Christ's Kingdom and the End Times

Category: Prophecy (Page 2 of 4)

Blog posts about prophecy.

Marv Rosenthal – A Servant of God

January 19, 2022 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #236 ~

Just recently, Marvin Rosenthal, a servant of God, and my friend, went to heaven to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Marv served the Lord for over 60 years. For the first part of that time, Marv was pastoring churches. Then he began leading ministries that proclaimed the gospel, especially to the Jewish people, and that taught about our hope, the glorious future God has in store for every Christian. There’s no doubt that Marv, by the grace of God, affected and impacted countless numbers of people all over the world, and I was one of them. Let me tell you what happened.

In the summer of 1993, a friend gave me a book written by Marv Rosenthal, the Pre-Wrath Rapture of the Church. I had always been interested in Biblical prophecy, and so I read it with great interest – and it made sense, particularly Marv’s view on Christ’s coming and the rapture, which I now know is God’s view. What struck me and my wife the most was the first chapter, which showed Marv’s love for the truth, and his willingness and courage to teach it no matter the cost.

In the summer of 1994, my wife Marsha and I heard that Marv was doing a three-day prophecy conference at Sandy Cove, Maryland, not far from where we lived. We were excited to go and hear him speak, and his subject just happened to be the book of Revelation. Marv never made it through all 22 chapters, but I tell you, I was not disappointed. I loved his teaching, and his history lessons and stories, and that he patiently answered all my questions. In October of 1995, we were thrilled to be able to go back to Sandy Cove and again hear Marv teach on prophecy – and we learned so much.

My wife and I were so thankful that God wanted us to cross paths with Marv. And it was obvious that God had given us a love for Bible prophecy, and that he was using Marv to help us learn key truths about Christ’s coming, and the rapture of the church. Then we started receiving Zion’s Fire, the magazine Marv and His staff put together. It contained important information about end-times’ prophecy as well as truths about the gospel of Christ and the glory of God, along with encouraging stories about their mission work in Jerusalem.

Thanks to God, and to Marv’s example, I was extremely motivated to study Bible prophecy. Much of my free time in the mid to late 1990’s was spent carefully going over Daniel, Matt. 24, Luke 21, 1-2 Thess., and Revelation – I was learning about the end of the age, the 70 weeks of Daniel, great tribulation, the rapture, the Day of the Lord, and the Antichrist. I was growing in my understanding of our God-planned, God-prophesied future, and even taught a weekly Bible study at my church – and it was on the book of Revelation.

One of the biggest highlights of my life was when Marsha and I went on a Zion’s Hope sponsored tour of Israel in the spring of 1998, one led by Marv and his son David. What a phenomenal time, seeing and walking where Jesus lived, taught, and performed miracles. Of course, Marv was the main speaker, and a great speaker and teacher he was, helping us understand the Biblical significance of the places we visited. Then there was that time when we were sitting together with Marv and David on the roof top of our hotel in Petra, Jordan – we will never forget the specialness of that time.  

In 1989, Marv, his wife Marbeth, and David moved to Orlando, Florida where they set up their ministry, Zion’s Hope. Lo and behold, ten years later I was transferred to a church in nearby Tampa. How wise and good of God, for now we saw Marv more often, went to the Holy Land Experience, and attended prophecy conferences. Not only that, but the new church I was helping pastor (Hope Bible Church), began supporting their mission work in Israel. What a blessing that we could support a church located in Jerusalem that was reaching out to Jewish people.

Since Marv lived so close to Tampa, we started having him come to our church to teach an annual prophecy conference, which went on for nearly ten years. Our little church loved Marv and hearing him teach on prophecy. One thing Marsha and I looked forward to was going out to eat and having fellowship with Marv and Marbeth the night before the conference began. Marv was so loving and kind, for he would always ask how we, our children, and our small church were doing. He genuinely cared about us, which meant a lot to us. We also talked about what was happening in the world as it related to prophecy – Marv had so much insight and discernment, and we were thankful that we knew him personally, and could learn from him.

