Christ's Kingdom and the End Times

Category: Hope (Page 1 of 9)

Blog posts about hope.

The Rapture of the Church at Christ’s Coming!!

April 18, 2026 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #361 ~

All that has happened in all of history is leading up to the end of this age and the kingdom of God. And God has it all planned out, from eternity past to the creation of this world to Christ coming as Savior to the present and to His return as Redeemer, Judge, and King. Be assured that this evil age (one starting with the sin of Adam and Eve), this evil world, and the devil’s rule are soon coming to an end (Rev. 11:15). What a blessing this will be for believers! Rev. 7:9-17

We have been going through Matt. 24, the most important eschatological chapter in the New Testament. We have talked about birth pains impacting people around the world, great tribulation affecting Christians, and the Antichrist desolating the temple and persecuting the elect. There’s also lawlessness, deception, betrayal, martyrdom, gospel-preaching, and the need for believers to know this in advance. Understanding these things gives us the wisdom, peace, and hope that we need to live for Him in these end-times. God does not want any of His children, any of the chosen, to be caught off guard. He wants us to be holy, to be ready, and to be working, watching, and waiting for Him. Rom. 13:11-14, 1 Th. 5:1-11

Let’s continue in Matt. 24, specifically examining the rapture of the church at Christ’s coming. But first:
Matthew 24:28 – “Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.” In this verse, corpse refers to man’s moral corruption, and vultures refer to God’s wrath. Alan Kurschner explains it this way: “It is a pivotal structural verse in that it distinguishes two epochs of human history, conveying the principle that where moral corruption exists, divine judgment is required. When the world’s depravity has reached full to the brim, God eschatological judgment will begin.” (“Antichrist Before the Day of the Lord”, page 69). The judgment of the world begins just after the end of this age and the rapture of the church, which we read about in vss. 29-31.

Matthew 24:29 – “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened… and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” This tribulation, this great, global persecution of the elect, of both Christians and Jews, is described in vss. 9, 21-22. And it will be cut short, it will not last the entire 2nd half of Dan. 70th week. It will be shortened for the sake of the elect – otherwise, “no life would be saved.” Only God knows when this will happen.

After this tribulation is cut short, the celestial lights go out and the earth goes dark. And there’s a “great earthquake”, and “every mountain and island” is moved out of its place (Rev. 6:12-14). For unrepentat sinners, this will be one of the scariest, most traumatic times on earth. Lk. 21:25-26 says, “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, men fainting from fear and the expectation of the things which are coming upon the world.” Rev. 6:15-16 also expresses the unbelievers’ shock and fear, for they know God Himself is doing it, and that they cannot escape.

Both the prophets and the apostles knew that Is. 2:10-22, Amos. 5:18-22, Zeph. 1:14-18, Matt. 24:29, Lk. 21:9-11a, and Rev. 6:12-14 was describing the warning signs occurring before the day of the Lord, God’s judgment of the world at the end of this age. Then there’s Joel 2:20-31 – “I will display wonders in the sky and on the earth… the sun will be turned into darkness… before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes.” In fact, Peter quoted from Joel when he preached his 1st gospel message. Acts 2:19-20

Matt. 24:29 is Jesus’ answer to the disciples’ question about the sign that would happen before the end of this age. And these are visible, can’t miss signs to all people on earth at that time, Jews and Gentiles, saved and lost. Christians should be thrilled, should be jumping for joy when they see, and feel (Rev. 6:12) them, for it means that Jesus is “right at the door” (vss. 30-34), and that He will immediately take them to heaven, where they will be with Him forever!

Matthew 24:30 – “Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.” A beautiful bright light suddenly breaks through the darkness that’s covering the earth, and it’s the Shekinah glory of Christ, and it’s visible to everyone. Vs. 30, along with vs. 27, is the sign of Christ’s coming, the answer to the question the disciples asked Jesus in vs. 3. This sign of Christ’s coming (vs. 30) is after the sign of the end of the age (vs. 29), and that’s because this magnificent and glorious light immediately follows and dispels the darkness.

Unbelievers on earth are mourning and, as stated in the Greek, “beating the breast in anguish.” They know the brilliant light overpowering the darkness is evidence that the Judge is coming to pour out His wrath on them. Then they see Christ! Can you imagine how they must feel? It has to be the most heart-sinking, fear-gripping, body-shaking event of their lives (Lk. 21:26). These unrepentant sinners know they will be judged, that they are guilty and deserve to be punished.

As for the believers, relief is flooding their minds, for Christ has returned to deliver them from an evil world, the Antichrist, and great persecution. And they are overcome with joy and gladness, for what they had been praying for, waiting for, and looking for, is finally happening. Their Lord is coming any moment, for He wants to gather His beloved family, and be with them forever!

Then these believers suddenly see Christ! Can you imagine how they feel? For the first time, they see their Savior, Redeemer, and King in all His power and glory. Joy and gladness fill their hearts and praise and thanks fill their mouths. (Job 19:25-27). “I saw One like a Son of Man, clothed in a robe… His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow; and His eyes were like a flame of fire… His voice was like the sound of many waters… out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword and His face was like the sun shining in its strength.” Rev. 1:14-16

Matthew 24:31 – “He will send forth His angels with a great trumpet and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to another.” This is the climax to the events we have been talking about in vss. 3-30. God sends forth His angels to carry out this special assignment of gathering the elect. Then there’s the sound of the trumpet, confirmed by 1 Th. 4:16 – “the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God.” Christ’s 2nd coming, unlike His 1st coming, is not private and quiet but public and loud. God is powerfully and unmistakably proclaiming Christ’s coming, alerting everyone in the whole world that His Son has returned to earth.

The culmination of all these events (Matt. 24:3-31) is the gathering of all believers from all time, those who died and are in heaven, and those left on earth, those who survive great tribulation (Mk. 13:27). We are talking about the resurrection and rapture of believers. 1 Th. 4:17 tells us, “We who are alive and remain (those on earth)will be caught up together with them (those in heaven)in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” The words “caught up” are are also translaed as raptured which is from the Latin “rapere”.

The resurrected and raptured believers are glorified! This is you and I and all believers. “I tell you a mystery: we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet, for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed” (1 Cor. 15:51-52). Not all believers will physically die before Christ’s coming, but we will all be changed, we will all be glorified, we will all be imperishable, we will all become like Jesus Christ (1 Jn. 3:2)! And it’s at the sound of the trumpet (Matt. 24:31 that we are glorified (1 Th. 4:16) – and it happens in a split second, “in the twinkling of an eye.”

Here are several more essential truths about Christ’s coming and the rapture:
1. There are many other Christ coming / rapture passages: Mark 13:27, Lk. 21:28, Jn. 13:1-3, 1 Cor. 15:50-57, 2 Th. 2:1, Rev. 7:9-14. And it’s implied in Matt. 24:13, 40, 42.
2. At Christ’s coming, we are relieved from tribulation (2 Th. 1:9), rescued from wrath (1 Th. 1:10), redeemed from the earth (Lk. 21:28), resurrected into glory (1 Cor. 15:35-44), resting from our labors (Rev. 14:13), reunited with believers (1 Th. 4:14), rewarded by Christ (Rev. 22:12), rejoicing in Christ (1 Th. 5:16), and we will reign with Christ (Rev. 5:20) and forever remain with Him. 1 Th. 4:18

3. The rapture does not take place at a different time than Christ’s coming, but is the initial event, the first thing to occur at His coming. Matt. 24:30-31; 1 Th. 4:15, 17; 2 Th. 2:1
4. For Christians living on earth, seeing Christ in the clouds and instantly being with Him will be the most dramatic, awesome, incredible event to ever happen! Being saved from your sins is great and glorious, but to suddenly see Him and be fully saved, to be immortal, to have a perfect mind, soul, and body, and to be with Christ and your believing friends and loved ones, will be the most amazing and spectacular event to ever occur in your life up until that time!

I am telling you the truth, and it’s what you must know and tell others, that Christ is coming soon to rapture and resurrect all believers, and to bring you to Himself, to Him who loves you far more, infinitely more than anyone else. Be encouraged, be excited, and be looking forward to what God has planned out for you! “Behold, I am coming soon… Behold, I am coming soon… Behold, I am coming soon. ‘Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.’” Rev. 22:7, 12, 21

P.S. What an important subject – the rapture of the church at the coming of Christ!!! That’s why I have written so much about it. Here are several other posts on this topic: #5, #6, #13, #53, #64, #65, #76, #86, #103, #118, #121, #153, #155, #156, #190, #316.

