew 24:4-27, Luke 21:8-33, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9 and Revelation 6-7, show us that what happens to the church in the end times corresponds and / or coincides with what happens to the Jews in the end times. Therefore, in these last years before Christ’s return, it’s imperative to know what God says about Jews and Christians, for His work with both groups culminates in Christ’s coming, resulting in the church being raptured, a Jewish remnant being saved, and His kingdom being set up on earth. 

* The rapture of the church takes place at Christ’s coming, and is the first event to occur at His coming. There are not two comings. There is not the rapture, and later on, Christ’s coming. There is only one coming of Christ, at which time there’s the rapture of the church, God’s wrath, and many Jews being saved. Matthew 24:27-31, 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17, 2 Thessalonians 2:1

* Christ’s coming is not imminent, cannot happen at any time, and does not happen without God giving us advance notice. Some people believe no prophesied signs or events need to occur before Christ’s coming, but that is not true. God tells us many things that need to take place before Christ’s coming and the rapture of the church (Matthew 24:4-30, Luke 21:4-28, Revelation 6). Matthew 24:33 makes this point very clear: “When you see all these things (events listed in Matthew 24:4-30), recognize that He is near, right at the door.” 

* We do not know the specific time of Christ’s return. Anyone who says they know exactly when Christ is coming back is wrong. Jesus said it best, “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone.” Matthew 24:36

* We know the general time of Christ’s coming. As was previously stated, many events will occur before Christ’s coming and the rapture. The last generation of Christians living in the end times will see these things taking place and realize Christ’s return is at hand (Matthew 24:32-34). God wants us to know that His Son’s return is getting closer. He wants to give us hope, and to be looking forward to Christ’s coming, and to be “encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25

* Understanding Daniel’s 70th week is key to knowing when Christ will return to rapture the church. At the beginning of this 70th week, a peace treaty between the Jews and the Antichrist will be signed; at the midpoint of this week, the Antichrist is revealed; and at the end of this 7-year time frame, a Jewish remnant is saved (Daniel 9:24-27). Then we learn, as we will see next, that the rapture occurs sometime during the last half of this 70th week.

* The church is raptured after the Antichrist is revealed. Daniel 9:27 informs us that the Antichrist is revealed at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week. Matthew 24:15-31, Mark 13:14-27, and 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9 each give a chronology of end-time events, making it clear that Christ’s coming occurs after the Antichrist’s coming. Therefore, the rapture, the 1st event at Christ’s coming, takes place after the Antichrist is revealed, which means it happens sometime during the last 3½ years of Daniel’s 70th week, at a time unknown to us.

* The last signs taking place before Christ’s coming and the rapture of the church are a great earthquake, the sun turning dark, and the powers of heaven being shaken. These earth-shocking events mark the end of this age! Immediately after this, the skies light up – “as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be” (Matthew 24:27-31). “The Lord Himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God; and the dead in Christ will rise first.” The Christians still on earth, seeing, feeling and hearing all these things, will know their Savior has come to take them home to heaven. “We who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so, we will be with the Lord forever.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

* God gives us a list of events that need to occur before Christ’s return and the rapture of the church. There will be false Christs, birth pains (earthquakes, famines, plagues, wars), increasing lawlessness, the signing of a treaty by the Jews, a great apostasy, the building of a temple in Jerusalem, the desolation of the temple by the Antichrist, the preaching of the gospel to the entire world, great persecution against Jews and Christians, the forming of a ten-nation kingdom led by the Antichrist, the forcing of people to worship the Antichrist and take his mark, a great earthquake, and the celestial lights going dark. Then the whole world “will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” Matthew 24:3-31; Luke 21:7-8; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9; Revelation 6, 13, 17

* What God says about Christ’s return and the timing of His return is 100% true, and that’s because God’s word is 100% true. That is, the reason we know the “what” and the “when” about Christ’s coming is because God tells us, and God never lies – He always tells the truth. To drive that point home, in the middle of five verses that actually speak about the timing of His return, Christ says this about God’s prophetic word – “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away” (Matthew 24:35). With absolute certainty, God is telling you that His Son, Jesus Christ, is coming again, and that He is coming soon, sometime during the 2nd half of Daniel’s 70th week. “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”

P.S. Another post that helps you understand when the rapture will occur is “The Timing of the Rapture.” As most of you know, the Super Bowl is this Sunday night, but here’s a previous post that tells you what’s most important: “Super Events Are Coming Soon.”

Revelation 2-3 — End-Times’ Instructions for the Church

November 22, 2019 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #145 ~

The entire book of Revelation is important for Christians to understand, but chapters 2-3 are essential, and that’s because Jesus Christ is giving instructions to the churches. Much of Revelation describes events and details God wants us to know, but these two chapters tell the churches how they are to live for Him, what they need to believe and do. Revelation 2-3 are seven letters written to seven churches existing in the 1st century, but they have been instructive to churches throughout the years, and now that we live in the end-times, they are especially relevant to us, “for the time is near” (Revelation 1:3). What do we learn from these end-times’ chapters?