At a couple of those Sunday morning sessions at our church, he talked about being a servant of God, and truly, that was not just how he thought of himself, but how he lived his life. Over the years, I have witnessed it myself. Ever since he was saved, he has sacrificially served the Lord, used his talents and time to advance the cause of Christ, proclaimed the truths of Christ’s 1st coming and 2nd coming, gave glory to God, and helped men like myself. 

More than anyone else, Marv motivated me to serve the Lord by teaching on prophecy. About 12 years ago, I started a prophecy Bible study at our church – it was on the first Wednesday of every month, and it continues on today. I was glad to be in a position where I could keep studying prophecy and keep teaching it – it was good for me, and I am sure for all the people who have come to it over the years. And it was exactly five years ago, January of 2017, that I began this blog site, ChristsKingdom.org. Like Marv, my desire is for people to know what the Bible says about Christ’s coming and His kingdom on earth. I am absolutely convinced that we are living in the end-times, and I want people to be excited about living for God in these last years before Christ’s return and the rapture of the church.

I am very thankful that God wanted me to meet Marv so I could learn from him, have him as a mentor, be encouraged by him, and know him as a friend, and as a fellow servant of God! What an immense blessing he has been to me – what a precious gift from God! And yes, it wasn’t Marv alone, but God working through Marv, for he saw himself as a weak and humble vessel, and yet one who was filled, empowered, and led by the Holy Spirit.

Just last week, it was time for Marv’s departure from this earth, for the days God had ordained for him came to an end (31,497 days). His work was finished, and so he went home to be with His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. How happy and excited Marv must have been to suddenly leave this earth and immediately be in heaven. “How precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His godly ones” (Ps. 116:15). I am sure Jesus was glad to meet Marv, and upon his arrival, tell him, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your Master.” Matthew 25:23

Just think, on January 8th, 2022, the truth of Heb. 12:22-24 became a life-changing reality for Marv – “You have come to Mount Zion and the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels, to the general assembly and church of the first born who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the Judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” It is so encouraging to know that Marv is literally in heaven, with Jesus who loves him so, so much, with all those angels, and with all the saints who have gone on before him.

Marv is undoubtedly filled with love, joy, and peace, and the satisfaction of knowing that he lived a meaningful and God-glorifying life, that he fought the good fight, finished the course, and kept the faith (2 Tim. 4:7). “To live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:21). And it won’t be long before we will all be in heaven with Jesus, Marv, and all the saints. Those great rapture verses tell us what will happen – “The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore, comfort one another with these words” (1 Thess. 4:16-18). “Give praise to our God, all you His bond-servants, you who fear Him, the small and the great.”… “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty reigns.” Revelation 19:5-6

P.S. I would encourage you to check out Zion’s Hope, the ministry Marv began – you will find it most instructive and encouraging. Let me also mention three articles I have written that focus on our hope, our wonderful and glorious future – “You Have to Have Hope”, “Being in Heaven with Jesus, and the Believers, and in a New Glorified Body” and “Why Do Believers Die?”

Four Good Years and Praying for More

December 18, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ Special Post ~

Thankful: I am very thankful that God has stirred me and helped me to write these prophecy blog posts for the past four years. I must say, I have been extremely motivated and excited about serving the Lord and you in this way, and trust that it has been a blessing to your life. In this special post, there are a few thoughts I want to share with you.

The Plan: After the first of the new year, I am planning on writing posts on an every-other-week basis. Many more end-time’s subjects and Bible passages need to be covered and explained to you. In all this, I have three main goals: 1) to share with you the hope God gives you in His word; 2) to prepare you for the future, for what I believe will prove to be very strategic yet difficult times; 3) to equip you so you can teach others about what God has in store for us. These last years leading up to Christ’s return to rapture the church are critically important times in the life of the church. Even though this past year has been tougher than usual, I believe we are still living in the calm before the storm, before the birth pains grow stronger, and before persecution increases. Take advantage of this time to learn all you can about the future God has planned out for you and the church. “Behold, I have told you everything ahead of time.” Mark 13:23 

Download: I encourage you to download all the posts, articles, and charts. You never know when the powers that be will shut the site down. It doesn’t take that long to download this important information, and then you will have it for yourself, and also be able to share it with others. You may even want to give the downloads to friends and family members, and what could be an eternally valuable and long-lasting Christmas gift for them.