The Eschatological Word of God Is the WORD OF GOD!!!

February 21, 2026 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #354 ~

Why should we want to know what God says about the last days, the end times, our future? Why study God’s eschatological, prophetic word? Because it’s the word of God – and it’s true, supreme, powerful, personal, and relevant! Today, I am looking at these and other truths about God’s word, and they give us good reasons, strong reasons to study eschatology and share it with others. “I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable… I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God.” Acts 20:20, 27

* God’s eschatological word is true, it’s not error, falsehoods, or half-truths. “Your law is truth” (Ps. 119:143). God’s prophetic word is true and fully trustworthy. There are many who doubt it, twist it, allegorize it, or lie about it, saying this portion of Scripture means something other than what it says, or that it has already occurred. But it must be taken in its normal, natural sense, at face value. In Matt. 24, a key prophetic passage, Jesus warns us about false teachers and prophets, those who are not telling the truth (Matt. 24:4, 11, 24). In another end-times’ passage, Paul firmly states, “Let no one in any way deceive you.” 2 Th. 2:3

* God’s eschatological word is altogether true. “The sum of Thy word is truth” (Ps 119:160). The overall meaning of God’s prophetic word is not contradictory, does not change, is consistent, remains the same, and is the truth. And similar to fitting together the pieces of a puzzle to give the whole picture, so too with prophecy. Verses about God’s eschatological word need to be looked at in conjunction with other verses. They should not be examined apart from other verses, in isolation, but must be connected to get the entire eschatological truth, which enables us to know God’s plans for His people. An example is Matt. 24, which can only be fully understood by also looking at passages like Dan. 9:27; Lk. 21; 2 Th. 2:1-8; Rev. 6, 12.

* God’s eschatological word is supreme. Like the rest of God’s word, it too is supreme, it too is inerrant, powerful, and necessary, for it tells you the truth about God and the end-times, and how to live for Him during what will be one of the most difficult times in the history of our world. “You have exalted above all things Your name and Your word” (Ps 138:2). That God’s prophetic word is supreme also means its authoritative, that it has authority, that God has the right and the power to bring it about. What God says He plans to do will happen, and no person or devil can thwart Him, can stop Him from carrying it out. “I am God, and there is no one like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things which have not been done, saying, ‘My purpose will be established, and I will accomplish all My good pleasure.’” Is. 46:9-11, Ps. 33:9-12

* God’s eschatological word is powerful. “Is not My word like fire and like a hammer which shatters a rock?” (Jer. 23:29). Since God is powerful, His word is powerful, and thus He can do all that He says He will do, whether it’s in a person’s life, church, leader, country, or the world. In the future, when His prophetic word is being fulfilled, we will see an amazing and awesome display of His power. In Is. 55, a prophecy passage, God states, “So will be my word which goes forth from My mouth, it will not return to Me empty without accomplishing what I desire” (vs. 11).“The voice of the Lord is powerful.” Ps. 29:4

* God’s eschatological word is instructive. God gives many verses that explain how He wants us to live for Him in these last years leading up to the rapture of the church. We learn that we are to be evangelizing (Matt. 24:14), alert (Matt. 24:42), faithful (Matt. 24:45), discipling (Matt. 28:19-20), having faith (Lk. 18:8), holy (Rom. 13:11-14), standing firm (Eph. 6:13), serving (1 Th. 1:9), waiting for Jesus (1 Th. 1:10), sober (1 Th. 5:6), loving (1 Th. 5:6), having hope (1 Pet. 1:13), unafraid (Rev. 2:10), overcoming (Rev. 12:11), persevering (13:10), and wise (Rev. 13:18). Yes, these verses are always applicable in our lives, but especially so in the context of the end-times and Christ’s return to rapture the church.  

* God’s eschatological word is life-changing. “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17). All Scripture, including God’s eschatological word is life-changing, is transforming. Not learning the truth about the end-times and Christ’s coming will diminish your wisdom, holiness, hope, growth, and fruitfulness. It’s imperative to know what God tells you about the future so you can live in just the way that He wants. “… be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” Rom. 12:1-2

* God’s eschatological word is sanctifying. A foundational chapter in the book of Revelation, that last great prophetic book, is Rev. 4. “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come” (vs. 8). Knowing that Jesus Christ, the Holy One, is coming soon, and that one of His primary purposes is to bring justice to this world should truly motivate you to be holy, pure, and obedient. “Everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” 1 Jn. 3:3, Jn. 17:17, Rom. 13:11-14, 1 Pet. 1:13-16

* God’s eschatological word gives joy, peace, and hope. “Do not let your heart be troubled… I go to prepare a place for you… I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may also be” (Jn. 14:1-3).“God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose… to be conformed to the image of His Son.” (Rom. 8:28-29). These eschatological passages are helpful now, but I believe even more so in the near future when times are extremely tough. Here are several more: Ps. 23:6; Rom. 8:18-25, 15:13; 1 Cor. 1:8-9; 1 Th. 4:13-18; Jude 24-25; Rev. 22:12

* God’s eschatological word is personal. “Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes, and I shall observe it to the end” (Ps. 119:33). God loves you more than you know and, as your Father, He wants to teach you, lead you, and comfort you. Through the Holy Spirit, you are to apply God’s word to your life. “He (Spirit)will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come” (Jn. 16:13). As we see the day of Christ drawing near, when it’s obvious that His coming is at hand, then you will be seeing or hearing of birth pains, false teachers, persecution, and martyrdom, and God’s truths, commands, and promises, including His prophetic word, will have special meaning to you. “He who has ears to hear, let him hear what the Spirit says… To him who overcomes… I will give a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it.” Rev. 2:7

* God’s eschatological word is sufficient. “Behold, I have told you everything in advance” (Mk. 13:23). God did not tell you everything He will do in the future, but everything He wants you to know – and therefore, you should want to know it. Without question, a good understanding of God’s eschatological truth gives you the wisdom you need so you can be His faithful servant in the final years leading up to Christ’s coming.“The unfolding of Your words gives light, it gives understanding to the simple” (Ps. 119:130). God told you about the future in advance because He wants you to know His plans, not at the last minute, and not before it’s too late, but at this time, in the calm before the storm.

* God’s eschatological word is His will, what He purposed and planned to happen in the end-times, at Christ’s coming, and in the kingdom ages. Not all of God’s prophetic will is in His Word, but what is revealed in His Word is what God wants you to know and understand. Here are several verses that speak forth His will: Matt. 24:3-51; Mk. 13:3-23; Lk. 21:3-36; Rom. 8:18-25; 1 Cor. 15:20-28, 35-57; Phil. 2:9-11, 3:21; 1 Th. 4:13-5:10; 2 Th. 1:5-10, 2:1-12; 1 Pet. 1:13-16; Rev. 4-22. “He made know to us the mystery of His will according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth” (Eph. 1:9-11). “Do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Eph. 5:17

God’s eschatological word is a blessing. “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near” (Rev. 1:1-3). These verses, in the introduction to the book of Revelation, should motivate you to study God’s prophetic word and apply it to your life. God wants to bless you, to do you good, to grant you favor, to give you grace, to encourage you, to make you spiritually happy. And one way this happens is by reading, learning, and heeding God’s prophetic word.“Behold, I am coming soon. Blessed is he who heeds the word of the prophecy of this book.” Rev. 22:7, Lk. 11:28

* God’s word, including His eschatological word, is relevant. “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4). God’s word is vital for your life, is what you need today and all the days leading up to when you go to be with Jesus. His word helps you spiritually, mentally, relationally, and emotionally. It gives meaning to what’s going on in your life, your family, the church, and in the world around you. Without it, there’s confusion, fears, worries, worldliness, and questions with no answers. Without it, you will fall into error, be affected by lies, and be led astray. More than that, when the times are really troubling, know that God’s word is the truth and a means to the power you need to live for Him. In the middle of Matt. 24, what I believe is the most important prophecy passage, Jesus states, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away” (Matt. 24:35). God wants you to be convinced that His word, including His eschatological word, is relevant, is necessary, must be read, learned, and followed in these end-times, in the last years of this age.