There is a striking, powerful and glorious description of Jesus, our Savior, Lord and King, and the coming Judge, given in Revelation 1:12-17. We see that He is walking (spiritually speaking) among the lampstands, which are the churches. That He is walking means He actively loves us, cares for us, and is building each church, which is what He promised to Peter (Matthew 16:18). Jesus knows our deeds, He knows how we are doing, both the good and the bad. He commends the churches when they are doing what is right, but corrects them when they are doing what is wrong. Jesus also promises the overcomers, the victorious Christians, that He will greatly and eternally bless them.

There are seven churches, similar to those that have existed throughout history, and to ones in our own cities and towns today. There are small churches and big churches, holy churches and unholy churches, strong churches and weak churches, live churches and dead churches, victorious churches and struggling churches, persecuted churches and worldly churches, and truth-full churches and error-filled churches.

There are the angels, super-strong helpers of Jesus who carry out His work in the churches (Revelation 1:20, 2:1, 2:8, 2:12, 2:18, 3:1, 3:7, 3:14). These angels are “ministering spirits, sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14, Psalm 103:20). This should greatly encourage us, knowing that Jesus is working with the angels, His secret-service agents whose faithful obedience to Him is seen in their divine assistance for us, and their protection of us.

There is the Holy Spirit, working with Jesus in every church and in every way, filling us, teaching us, reminding us, sanctifying us, leading us, empowering us, and blessing us. How wonderful it is to have Jesus’ Supreme Helper indwell us and be with us, ensuring that we will make it off this earth, arrive safely in heaven, and live forever and ever. Notice the final instruction to each church, that we are to listen to the Spirit, to hear what He has to say to us, for what He tells us is extremely important. Revelation 2:7, 2:11, 2:17, 2:29, 3:6, 3:13, 3:22

There are many lessons Jesus wants us to learn and apply to our lives:
* to persevere and endure (Rev. 2:3, 2:19, 2:26),
* to love Jesus (Rev. 2:4),
* to repent of any sin (Rev. 2:5, 2:16, 2:21, 3:3, 3:19),
* to hate evil, and not tolerate evil people who are in the church (Rev. 2:2, 2:6),
* to not be afraid of persecution, imprisonment, and suffering (Rev. 2:10),
* to be faithful unto death (Rev. 2:10, 2:13),
* to not deny the faith, and not deny Jesus (Rev. 2:13, 3:8),
* to correct error and false teaching (Rev. 2:14-15, 2:20, 2:24),
* to love, to have faith, and to serve (Rev. 2:19),
* to be growing, to be making progress (Rev. 2:19),
* to not be impure or immoral (Rev. 2:14, 2:20-21),
* to know and fight against Satan’s schemes (Rev. 2:9, 2:13, 2:24, 3:9),
* to complete the work God gives you to do (Rev. 3:2, 3:8),
* to remember what you have learned from Jesus (Rev. 3:3),
* to keep and obey God’s word (Rev. 3:3, 3:8),
* to be holy (Rev. 3:4, 3:15-19),
* to know God’s love (Rev. 3:9),
* to believe that Jesus is coming, and coming soon (Rev. 2:25, 3:11),
* to not be lukewarm, to not be worldly (Rev. 3:15-16),
* to not trust in your riches and be deceived (Rev. 3:17),
* to be an overcomer, to be victorious, and to believe all the promises (Rev. 2:7, 2:11, 2:17, 2:26, 3:5, 3:12, 3:21)
* to have fellowship, to have a close relationship with Jesus (Rev. 3:20).
* These are the truths Jesus wants you to know and apply to your life today, and all the way to the end of your life on earth, whether that happens by death or by rapture.

What Christ cares for most on this earth is His church, His bride, the children of God. I pray that you are in a good church, a truth-teaching, God-loving, Christ-following, Spirit-led, disciple-making, Christ-is-coming church. How exciting it is, and how privileged to be living in the end times, knowing that we are part of Christ’s church, and that it won’t be long before He returns to rapture the church and set up His kingdom on earth. Remember Jesus’ last words, repeated three times in Revelation 22, “Behold, I am coming soon.” Might we heartily and lovingly say to Him, “Come, Lord Jesus.”