Recent messages: I continue to pastor a small church in Tampa, Florida. My weekly Sunday messages to the church can be found in two places – Sermon Audio and Facebook (Hope Bible Church). In the past two months all my sermons have related to the future, to the hope God has given us. Even my Christmas message (12/20/20) covers the big picture, that is, both the first and second comings of Christ. I also want to say that I greatly appreciate your prayers for my ministry in the church and the writing of these blogposts. If you have any suggestions or questions about the subject of end-time’s prophecy, please email them to me.

Other prophecy sites: Here are two other instructive and helpful prophecy sites that I have mentioned in the past but want to remind you of: Eschatos and Zion’s Hope. Do take the time to check them out, and I am sure you will be very encouraged by them.

One of My Favorite “Christmas” Songs: Let me conclude by sharing the words of one of my favorite Christmas songs, “Joy to the World.” What is so unusual about this song is that it doesn’t focus on Christ’s first coming. It truly is a second coming carol, containing some of the most encouraging words about the millennial kingdom age. I am sure you will find it instructive and heart-warming.  “Joy to the world! the Lord is come; let earth receive her King; let every heart prepare Him room, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven, and heaven and nature sing.   Joy to the earth! The Savior reigns; let men their songs employ; while fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains repeat the sounding joy, repeat the sounding joy, repeat, repeat the sounding joy.   No more let sins and sorrows grow, nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make His blessings flow far as the curse is found, far as the curse is found, far as, far as the curse is found.   He rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations prove the glories of His righteousness, and wonders of His love, and wonders of His love, and wonders, wonders of His love.”

Christmas Post: I will post a special Christmas message this next Monday (12/21/20).

Merry Christmas to you and your family!!! Steve Hogan

Is Jesus Christ Coming Again?

December 11, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #200 ~

Yes! Yes! Yes, Christ is coming again – and He’s coming soon. Jesus Christ, the Creator of heaven and earth, God in the flesh, the Son of God and Son of Man is, without question, coming back to this world. You need to know this and be convinced of this, and be looking forward to Christ’s return to rapture the church and reign over this earth.

About 2000 years ago Jesus Christ lived on this planet for the first time. In fact, many Old Testament verses predicted His coming, and also His purpose on this earth. Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53 say it best, that Jesus came to suffer, die, and pay for the sins of sinners – and all those who repent of their sins and believe that He died for them will be forgiven. After Jesus died, He rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and now sits at the right hand of the Father, awaiting that time when His Father sends Him back to this earth. Psalm 22:27-29, Acts 3:14-21

What does God’s word say about Christ’s coming? Jesus Himself promised that He was coming back. “The coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah” (Matt. 24:37). “I will come again and receive you to myself” (John 14:3). “Behold, I am coming soon” (Rev. 22:7, 12, 20). Peter talked about “the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Pet. 1:13). John told us, “We know that when He appears, we will be like Him” (1 John 3:2). James instructed us, “Be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord” (James 5:7). He went on to say, “The Judge is standing right at the door” (James 5:9). Paul spoke of “the day of Christ Jesus,” referring to His return (Phil. 1:6). Paul talked about those “who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord” (1 Thess. 4:15). He also tells us, “Wait for His (God’s) Son from heaven” (1 Thess. 1:10). The angel told the apostles, “This Jesus… will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11). Truly, truly, Jesus Christ is coming back to this earth, and much sooner than most people think.

How is Christ coming back? Jesus is not coming back meekly or quietly like a lamb, but like a lion, with power and glory – “They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory” (Matt. 24:30). To unbelievers, Jesus is coming back suddenly and surprisingly – “The day of the Lord will come just like a thief… destruction will come upon them suddenly…” (1 Thess. 5:2-3). To all people, Jesus will come back visibly, not secretly – “Behold, He is coming with the clouds and every eye will see Him” (Rev. 1:7). “Just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be” (Matt. 24:27). Christ’s coming will be announced – “The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God…” 1 Thess. 4:16-17