* God’s eschatological word is eternal. “The word of the Lord endures forever” (1 Pet. 1:25).  Since God is eternal, since He has always existed, then His word is eternal, is everlasting, and His truth, His will, and His purpose endure, continue through all generations, through all the ages – and this includes the truths describing Christ’s coming, the day of the Lord, the Jewish people, and the kingdom ages. When we say eternal, it means God’s eternal work with regards to the eternally lost, those who spend eternity in hell, and to the eternally saved, those who receive eternal life, who at the end of this age will be fully saved, will receive immortal bodies and be eternally worshiping and serving God. And here we are, at the very end of this church age and, more than ever before, we should be looking forward to being with Jesus, our eternal Savior, Lord, and King, and learn all we can from God’s eternal word about the eternal future He has planned out for each one of us. “Every day I will bless You, and I will praise Your name forever and ever.” Ps. 145:2, Jude 24-25

God’s eschatological, prophetic word is essential for your growth, security, hope, fruitfulness, and for God’s glory in the end-times. Now that we are in the final years of this age, it’s all the more imperative that we study it and teach it to others. “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth (2 Tim. 2:15). “I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction” (2 Tim. 4:1-2). “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Tim. 4:7 

P.S. I couldn’t write this blog site if I didn’t believe it was founded, if it was based on the truth of God’s eschatological word. I am so thankful that we have God’s word, that in a sinfully crazy world, we know what is true and false, what is right and wrong. Here is an important example of God’s eschatological truth –“Over 100 New Testament Verses on Christ’s Second Coming.”

Preach the Word in View of Christ’s Appearing and Kingdom

October 4, 2025 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #342 ~

Three of the last four posts have focused on preaching the gospel of the kingdom (338, 339, 341). Jesus Christ is coming back soon to establish His kingdom on earth, and we know that because we live in the end-times. Therefore, these three lessons about God’s kingdom are critically important. That’s why eschatology, the study of last things, is a major doctrine at this time in history. Christ’s coming and kingdom comprise a comprehensive truth about the future that must be fully and clearly taught so that it’s fixed in the hearts of all believers.

A church’s teaching must focus on Christ’s death and resurrection, our spiritual growth, and the church age, but should also include truths about being glorified and reigning with Christ in the kingdom ages. We need to know about God’s love, holiness, sovereignty, justification, sanctification, but we also need hope, and therefore must preach and promote doctrines describing our glorious future with Christ and all the saints in heaven and on earth. 

The book of Acts emphasizes the preaching of the gospel of the kingdom of God, signifying that it’s a primary purpose of the church. Acts 1 starts off by summarizing Jesus’ teaching during His last 40 forty days on earth. He was “speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God” (vs. 3), which would have been both the spiritual kingdom (the church), and the physical kingdom. It’s vital that we know this, and imitate Jesus by doing the same.

Jesus taught His disciples about the entire kingdom of God. He wanted them and us to understand the whole of our Christian life in the context of God’s kingdom, and to then tell people this good news of His death and resurrection, the church age, and the kingdom ages. To live rightly for God, we must have an eternal perspective, God’s great, grand, glorious plan of an eternal life with His Son.

In Acts 3:21, Peter tells us that Christ will return to bring about the “period of restoration of all things”, which speaks of the millennial kingdom. Acts 8:12 says that Philip was “preaching the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ.” In Acts 14:22, Paul instructs his disciples, “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” Paul is talking about suffering for God during this life, and then entering His heavenly and physical kingdom.

In Acts 15:13-18, James quotes from Amos 9:11 to let us know that Gentiles will also be part of God’s coming kingdom. “I will return… I will rebuild its ruins, and I will restore it, so that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, all the Gentiles who are called by My name.” Acts 19:9 states that Paul was “speaking out boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading them about the kingdom of God”. Surely, he was speaking about God’s kingdom from a present and eternal perspective. He told them the good news about the present and future reign of Christ in our lives, and His future reign over this world.

Paul is talking to the Ephesians elders (Acts 20:17-38), and what he taught them is for all elders to understand, model, and teach. He wanted them to know that he had declared to believers everything that “was profitable”, that He “went about preaching the kingdom”, and that he taught them “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:20, 25, 27). Equating these three phrases makes it quite clear that God wants us to know and preach the totality of our eternal life, from being justified to being sanctified to being glorified to reigning with Christ in His coming kingdom.

The last chapter of Acts says, “Paul… was… solemnly testifying about the kingdom of God and trying to persuade them concerning Jesus… He stayed two full years… preaching the kingdom of God and teaching concerning the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Acts 28:23, 31). In this conclusion to Acts, this accurate church history, Paul was teaching people about Jesus and His kingdom. I hope you are realizing that God wants His people to always be occupied with the big picture, the person of Jesus Christ and His kingdom. As in the first verses of Acts (Acts 1:3-11), so too in the final verses of Acts, the focus is on Jesus Christ and God’s kingdom.

What does Paul tell Timothy in his last letter? “I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word…” (2 Tim. 4:1-2). The “appearing” refers to Christ’s coming, that point in time when we are glorified and our 3-part salvation is complete. The “kingdom” refers to the visible, kingdom age when we are with Christ and are reigning with Christ (Lk. 21:28, 31). To all believers, Christ’s appearing and kingdom must be in view, must always be on their hearts.

A believer must not be spiritually static, stagnant, or stuck in the present, or think that he is. He must see the present in light of the future, must have the whole of his eternal life in mind. He must know that he was justified and is being sanctified and will be glorified, and then will enter the kingdom – and he should be longing for it. He must know that what God is doing in his life, in the church, and in the world, is in light of an incredibly amazing future. He must know that he is on a journey, that God is leading and directing him and all believers to the end of this age, to Christ’s coming, and to be glorified, and to the kingdom ages, to when Christ is supremely glorified and we are reigning with Him. Ps. 72:19, Hab. 2:14

A pastor must not forget the hope that he and all believers have. that we will soon and forever be with Jesus Christ. A pastor must remember his primary purpose, to preach God’s word in view of Christ’s appearing and kingdom, whether his teaching is Spirit planned, Spirit prompted, a sentence or two, an entire message, a series of messages, or whether it’s a song, closing verse, benediction, or in a private conversation, etc. To rightly do this, a pastor must diligently study the end-times, Christ’s coming, the Jewish people, the kingdom ages, Isaiah, Daniel, Matt. 24, Luke 21, 1 Th. 4-5, 2 Th. 1-2, Revelation, etc. Then what is in his heart will come out of his mouth – he will declare the whole counsel of God, he will preach God’s word in view of Christ’s appearing and kingdom.

“Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts, the whole earth is full of His glory” (Isaiah 6:3). “Now 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. It’s extremely encouraging and motivating knowing that we belong to the greatest royal family of all time, and that we are children of the King. Here are two more posts on the kingdom: “They Kingdom Come, Thy Will be Done”, and “Christ’s Kingdom is Coming.”

Why Do Christians Die?

September 13, 2025 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #340 ~

When someone dies, there’s always the “why” question? Why did the person die, what was the cause of death? If it was homicide, they ask why did the killer murder him, what was his motive? But why do Christians die? This is a such an important question. And I am not talking about physical reasons, like sickness, old age, an accident, drugs, war, murder, or assassination. I am talking about spiritual reasons. That is, why does God want His children to die? What are His reasons for the death of a believer? What does God tell us in His word?

His time on earth was finished. “All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be” (Ps. 139:17). “His days are determined… his limits You have set” (Job 14:5). God had decided in eternity past the exact number of days the believer was to live on this earth. They had been predetermined by God and they had come to an end. This believer’s time on earth was over, and God had to bring him home, not one day sooner or one day later.

His work on earth was finished. “I brought You glory on earth by completing the work that You gave Me to do” (Jn. 17:4). “David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, fell asleep” (Acts 13:36). All the work God wanted the believer to do was done. When a believer leaves earth and goes to heaven, then we must conclude that his work on earth was completed and there was nothing more for him to do. The believer went through death’s door to get to heaven, and there his eternal work for God continues in a greater, more glorious way.