P.S. Here are two other past posts that directly relate to this one – “How Then Should We Live in the End-Times?” and “Kingdom Instructions for the Church.” One more thing – have a blessed Thanksgiving. Psalm 136

Suffering for Jesus in the End Times

October 11, 2019 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #139 ~

When you study the major prophecy passages, one thing that stands out is that God talks about suffering in every single one of them. Why is that? Because God wants us to know about this suffering, this end-time’s persecution of the saints. Because Christians will be going through a lot more suffering the closer we get to Christ’s return and the rapture of the church. Because God wants us to be ready, and not be caught off guard. In this post I will summarize what these passages have to say about suffering:

Matthew 24:3-41 (Suffering – Matthew 24:9-11, 15-22, 28, 29) 
* The suffering spoken of here begins at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week (when the Antichrist is revealed), and continues until the end of the age. Matthew 24:15-29
* This suffering starts with the Jewish people in Jerusalem, and then spreads out and affects Christians all over the world. Matthew 24:9-22, Revelation 12:13-17
* This suffering is related to great tribulation. It is great in scope in that it is worldwide, and in severity, for a great number of believers will be martyred. Matthew 24:9, 21, 29
* Our primary purpose during this time is to be preaching the gospel. Matthew 24:14
* Christians enduring to the end will be saved (raptured and glorified). Matthew 24:13, 31, 40-41

Luke 21:5-36 (Suffering – Luke 21:12-19, 20-24)
* The suffering that affects Christians starts at the beginning of the church age, and continues on until the redemption (rapture) of the church. Luke 21:12, 27-28
* The Jewish people will be greatly persecuted, starting around 70 AD and continuing on until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled at the end of the age. Luke 21:20-24, 19:43-44, 23:28-31
* The enemies of the Christians are religious and governmental in nature. Luke 21:12
* One of the most difficult aspects of this persecution is that Christians will be betrayed by their own parents, brothers, sisters, relatives and friends. Luke 21:16
* This persecution will lead to opportunities for Christians to share their testimony and proclaim the gospel. God will “give you utterance and wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to resist or refute.” Luke 21:13-15
* Remember, it’s all about Jesus, and it’s for His name’s sake that you suffer. Luke 21:12

Mark 13:1-37 (Suffering – Mark 13:9-13, 14-20)
* This prophecy passage is very similar to what we read in Matthew 24, but also contains elements from the Luke 21 passage.
* The suffering focuses on the end-times, particularly that which starts at the midpoint of Daniel’s 70th week, and which affects both Jews and Christians. Mark 13:9-20
* A whole world of unbelievers will hate the Christians, wanting to put them to death (Mark 13:13). We learn, like in Luke 21, that believers will be betrayed by their own family members – brother against brother, parents against children, and children against parents. Mark 13:12
* “Take heed; behold, I have told you everything in advance” (Mark 13:23). God tells us this ahead of time, for He doesn’t want us to be surprised that we will suffer greatly in the end-times, and that many will be martyred.

2 Thessalonians 1:3-10 (Suffering – 2 Thessalonians 1:4-7)
* This persecution, this affliction (tribulation), is what the early churches experienced and what all Christians will go through – and it will continue right up until the end of the age, when Christ is revealed and the church is raptured and glorified. 2 Thessalonians 1:7, 10; Acts 14:22
* This end-time’s persecution and suffering will last only a short time, for Jesus, your Savior and King, will return and give you relief, and eternal rest. 2 Thessalonians 1:7, Revelation 14:13
* These verses keep things in perspective, for you realize that you may suffer a little while on earth, but the unsaved will suffer forever in hell, paying “the penalty of eternal destruction.” Because of the love of God and the sacrifice of Christ, you will not receive the punishment you deserve, but instead, you will be blessed forever. Revelation 21-22

Revelation 6:1-17 (Suffering – Revelation 6:8-11)
* The fifth seal speaks about martyrdom, the climax and conclusion of suffering for some, for their suffering is over, and then they go to heaven to be with Jesus.
* End-times’ martyrs will be wondering how long it will be before those who murdered them will get justice. The sixth seal signals that this suffering is all over, and that it’s time for God’s wrath to be poured out upon the unbelievers still on earth. Revelation 6:12-17
* God is sovereign over suffering. He already knows who will be killed, who will die for Him. You need not worry, for your heavenly Father is in charge, and He knows what He is doing, for your eternal good, and for His eternal purposes and glory. Revelation 6:11

Revelation 13 (Suffering – Revelation 13:7, 10, 17)
* The beast, the Antichrist, will “make war with the saints,” and overcome many of them. This may sound sad and tragic, but it is God’s will, and in the end, God will crush the Antichrist, getting a complete and decisive victory over him. Revelation 13:7, 19:19-21
* Christians need to persevere, and trust in God, knowing that He is good and holy, and that Christ will return to rescue them, and then be greatly glorified. Revelation 13:10, 7:9-14, 19:1-7

What God tells you about this end-time’s suffering is the truth, what He wants you to know, and what you need to know. Remember Jesus’ words: “Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you and falsely say all kinds evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great.” Matthew 5:10-12

P.S. As Christians, we must not sugar coat the truth. Here is what God tells us, “For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps.” Here are two more must reads on suffering: “Christians Go Through Tribulation” and “Christians Will Go Through Great Tribulation.”

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