When is Christ coming back? Heb. 10:37 tells us that it won’t be long from now, “For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay.” Rom. 10:11-12 says that “Salvation is nearer to us than when we first believed. The night is almost gone, and the day is near.” In answer to the disciples’ question, “When will these things happen, and what is the sign of your coming?” (Matt. 24:3), Christ gave them numerous signs that must occur before His return – birth pains (vss. 5-8), false prophets (vs. 11), increasing lawlessness (vs. 12), preaching the gospel to the world (vs. 14), the abomination of desolation (Antichrist – vs. 15), great tribulation (vss. 9, 21), and heavenly signs (vs. 29). End-time Christians who are waiting and watching will see that Christ’s coming is drawing near. In other words, you can know the general time of Christ’s return, but you cannot know the exact time, “For of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son of Man, but the Father alone” (Matt. 24:36). Encourage one another “as you see the day drawing near.” Heb. 10:25

Why is Christ coming back? What is His purpose in returning to earth? Here are the reasons:  
1. To rapture the church – “We who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” 1 Thess. 4:17, Matt. 24:31
2. To give us relief from tribulation – “… to give relief to you who are afflicted and to us as well when the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven.” 2 Thess. 1:7; Matt. 24:21-22, 29-31
3. To deliver us from God’s wrath – “… to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, that is, Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath to come.” 1 Thess. 1:10, Rev. 6-9
4. To redeem us from our sinful bodies – “They will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory… your redemption is drawing near.” Luke 21:27-28, Eph. 1:14
5. To glorify the believers – “… in Christ all will be made alive (glorified). But each in His own order: Christ the first fruits, after that those who are Christ’s at His coming…” 1 Cor. 15:22-23
6. To be with us – “we… will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.” 1 Thess. 4:17, 5:10
7. To take us home to heaven – “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may also be.” John 14:3, Heb. 12:22-24
8. So believers can see Christ’s glory – “Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory.” John 17:24
9. To judge the world – “He is coming to judge the earth; He will judge the world with righteousness.” Psalm 98:9, 2 Thess. 1:6-10, Rev. 8-9
10. To defeat the Antichrist – “That lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming, that is, the one whose coming is in accord with the activity of Satan.” 2 Thess. 2:8-9, Rev. 19:11-20
11. To save a remnant of Jewish people – “… all Israel will be saved… ‘The Deliverer will come from Zion; He will remove ungodliness from Jacob’… ‘I take away their sins.’” Rom. 11:25-27
12. To begin His reign on earth –“He placed His right foot on the sea and His left on the land… in the days of the voice of the seventh angel.” (Rev. 10:2,7). “… the seventh angel sounded… The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever.” Rev. 11:15, Zech. 14:9
13. To be worshiped by believers – “After these things I looked and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes, peoples, and tongues… clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Salvation to our God who sits on the throne and to the Lamb.’” Rev. 7:9-10, 5:13
14. To give us our inheritance – “… who according to His (God’s) great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance… a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1 Peter 1:4-5, Eph. 1:14
15. To be worshiped by the whole world – “… that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven, and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Phil. 1:10-11

The greatest event taking place in the world in the not-too-distant future is the appearing, the revealing, the coming of Jesus Christ, our Lord, Savior, and King. Might you believe in Him, love Him, tell others about Him, be waiting for Him, be saying to Him, “Come, Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:20), and be praying to the Father, “Thy Kingdom come.” Matt. 6:9

P.S. When it comes to end-time’s prophecy, the soon coming of Jesus Christ is the single most important subject. Many details need to be understood, but this one fact is what you need to remember. Three posts that talk specifically about Christ’s coming are: “When is Christ Coming Back?”, “Why is Jesus Christ Coming Back?”, and “What Will Happen When Christ Comes Back?”

God’s Guarantee That You Will Be Glorified

November 13, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #196 ~

How are you going to successfully make it to the end of your life, especially when times get really tough? How will you be glorified? And how will you ever get from earth to heaven so you can be with Jesus, and other believers who went on ahead of you? It is certainly not by what you do. Here is the simple answer –“‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord” (Zech. 4:6). An expanded answer is given in Romans 8:18-39, for it tells you that your hope, your future, is guaranteed, for your salvation, from beginning to end, is the work of God, the work of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. What does it say?