To be at home in heaven with His Father. “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His godly ones” (Ps. 116:15). God the Father wanted His child to come home, for He knew it was better that he be with Him in heaven than with us on earth. It’s imperative that we see a believer’s death from God’s perspective, for while we may have wanted the believer to stay, God wanted him to go, and to be with Him in heaven. And who are we to argue with God?

To be with Jesus and see His 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 which You have given Me” (Jn. 17:24). On earth, the believer is not physically with Jesus, but now he is in heaven and is literally with Him. The believer’s eyes are opened wide and he can clearly see Jesus’ great glory, which is on full display. Like never before, the believer experiences His love, joy, holiness, power, kindness, wisdom, and majesty. Why would we not be glad that he is in heaven? Why would we not want the believer to be with Jesus and know the wonderful joys and pleasures of heaven? “In Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” Psalm 16:11

To be with other believers in heaven. “Aaron will be gathered to his people” (Num. 20:24). A believer has family and friends on earth, but his death results in him being with them and others who had gone to heaven before him. This believer is now with ones in heaven who love him and whom he loves, and whom he has missed. Think about the intimate and perfect fellowship this believer is now having with other Christians. “Who is our hope or joy or crown of exultation? Is it not even you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus?” 1 Thess. 2:19

To be taken away from evil. “The righteous man perishes, and no one takes it to heart; and devout men are taken away, while no one understands. For the righteous man is taken away from evil, He enters into peace” (Is. 57:1-2). This world, led by the devil and evildoers, is a very wicked place, and it’s filled with pride, hate, greed, war, crime, corruption, racism, immorality, injustice, persecution, and much more. To die is a great blessing for the believer, for he is finally and forever freed from the devil, this evil world, and from all temptation and sin.

To be free from physical pain. “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, crying or pain” (Rev. 21:4). What a comforting truth – the believer who just went to heaven is totally free from physical ailments, from aches, pains, sickness, tiredness, and weakness. On earth he lived in an earthly tent, in a physical body afflicted and scourged with physical struggles (2 Cor. 5:1-5). Jonathan Edwards said it this way, “When a godly man dies, he rises from all remains of spiritual death, and comes into a state of perfect life. This body is like a prison to the soul, it exceedingly clogs, and hinders, and cramps it in its spiritual exercisers and comfort. When a saint dies, the soul is released from this prison, this grave and comes into a state of glorious freedom and happiness.”

To rest from his labors on earth. “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on, so that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow with them” (Rev. 14:13). The believer was on earth working for the Lord and this was good work, and it was hard, tiring, wearing, but rewarding (Col. 3:23-24). Now he is in heaven, and he is still working for the Lord, but it’s no sweat, no stress, no aches, and he never gets tired. His deeds follow him in that his heavenly work is related to his rewarding earthly work, and more than ever, it’s productive, fulfilling, and God-glorifying. Luke 19:11-19

To be able to perfectly worship the Lord. “How blessed are those who dwell in Your house! They are ever praising You” (Ps. 84:4). The believer in heaven is finally, fully, and always able to love God with all his heart, mind, soul, and strength. Since he sins no more, since his relationship with God is perfect, than he perfectly knows God’s love, perfectly loves God, and is joyfully and wholeheartedly worshiping Him. “Now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known.” 1 Cor. 13:12

To be in heaven with Jesus is gain. “To live is Christ, and to die is gain… to be with Christ is very much better” (Phil. 1:21-23). It is much better for the believer to be in heaven than on earth. In heaven, he has no pain, sin, sickness, sadness, tiredness, weakness, worries, fears, conflicts, difficulties, or trials. His character is pure and holy; he is able to wholly love and worship God; he is full of goodness and joy; he is with friends he knew on earth. Most importantly, the believer is with Jesus, his best friend, and as they are together, there is great joy and love and fellowship. Just think, the believer you know, the believer you spent time with on earth, is now in the very presence of Jesus, “blameless with great joy.” Jude 24-25

To instruct believers still living on earth. “The day of one’s death is better than the day of one’s birth. It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, because that is the end of every man, and the living takes it to heart” (Eccl. 7:2-4). A believer’s death is to instruct us that life on earth is short, is but a vapor (James 4:14). It is to remind us that while we are alive, God has work for us to do, and now’s the time to do it. And it is to wake us up, to alert us to the fact that our last day on earth is coming soon, and then we will be with Jesus.  

To instruct unbelievers living on earth. “Do you suppose that these Galileans were greater sinners than all other Galileans because they suffered this fate? I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all perish” (Lk. 13:2-3). The death of a person is to sober up the sinner. It is to remind and warn him that he will die, and if he doesn’t repent, then when he dies, he will perish, he will be punished in the everlasting lake of fire (Rev. 20:15). He must realize his need to turn from his sin before it’s too late, before he dies and has no more time to repent and be saved. He must believe that Jesus is the only answer, that only He died to pay for his sins, was punished by His Father for his sins, and then rose again. “Christ died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring you to God” (1 Pet. 3:18). “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him, will not perish but will have eternal life.” John 3:16

To be in the house of the Lord. “Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Ps. 23:6). The believer that died is in the best place in the universe, the house of the Lord. And he’s not a guest, not just passing through, but is living there in his heavenly home – and it’s infinitely better than his earthly home. The Lord’s home is holy, joyful, peaceful, beautiful, clean, comfortable, and the perfect temperature – it’s the perfect place. The recently relocated believer is not in some far off corner of the universe, but in heaven with Jesus Himself. “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places… I go to prepare a place for you… that where I am, there you may be also.” John 14:1-3

To bring glory to God!!! “Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever” (Rev. 7:12). This is what all these angels are saying when they see all these believers before the throne worshiping and glorifying God. Believers in heaven will be glorifying God like never before, along with all the angels. “I will give thanks to You, O Lord my God, with all my heart and will glorify Your name forever.” Psalm 86:12

Consider these truths that convey God’s perspective about the death and future of a believer. You may be grieving and have strong feelings about his death, and understandably so, especially a loved one. But God does not want your grieving to be overwhelmed with sadness – there must be a gladness from God that is mixed in, that sweetens your tears, that flavors your soul with joy, and stirs you to praise your precious Lord. These truths give you hope about the future and, in particular, that you will again and forever see and be with loved ones and friends. 

That we live in the end-times means Christ is coming soon, and there may be many people now living on earth who are alive when He returns. Those still alive is that remnant of God’s people who won’t physically die but “will be caught up together with them (believers who physically died) in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” (1 Th. 4:17-18). These raptured believers will likely know many believers who died because of birth pains (wars, earthquakes, famines, plagues) and the great tribulation (Matt. 24:28). All these truths are especially relevant for last-days’ believers who survive the Antichrist’s great persecution. “The one who endures to the end (of this age), he will be saved (raptured and glorified).” Matthew 24:13

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26

P.S. I have been to many memorial services, and most pastors focus on the past, on the life of the believer. Yes “the memory of the righteous is a blessing,” but the pastor’s job is to also give hope, to share with the people what God says in His word about our glorious future. Here are two articles to read: “Heavenly Verses That Speak About Your Glorious Future”, and “You Have to Have Hope!”

Seeing the Entirety of Your Salvation

August 16, 2025 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #338 ~

It was a discovery, it was a special find of an invaluable truth, a spiritual treasure I had never seen before. It was something I had missed in my 50+ years as a Christian. But I was clearly seeing it on the pages of God’s word, it was in plain sight, it was God-revealed and obvious.

What am I talking about? What is this discovery? It’s that the New Testament writers, in just a handful of verses, and not a few times, repeatedly spoke about the whole, the totality of our salvation, that we were justified, are being sanctified, and will be glorified. These truths were not new to me – I learned them when I was first saved, but that they were collectively and continually talked about in just a few verses or less was an amazing spiritual treasure.

It became clear to me that God wants Christians to keep thinking about the big picture of our 3-part salvation, and of our eternal life, that we see our Christian life from being born again to eternity future. God also wants us to share the whole gospel message with the lost like Jesus, who was “proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom” (Matt. 4:23), and Paul who “went about preaching the kingdom’’ (Acts 20:25). This truth about understanding the entirety of our life is especially important for pastors, for they need to teach it in their churches.

There are numerous examples of this whole of salvation message in the New Testament, and we looked at a many of them last week: Rom. 5:1-3, 8:30; 1 Cor. 1:7-9, 11:26, 15:20-23; Eph. 1:7-12, 1:13-14; Phil. 1:6; Col. 1:4-5, 3:3-4; 1 Thess. 1:9-10. Today we will look at several more:  

* Philippians 3:8-11 – “I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord… not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God… that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection… in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.” Here is salvation in its entirety: 1) knowing Christ, being righteous; 2) knowing Christ and pressing on (Ph. 3:12-14); and 3) attaining to the resurrection from the dead, being physically transformed (Ph. 3:20-21)! It’s clear that knowing Christ, having a relationship with Him or, as it’s also stated, experiencing eternal life, is the central theme of our salvation. “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ.” Jn. 17:3

* 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17 – “If we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Him… we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep… the Lord Himself will descend from heaven… then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” The believers were living a godly life and being persecuted, and were worried they had missed Christ’s coming. Paul assures them that this was not so by reminding them of His resurrection – that since we are in Christ, we too will be raised from the dead, we too will be glorified, and this happens at His coming! The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the key to being spiritually saved in the past, to living for Him in the present, and to being physically saved in the future. “… in Christ all will be made alive.” 1 Cor. 15:20-23

* Titus 2:11-14 – “The grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus.” Our salvation is again summed up in three parts. Those who repent of their sins and believe that Christ appeared to die and rise again to pay for their sins will: 1) be saved, be justified; 2) be living a holy life, be sanctified, and 3) see Christ when He appears in glory, and be glorified!

* Hebrews 9:27 – “Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him.” The reason we can be justified, sanctified, and glorified is because of what Christ does for us at His 1st and 2nd comings. 1) He appeared to die and pay for our sins, to spiritually save us, and 2) He will appear again to physically save us, to give us a spiritual body! Might we be excitedly waiting for Him!

* 1 Peter 1:3-4 – “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who… has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you.” This too speaks of our 3-part salvation: 1) we were born again, born of the Spirit; 2) we have a living hope – as we serve God on earth, we should be expecting Christ to return to take us to heaven; and 3) at the revelation of Christ, we will receive a heavenly, imperishable, undefiled, eternal inheritance! 1 Pet. 1:13, Col. 3:23-24, Rev. 22:12

* 1 John 2:20, 27-28 – “… the anointing which you received from Him abides in you… His anointing teaches you about all things… abide in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not shrink away from Him in shame at His coming.” Again, we read about our salvation in three ways: 1) we were anointed by the Spirit, we were spiritually saved; 2) now we are to abide in Christ, to have a close relationship with Him; and 3) we should be confident of our relationship with Christ and at His appearance, be thrilled to see Him! 1 Thess. 4:15-18

* 1 John 3:1-3 – “See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God and such we are… Beloved now we are children of God… When He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him.” Again, you are told three things about your salvation: 1) you were first called a child of God when you became a child of God, when you were saved; 2) spiritually speaking you are a child of God, and thus, you are to live like a child of God; and 3) physically speaking you will look like a child of God when Christ appears, for then you will literally see Christ in His glory and be given a body like His. 1 Cor. 15:42-44

* Rev. 1:5-7 – “Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first born of the dead… To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood – and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God… Behold, He is coming with the clouds and every eye will see Him.” Jesus Christ, motivated by love, died on a cross, paid for our sins, and was raised from the dead. His 3-fold purpose was: 1) to release us from our sins, to forgive us, to make us a royal priesthood (1 Pet. 2:9), to bring us into a spiritual kingdom, the church (Col. 1:13-14); 2) for us to serve Him as priests; and 3) to bring us into His physical kingdoms, the millennial and eternal kingdoms.

There are three parts of our salvation, our past justification which happened at a point in time, our present sanctification occurring during our life on earth, and our future glorification happening at a point in time, at the outset of Christ’s coming. Justification results in being delivered from the deadly penalty of sin, sanctification from the spiritual power of sin, and glorification from the very presence of sin. 

Once we are glorified, our salvation is complete, which is what the New Testament writers kept telling us. They wanted us to know what God was, and is, and will be doing in us. Once you are completely saved, which occurs at Christ’s coming, then you will be fit and ready to wholly worship and serve Christ in the next age, the millennial kingdom age. Eph. 1:20-21, 2:10, 18-20; Rev. 5:10

All that we’ve talked about is an incredible, supernatural, eternal work of God – and it’s for your good, the good of others, and the glory of God. “From Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.” (Rom. 11:36). Next week, we will look at a number of verses that talk about the gospel of the kingdom (Matt. 4:23). You will learn that the gospel is not just good news about salvation, but is also about your eternal future, the kingdom ages.

P.S. The NT writers were teaching the entirety of our salvation so that you too would see it, be encouraged by it, and be motivated to tell others, both saved and lost. I suggest you read these posts which are similar to this one: “An Overview of Your Christian Life” and “Your Entire Christian Life.”

He Went Home to Heaven

July 16, 2025 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #335 ~

As many of you may have heard, John MacArthur, a humble and faithful servant of God, and a gifted Bible teacher, was taken home to heaven this past Monday (7/14/2025). John “fought the good fight”, “finished the course”, and “kept the faith” (2 Tim. 4:7-8). He is now experiencing the second half of Phil. 1:21 – “To live is Christ, and to die is gain“, and of Ps. 23:6 – “Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

I believe that John, by God’s grace, was the most well known and most effective teacher of God’s word these past 50+ years. Through his Sunday messages, books, commentaries, and conferences, John was used by God to reach and teach millions of people in this country and all over the world – and that includes my wife and I.

We first started listening to his teaching tapes in 1996, and then began reading his books. I also attended a number of Shepherd Conferences, in 1997, 1998, and several in the early 2000’s. There is no doubt that these helped me become a better pastor and a more effective teacher of God’s word. My wife and I met him on a number of occasions, and he was very kind and gracious to us, even writing many encouraging letters to us. More than anyone else, John helped me in my ministry, and personally helped my wife and I as well. We are very grateful to God for his love, his life, and his ministry. 

Throughout the years, most of his teaching was from the New Testament, his primary purpose being to preach the gospel and build up the church. He taught on all kinds of subjects, including our hope. An excellent message on being with Jesus is linked here – The Lord’s Greatest Prayer, Part 8. It is from John 17:24-26. It is also written out in the article’s section on this blog site so you can read it, and there is a link to where you can listen to it. I believe you will find it to be a real spiritual blessing to your life. I would also encourage you to check out this link to Grace to You, where you can download and listen to all his taped messages, a treasure trove of truth, from the past 50+ years. 

I want to suggest something else for you to consider – purchasing the entire set of John’s commentaries of the New Testament. This NT library will be a great help to you in having a clear understanding of all the NT’s book. It is my favorite, most helpful resource, and I believe would be incredibly beneficial to you as well. Having a good grasp of the truth of God is well worth your money. Psalm 119:72

Below is a note my wife wrote to some of her friends about John – I believe you will find it most encouraging. 

_____________________________________

From Marsha ~

Dear Ones ~

We are so very grateful to God for John MacArthur!  What a wonderful man of God!  God took him home to heaven yesterday, July 14, 2025.  We first began to listen to his teaching in 1996, and then started reading his books, and also became members of his tape library in order to listen to many, many sermons over all these years since.  He has been like a spiritual father to me since he was such a gifted Bible teacher and a kind friend.  We have listened to/watched hundreds of his thousands of sermons!  At the GTY.org website you can find all of them there!  We not only learned from him but also had the blessing of knowing him personally over the years.  He encouraged us when we ended up leaving the Maryland area so Steve could preach/teach the Bible properly, which he did for 26 years here in Florida.  John was always very kind to us and our whole family in many ways since we first met him in 1997, with letters and notes and kind greetings when we saw him at conferences!  Truly, he was God’s servant as he loved God, His Word, and His people very, very much! 

To honor God and give thanks for John, here below is a link to just one sermon (of many) that I thought you might like.  The Gospel of John chapter 17 has always been a favorite of mine, especially verse 24.  I thought it would be appropriate today and a special encouragement, knowing that John is now THERE!!  He is with Jesus in heaven, indeed his faith has now been made sight!  So, dear ones, please try to take some time to watch and listen to this sermon, and others of John’s as well, as the Lord leads you.  God’s Word is so precious and nourishing to our souls, and there is no better Bible teacher than John MacArthur to help us understand what God means by what He says!  