Romans 8:26-27. Your salvation is by the work of the Spirit. Let’s be honest, you are physically weak for you get tired, sick, and have aches and pains. You are spiritually weak for you struggle in life, still sin, and don’t always obey God. “We ourselves groan within ourselves” (Rom. 8:23). “My iniquities have overtaken me” (Ps. 40:12). This is why God gave you the Spirit, and a most wonderful gift and help He is. “He saved us… by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:5). “He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever, that is the Spirit of truth” (John 14:16).“By the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body” (Rom. 8:13). “… being led by the Spirit” (Rom. 8:14). “… the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” (Eph. 4:30). “… the fellowship of the Spirit.” 2 Cor. 13:14. How incredibly encouraging, knowing that God gave you the Spirit, and that you have Him now and forever!

Now the main point of Rom. 8:26-27 is that the Spirit is praying for you, interceding for you according to God’s will. Because you’re weak, you can’t make it without the Spirit’s continual prayers. And His prayers are fervent and intense, “groanings too deep for words.” The Spirit wants God’s will to be carried out in your life more than you do, and He is praying that this happens. As for the Father, He knows exactly what the Spirit is asking and is answering those prayers, meeting spiritual needs you don’t even know about. And if it’s God’s will for you to be on earth when the Antichrist is persecuting the church, remember that the Spirit will be with you, and be praying for you, asking the Father to give you whatever you need so you can keep living for Him all the way to the end. Be very thankful that the Holy Spirit is your Helper and will keep doing His part to make sure you make it to heaven to be with Jesus Christ. 

Romans 8:28. Your salvation is by the sovereign work of God. This favorite verse of many describes God’s personal and meticulous work in your life. He is purposely, powerfully, lovingly, and wisely working, ensuring that all His plans for you are carefully being carried out. “God causes all things” – good things, bad things, trials, conflicts, temptations, sins, your family, your church, friendships, sickness, enemies, death – “to work together for good.” Life may seem like a gigantic puzzle, with a million different pieces seemingly scattered all over the place, but God is perfectly putting all the pieces together, making one beautiful picture.

This “good” can refer to the results of God’s work in your daily life. I am sure you have seen God causing both little things and big things to happen in just the right way at the right time with the right person, something only He can do. You plan out your way, but God directs your steps – He continually intervenes in your life and carries out His plans. This “good” also refers to the final part of your salvation, which is described in vs. 29.

Romans 8:29. Your salvation will not be complete until you become like Jesus. Have you forgotten that your salvation won’t be finished until you are glorified? In eternity past God foreknew you, meaning that He knew all about you, that He had you in His heart and loved you long before you ever loved Him. And in eternity past, He determined and predestined all the details of your life. The time came when you were born, and then you were saved, were born again. But at this point in time, you’re not fully saved, your salvation is not yet complete. Only when Christ returns to rapture the church will you be fully saved, be glorified, that is, be “conformed to the image of His Son.” To experience life to the full, you need to be like Jesus (1 John 3:2), you need to be raised in glory, raised in power, and raised with an imperishable body (1 Cor. 15:40-42). Then, in unimaginable and extraordinary ways, you will be able to wholeheartedly worship Him, learn from Him, fellowship with Him, be satisfied by Him, and serve Him!

Romans 8:30. Your salvation is what God Himself planned and will do for you, from beginning to end. The right way to think about your salvation is that it is all the work of God. First, God predestined you – He determined and planned out all the intricate details of your life so you could be saved. Second, the time came for you to be physically born, and then God called you, for His Spirit worked in your heart, convicted you of sin, and revealed Christ to you. Third, He justified you, meaning you were made righteous in God’s sight, and forgiven of all your sins. Fourth, you were glorified, you received a brand-new, Christ-like body. But notice that “glorified” is in the past tense, meaning that what God planned to do for you will surely be done, for He sees the end from the beginning. Once a person is foreknown and predestined, it’s an absolute certainty that he will be called, justified, and glorified. Rom. 8:30 is one of the greatest assurance verses, giving you confidence that you are a child of God, and that nothing can or will stop God from completing your salvation, from making you like His Son, and which happens at His coming. 1 Cor. 15:23, 50-53; Phil. 1:6; 1 Thess. 4:15-17