May God the Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, bless you as you “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” ~ 2 Peter 3:18

“Father, I desire that they also,
whom Thou hast given Me,
be with Me where I am,
in order that they may behold My glory,
which Thou hast given Me;
for Thou didst love Me
before the foundation of the world.”
Jesus’ Words in The Gospel of John 17:24

The Lord’s Greatest Prayer, Part 8
John 17:24–26
Sermon 43-100 – February 14, 2016

_____________________________________

“Teach me, O Lord, the way of Thy statutes,
and I shall observe it to the end.”
Psalm 119:33.

“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 

Present Suffering and Future Glory

March 1, 2025 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #326 ~

Suffering – this is not what the world or your flesh wants, but it is definitely part of God’s plan for Christians. Suffering is for God’s eternal purposes and glory and results in a believer’s eternal glory. I share this with you because it’s true and it’s personal, and because you need to know that we are living in the end-times, and that the persecution of Christians will increase as we get closer to Christ’s coming.

Today, I want to look at some key passages that speak about suffering and glory:
Psalm 22 is about Jesus Christ, that He suffered and died for us and then will be glorified, and the whole world will see His glory. He suffered at His 1st coming – “A band of evildoers has encompassed Me; they pierced My hands and My feet. I can count all My bones…”, but He will be glorified at His 2nd coming – “You who fear the Lord, praise Him, all you descendants of Jacob glorify Him, and stand in awe of Him.” Vss. 16-17, 23

Philippians 2:7-11 tells us that Jesus Christ humbled Himself, that He “became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” Then “God highly exalted and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name… so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow… and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” Christ is our #1 example – and He suffered extremely so, and will be supremely glorified. Hebrews 12:2-3

1 Peter 1:10-12 speaks of the “sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow.” 1 Pet. 5:1 tells us that Peter was a “witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glories to follow.” Christ will be greatly glorified and all believers will share in that glory. Col. 3:4 elaborates on this – “When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.” This is so encouraging, for we will soon be with Christ, and will join Him in experiencing the wonderful glory of God.

Matthew 5:10-12 wants us to know that all believers who suffer, who are insulted, maligned, and “persecuted for the sake of righteousness”, will inherit the kingdom of heaven and be greatly rewarded. So it’s suffering first and then receiving and experiencing God’s amazing grace and glory.

Romans 5:2-3 instructs us to rejoice in two things – we are to “exult in hope of the glory of God” and we are to “exult in our tribulations”. Tribulation and suffering come first, occurring during our life on earth. And in heaven and in the ages to come, we will share in God’s incredible glory. All of us should have this hope, this expectation of glory, “because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit.” Rom. 5:5

Romans 8:18-39 – The first verse sums up the main message: “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” Life may be extremely difficult, but our temporary sufferings are nothing compared to the eternal glory we will experience after our life on this earth. Vss. 19-39 give more details about God’s sovereign working with regards to our suffering, and that we can “overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us”, and that nothing “will be able to separate us from the love of God.” Vss. 37, 39

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 – “Momentary light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison.” This theme is repeated, that our suffering, our problems, troubles, and trials result in receiving God’s glory. But our suffering is momentary, lasting only a short time compared to an eternity of glory. And our suffering isn’t that difficult compared to the weight, the greatness of the glory God gives us. Without question, it’s really worth it to suffer for God, for Jesus Christ.

2 Thessalonians 1:4-10. As Christians, we suffer, we go through afflictions, even great afflictions, for God’s glory and our glory. Not long from now, “He (Christ) comes to be glorified in His saints on that day, and to be marveled at among all who have believed.” This happens at Christ’s return, and is when our salvation is complete, for Christ is “glorified in His saints,” meaning that we receive new bodies, ones like Christ’s, ones that are powerful, immortal, glorious, and spiritual (1 Cor. 15:42-44). Suffering for Christ results in being spiritually and physically glorified, which is what God planned for us in eternity past. Romans 8:28-30

1 Peter 1:3-9 is one of the best big picture passages in the Bible. It says that a necessary part of life is suffering, is going through various and distressing trials, is being “tested by fire” – but it’s only for a little while. And we have hope, for we know we will get through it and receive an unbelievable inheritance. Indeed, suffering for Christ will “result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Pet. 1:7). Two keys to having hope and receiving this glory are loving God, and faith, believing God and His promises. 1 Peter 1:8

1 Peter 5:10 again communicates this truth of suffering and glory. “After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” Yes, you will suffer, but you will also witness and experience God’s eternal glory. In the meantime, God is sanctifying you, strengthening, perfecting, and molding you into Christ’s image. All of this is by God’s grace, and by His promises and power working in your life. 2 Peter 1:2-4

The Christian life is knowing God and His truth, power, love, goodness, and much more. It’s also being humble, seen by serving, sacrificing, and suffering for Him. Living for God like this results in God being greatly glorified, you being glorified, and you receiving His never-ending glory. 

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.” 1 Peter 4:12-13

As you truly live for Christ, you will suffer for Him. And that’s a good thing, good for God and His glory, and good for you and receiving His glory. Here are two previous posts about suffering and glory – “The Glory of Suffering for Jesus” and “Suffering for Jesus in the End-Times”.

Loving Jesus Now, in the Future, and Forever

December 7, 2024 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Satuday Morning Post #320 ~

About 50 years ago I met an older and godly man named Abe. He was my Sunday School teacher in a small Baptist church in a small NE Iowa town. Never have I met anyone so filled love with love for God, who just beamed with joy, and who spoke so excitedly about being in heaven with Jesus. His example has truly encouraged and motivated me through the years.

There is a clear connection between loving Jesus Christ now and loving Him in the future. As a Christian, you should be looking forward to seeing Jesus in person, and loving the One who loves you far more than anyone else. If you don’t have a close relationship with Jesus, if you are not actively loving Him now, then you are probably not excited about seeing Him and being with Him in heaven. 

So how is your relationship with Jesus? Is He #1 in your life? Is He your best friend? Are you getting good alone-time with Him? Are you telling Him how much you love Him? Do you praise Him and sing to Him with all your heart? Are you like Mary, “seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word?” Remember, “only one thing is necessary” (Lk. 10:39, 42), and that’s being with Jesus, and loving Him and learning from Him.

If Jesus is first in your life, then you will know His love for you; you will be filled with joy; you will be at peace; you will be perfectly satisfied; you will be loving others; you will be helping Jesus make disciples “to the end of the age” (Matt. 28:19-20); and you will be wanting Him and waiting for Him to take you to Himself and home to heaven.

If you don’t have a strong love for Jesus, if you aren’t doing what He wants you to do, if you aren’t excited that He’s coming again to be with you, then consider these questions:
* Are there sins that have captured your heart, that have taken hold in your life, sins you need to confess to God and Christ? Ps. 32:1-5, 1 John 1:5-9
* Are you fleshly, are you loving the things of the world? 1 Cor. 3:1-4, 1 Jn. 2:15-17
* Are you remembering what Christ did for you at His 1st coming? Do you know what He did for you on the cross, that He died to pay for all your sins? Are you regularly taking communion? Do you realize how much God has forgiven you? Do you think often about Christ’s love for you? Ps. 86:12-13; 1 Cor. 11:23-26; 1 Jn. 4:10,19

* Do you understand the truths about God redeeming you, justifying you, forgiving you, reconciling you, adopting you, and sealing you with the Spirit? Eph. 1:3-14
* Are you in a solid church, in a good, Christ-is-coming, Bible-preaching church? 2 Tim. 4:1-2 – “In view of His appearing and His kingdom… preach the word.” 1-2 Thess.
* Are you having good fellowship with other Christians? Heb. 10:24-25
* Do you have good Christian friends that you are accountable to and that are an encouragement to you? Prov. 18:24b, Rom. 16:3-16, Col. 4:7-15
* Do you know what Christ will do for you at His 2nd coming? Are you filled with hope? Do you understand the glorious future God has planned out for you? Do you realize that “to live is Christ” but “to die is gain,” that being with Jesus in heaven is better than being with Jesus on earth? Rom. 8:18-25, Rom. 15:13

* Do you realize how much Jesus wants to be with you, how much He wants to show you His love in the future and for all eternity? Jesus told you, “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 be also” (Jn. 14:3). Jesus prayed, “Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, for You loved Me before the foundation of the world” (Jn. 17:24). Jesus “died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep, we will live together with Him.” 1 Thess. 5:11

The most important thing in life is knowing God’s love and loving Him! That’s it! And Jesus does not hesitate to correct Christians – “I have this against you, that you have left your first love.” (Rev. 2:4). O, may this not be true of you! “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.” Mk. 12:30, 1 Cor. 16:22

Looking forward to loving Jesus in the future is an important sign that you love Him in the present. So are you wholeheartedly loving Jesus now and excited about loving Him in the future? If you are not sure, then go over the questions I listed, and get some answers; ask God to search you, cleanse you, and instruct you (Ps. 139:23-24); and He will surely revive you. “Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; 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 in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.” Rev. 3:19-20

Finally, remember what Job said, “I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon 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 – I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me” (Job 19:25-27). And say, “Come, Lord Jesus.” Rev. 22:20

P.S. During this Christmas season are we emphasizing the importance of our relationship with Jesus? As you know, this is what is most important. Here are three posts that speak of your love for Jesus and your relationship with Him: “The Rapture, a Love Story”, “Loving the Lord and Longing to See Him”, “Loving God Today, Tomorrow, and Forever.”

The King and His Kingdom

November 16, 2024 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #318 ~

We live in a world divided into all these different countries, and each one has its own leader. But it won’t be long before we see Jesus Christ, the King of kings, return to earth, and He will be its sole leader, and be visibly and powerfully ruling over the entire world. God repeatedly promised that His Son Jesus would be a great King with a glorious Kingdom. Here are some Old Testament verses that are predictive and descriptive of Christ and His kingdom.

2 Sam. 7:12-13 – “I will raise up your descendant… He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of His kingdom forever.” God told us that the coming King would be a descendant of David, and Matt. 1 proves this to be true. We also learn that Jesus’ kingdom will forever display God’s name – His character, purposes, and glory.

Psalm 47:2-3 – “The Lord Most High is to be feared, a great King over all the earth…” The coming King is God, the Lord Most High, and He will be more loving and powerful than any other being in history. He will be the most glorious King ever, and be greatly respected and praised. And He will subdue and rule over every nation on earth.

Isaiah 9:6-7 – “A child will be born to us… The government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace…” The coming King is both God and man. And He’s wise, powerful, holy, just, eternal, and fatherly. And He will bring real peace to the whole world.

Psalm 2 – “… As for Me, I have installed My King upon Zion, My holy mountain…” The leaders of this world are strongly opposed to God and Jesus Christ, and are being warned by Christ that they need to worship Him, or else. But they won’t, and so at the end of this age, Christ will defeat and judge these evil kings and their kingdoms, and then establish His glorious kingdom on this earth.

Many other Old Testament passages speak of the coming King and His Kingdom: Psalm 10:16; Psalm 22:27-28; Psalm 24:7-10; Psalm 29:10-11; Psalm 45:6; Psalm 48:1-3; Psalm 65:8-13; Psalm 67; Psalm 72; Psalm 89:27-29; Psalm 98; Psalm 102:12-22; Psalm 132:10-18; Psalm 145:1-2, 10-13; Isaiah 2:1-4; Jeremiah 10:10; Ezekiel 37:21-28; Daniel 2:44-45; Daniel 7:13-14, 23-27; Micah 5:2-5a; Zeph. 3:14-17; Zech. 14:1-9

The New Testament also tells us about Christ the King and His Kingdom.
* Matthew 1-2 speaks about the ancestry of the King, the birth of the King, the birthplace of the King, the mother of the King, the name of the King, the purpose of the King, the worship of the King, the enemies of the King, and the escape of the King. 
* Luke 1-2 talks about Jewish believers who were excitedly looking forward to seeing the King and His blessing upon Israel. There were Zechariah, Elizabeth, Mary, Simeon, and Anna.

* Luke 19:32-38 – Many Jews were saying this as Christ entered Jerusalem – “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord.” They hoped He would set up His earthly kingdom but they were mistaken, for His primary purpose at His 1st coming was to die to save people from their sins. At His 2nd coming, Christ will rapture the church, judge the world, save a remnant of Jews, and establish Himself as King over this earth. 
* John 19:37 – Jesus told Pilate, “You say correctly that I am a King.” Jesus admitted to Pilate that He was a King, but His goal at that time was not to rule as a King but to be a Savior, to die on a cross and be raised again to save people from sin and from death. 

* Matthew 24:3-31 describes in detail what has to happen before the coming of the King. He tells His disciples that there will be wars, earthquakes, famines, plagues, increasing lawlessness, false teaching, betrayal, the desecration of the Jewish temple, the revealing and rule of the Antichrist, great persecution of Jews and Christians, preaching the gospel to the nations, and signs in the heavens. Lk. 21:7-24; 1 Th. 4:13-18; Rev. 6:1-17, 13:3-18
* Matthew 19:27-28 tells us that in the “regeneration”, the rebirth of the earth in the coming age, Jesus’ disciples will reign with Him over the nation of Israel.

So what do you need to know and do before Christ returns?
1. Learn from God’s word what needs to happen before Christ returns. Mark 13:23
2. Pray for the coming of Christ and His kingdom. Matt. 6:9-10 – “Our Father, who are in heaven, Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
3. Be diligently doing the work God wants you to do. Eph. 2:10
4. Be alert for you don’t know when Christ is coming. And be ready for Christ, watching for Christ, and looking forward to being with Christ. Matt. 24:42-51

Here is a summary of the millennial kingdom age:
1. Jesus Christ will reign over the entire earth, over all the nations. Ps. 72:8
2. Christ will reign from the city of Jerusalem. Ps. 48:1-2, Zech. 14:9
3. The earth will be restored, be renewed, be remodeled. Acts 3:21, Rom. 8:20-21
4. The earth will be filled with the knowledge of the Lord. Isaiah 11:9
5. The earth will be filled with the glory of God. Ps. 72:19
6. This part of Christ’s kingdom will exist for exactly 1,000 years. Rev. 20:1-7

7. The heavens will be glad and the earth will rejoice during this kingdom age. Ps. 96:11
8. The gospel will be preached to all nations, and many will be saved. Ps. 96:2, 98:2-3
9. Israel will be greatly blessed as a nation, and God’s blessing on them will result in the entire world being blessed. Is. 12, Is. 60
10. Every knee will bow to Christ, and every tongue confess that He is Lord. Phil. 2:9-11
11. The kings and the nations of the world will serve Christ. Ps. 72:11
12. The millennial kingdom will not be an evil age, but a good age. Hab. 2:14

13. Agriculturally, the earth will be extremely fruitful and productive. Ps. 65:9-13
14. The apostles will rule with Christ over the nation of Israel. Matt. 19:27-29
15. Believers will reign with Christ. 1 Cor. 6:2-3; Rev. 5:12, 20:6
16. Believers will be gifted and empowered to carry out Christ’s work. Luke 19:16-19
17. Jerusalem will be a holy city, and no one will be weeping or crying. Is. 65:19
18. Christ will have mercy on the poor and needy, and help them. Ps. 72:13

19. People on earth during the kingdom age will live a very long time. “The one who does not reach the age of 100 will be thought accursed.” Is. 65:20
20. Animals will get along, for the “wolf will dwell with the lamb.” Is. 11:6-9
21. Even children and snakes will get along, for “the weaned child will put his hand in the viper’s den.” Is. 11:8
22. Satan will be released at the end of this age, gather sinners to himself, lead a rebellion against Christ, be quickly defeated, and then be cast into the lake of fire. Rev. 20:7-10
23. Christ will abolish all rule, authority, and power; all things will be subject to Him; and He will cast death and Hades into the lake of fire. 1 Cor. 15:24-28, Rev. 20:11-15
24. The millennial kingdom will be followed by the eternal kingdom. Rev. 21:1

Do you see where we are now at and where we are going? We are living in the end-times and God wants you to be fully informed about these last years before Christ’s coming and His 1000-year kingdom. He wants you to be encouraged, to have hope, to be looking forward to seeing and being with Christ and worshiping and serving Him in the coming kingdom age.

“Grace to you and peace, from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood – and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father – to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him.” Revelation 1:4-7a

P.S. One of my favorite subjects is the coming kingdom age. I like it and I need it because it gives me hope, and you need hope too. Here are two other posts on this important subject of the millennial kingdom age: “The Coming Kingdom Age – 1000 Years of Glory”, “The KING of Kings is Coming.”

Prophetic Psalms About the King and His Kingdom

September 7, 2024 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #312 ~

It’s obvious that we live in the end-times and, therefore, it is essential to learn what God wants us to know about the coming of Christ and the future He has in store for us. God has given us a good outline of what will be taking place along with instructions as to how we are to live – and He has given us hope.

One book that is often overlooked when it comes to studying the future is the Psalms. (Yes, the Psalms was written to the Jews, but it’s also written to you.) My purpose in this post, and in the related article, “The Psalms and Prophecy”, is to give you an extensive list of prophecy verses from the Psalms that I am convinced will be very helpful to you. I encourage you to read them, share them with others, and use them as a basis for more extensive study.

Here are the subjects that are covered: 1) The Salvation of the Jews; 2) The Judgment of the Wicked; 3) The King and His Kingdom; 4) The Land; 5) The Millennial Kingdom; 6) Your Future Relationship with God. In this post, I have listed out only some of the verses. Article 55 is much longer and more detailed for it contains my complete list of verses. 

1) The Salvation of the Jews: God promised to save a remnant of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. This chosen race, this royal priesthood, this holy nation will be living in Israel, helping repopulate the earth, and worshiping and serving Christ the King. (Is. 45:17, Jer. 31:31-34, Dan. 9:24, Rom. 11:25-27). Ps. 98:2-3 – “The Lord has made known His salvation; He has revealed His righteousness in the sight of the nations. He has remembered His lovingkindness and His faithfulness to the house of Israel.” Ps. 111:9 – “He has sent redemption to His people; He has ordained His covenant forever; holy and awesome is His name.” Ps. 130:7-8 – “For with the Lord is lovingkindness, and with Him is abundant redemption, and He will redeem Israel from all his iniquities.”

2) The Judgment of the Wicked: God is most holy, and He will not let the guilty go free. All the wicked who have ever dwelt on this earth, those who have not repented of their sins and turned to God for mercy, will perish, will be righteously and eternally punished. (Is. 24; Matt. 24:41, 46; Rev. 7-8, 16, 20:15). Psalm 1:6 – “The way of the wicked will perish” (6). Ps. 9:5 – “You have destroyed the wicked, You have blotted out their name forever and ever.” Ps. 11:6 – “Upon the wicked He will rain snares; fire and brimstone and burning wind will be the portion of their cup.” Ps. 81:15 – “Those who hate the Lord would pretend obedience to Him, and their time of punishment would be forever.” Ps. 83:17-18 – “Those who hate You have exalted themselves” (2). Let them be ashamed and dismayed forever.” Ps. 92:7-8 – “When the wicked sprouted up like grass and all who did iniquity flourished, it was only that they might be destroyed forevermore.”

3) The King and His Kingdom: In a world filled with evil and evil rulers, we must be convinced that the King will be coming soon, and that He will establish His kingdom on this earth. The Psalms doesn’t clearly differentiate the two future kingdoms, the 1000-year kingdom and the eternal kingdom, but we do know that He will be perfectly reigning over a world filled with His glory. (2 Sam. 7:16, Is. 42:1-4, Ez. 27:21-28, Dan. 7:13-14, Zech. 14:9, Rev. 20). Psalm 2:6 – “As for Me, I have installed My King upon Zion, My holy mountain.” Ps. 10:16 – “The Lord is King forever and ever.” Ps. 22:28 – “The kingdom is the Lord’s and He rules over the nations.” Ps. 45:6 – “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.” Ps. 47:2 – “The Lord Most High is to be feared, a great King over all the earth.” Ps. 67 – “Let all the peoples praise You, O God” (3). “Let the nations be glad and sing for joy; for You will judge the peoples with uprightness and guide the nations on the earth” (4). Ps. 102:15-16 – “The nations will fear the name of the Lord and all the kings of the earth Your glory. For the Lord has built up Zion. He has appeared in His glory.”

4) The Land: God promised to Abraham and to all believing Jews the land from the River to the Sea. But more than that, it will be the entire earth. And Christians, as coheirs with Christ, as part of this chosen race, will also inherit the earth. (Gen. 12:1-3; Jer. 32:40-41; Ez. 37:21-22; Matt. 5:5). Psalm 37:29 – “The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever” (29). Ps. 85:1 – “You showed favor to Your land, You restored the captivity of Jacob.” Ps. 105:8-11 – “He has remembered His covenant forever…the covenant… to Israel as an everlasting covenant, saying, ‘To you will I will give the land of Caanan as the portion of your inheritance.’” Ps. 136:16, 21-22 – “To Him… who gave their land as a heritage, for His lovingkindness is everlasting, even a heritage to Israel His servant.”

5) The Millennial Kingdom: We live in a devil-ruled, sin-corrupted world. Not long from now we will live in a Christ-ruled and restored world. There will be justice, peace, love, and glory like we have not seen since the beginning days of this earth. Both the people and the land of this glorious kingdom will be blessed. And believers will be reigning with Christ the King. (Is. 6:3, Hab. 2:14, Acts 3:20-21; Rom. 8:19-22, Phil. 2:9-11, 1 John 5:19, Rev 20:6). Psalm 22:27-28 – “All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations will worship before You. For the kingdom is the Lord’s.” Ps. 47:7-8 – “God is the King of all the earth; sing praises with a skillful psalm. God reigns over the nations.” Ps. 65:8-9 – “They who dwell in the ends of the earth stand in awe of Your signs; You make the dawn and the sunset shout for joy. You visit the earth and cause it to overflow.” Ps. 72 – “May He judge Your people with righteousness” (2-3). “May He also rule from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth” (7-8). “He will have compassion on the poor and needy” (13). “… may the whole earth be filled with His glory” (17-19). Ps. 96 – “Sing to the Lord, all the earth” (1). “Proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day. Tell of His glory among the nations” (2-3). Ps. 98 – “All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God” (3-4). “With trumpets and the sound of the horn shout joyfully before the King, the Lord. Let the sea roar and all it contains” (5-8).Ps. 102 – “You will arise and have compassion on Zion; for it is time to be gracious to her” (13). “The nations will fear the name of the Lord and all the kings of the earth Your glory” (15-16). Ps. 145:12 – “Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures throughout all generations.”

6) Your Future Relationship with God: Having a loving, continual, never-ending relationship with Jesus Christ is, without question, the best part of your future. Dwelling in His house, seeing His face, being perfectly satisfied, learning from Him, loving Him and being loved by Him – it can’t get any better than this. (Lk. 10:42; Jn. 17:3; Eph. 1:17, 3:18-19; 2 Pet. 1:2.) Psalm 11:7 – “The Lord is righteous, He loves righteousness; the upright will behold His face.” Ps. 16:11 – “In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” Ps. 17:15 – “As for me, I shall behold Your face in righteousness; I will be satisfied with Your likeness when I awake.” Ps. 23:6 – “Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Ps. 63:2-3 – “Thus I have seen You in the sanctuary, to see Your power and Your glory. Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips will praise You.”

What a glorious hope! And you must know this hope, what God has planned out for you in the future, if you are to live rightly for Him in the present. I say this with utmost earnestness, sobriety, and conviction. Way too many Christians are asleep – and they need to know God’s prophetic word and wake up to the times we live in. “You know how to analyze the appearance of the earth and the sky but why do you not analyze this present time?” (Lk. 12:56). “The night is almost gone, and the day is near” (Rom. 13:12). “Therefore, be on the alert” (Matt. 24:42). “… encouraging one another and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Heb. 10:25

Please look at the related article. You will be amazed and excited by how many prophecy verses are found in the book of Psalms!!!

I strongly suggest that you read my three-part series on this subject in the articles section – Prophecy Psalms for You and the Jew – “Part 1“, “Part 2”, “Part 3”. You will find them very instructive and encouraging.

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