Romans 8:23-39 is needed truth for every Christian, especially for those living in the end-times, and that’s because it’s truly a prophetic passage. For many people, 2020 has been a most difficult year, but I must tell you that life will be getting tougher and tougher as times goes on, as we get closer and closer to Christ’s return. With increasing birth pains, lawlessness, and persecution, life will only get harder. But remember, since the Holy Spirit is praying for you and the Father is working in you, then God will finish what He started in you. Knowing God’s overall plan for your life, His unwavering commitment to you and His continued faithfulness, should give you much confidence and motivate you to keep serving the Lord until the very end. “He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful.” 1 Cor. 1:8-9

P.S. Knowing that God Himself is responsible for your salvation is essential to know, for it results in joy, peace, confidence, and a heart that zealously wants to follow and obey the Lord. “The Sovereignty of God, A Most Important Truth” is an article that is extremely helpful in knowing how God is personally lovingly, wisely, and powerfully involved in your life.

1950 Years of Jewish History – Luke 21:20-24

July 24, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #180 ~

In the Old Testament, God’s promises to the Jews have been spelled out in hundreds of verses, many of which have not yet been fulfilled. In the New Testament, God continues to communicate His plans for His people. Then in the past 140 years, God’s prophecy that He would bring the Jews back to their land has miraculously been taking place (Ezekiel 36-37), giving us proof that He has not nullified His promises to them, and that we are now living in the end-times. That’s why, at this time in history, at the very end of this church age, we need to study God’s prophetic word, for it reveals to us God’s plans for the Jews, and for the church,

One of my favorite passages is Luke 21:20-24. Sitting next to God’s plans for the church (vss 12-19), it summarizes what happens to the Jews from the time they were driven from their land around 70 AD until the “times of the Gentiles” are fulfilled. In these verses, Jesus predicts the future, for He really wants us to know His big-picture plans for the Jews, a time span that we now know covers over 1950 years.

First (vs 20), Jesus tells His disciples that Jerusalem would be surrounded by armies, and that her desolation, her destruction, would happen soon thereafter. We know this took place in the 1st century because verse 24 goes on to say that these persecuted Jews “will be led captive into all the nations,” and from history, we know this happened after Jerusalem’s desolation in 70 AD. And it will never happen again, for God has told us it would never happen again.

Second (vs 21), Jesus says that the Jews living at the time of this desolation would need to flee from Judea and Jerusalem, to get out of there fast, for that entire area would be a deadly danger zone, for it would soon be run over and ransacked by the ruthless Roman soldiers.

Third (vs 22), Jesus explains that this will occur because these are days of vengeance. God is holy, and since the Jews did not believe He was the Messiah, the One who could save them from their sins, then He had no choice but to punish those who rejected Jesus, who did not recognize the time of His visitation. But Jesus greatly loved His people, and so He kept warning them about what would be taking place in the future. Luke 13:34-35, 23:27-31, 19:41-44 – “The days will come upon you when your enemies will throw up a barricade against you, and surround you and hem you in on every side, and they will level you to the ground and your children within you.”  

Fourth (vs 23), Jesus pronounces a “woe”, a solemn expression of their coming judgment and destruction. Again, we see that Jesus cared deeply for His people, for though He was just, He was also compassionate, knowing how bad it would be, particularly for the most vulnerable, the pregnant women and nursing mothers. He knew it would be absolutely devastating, that there would be “great distress upon the land,” and great “wrath to this people,” the Jewish people.

Fifth (vs 24), Jesus continues this prophesy by telling them three specific things:
1. “They will fall by the edge of the sword.” Thousands and thousands of Jews would lose their lives during that time – multitudes would be killed, and many others would die of starvation.
2. They would “be led captive into all the nations.” From history we know that, at that time, Jews were scattered all over the world and, in fact, are now in over 100 different countries, with the great majority of them living in Israel and the United States.
3. The Jewish people would be “trampled underfoot,” be treated like dirt, meaning they would be greatly hated and persecuted. Antisemitism, this extreme hate for Jews, has been tragically and sadly taking place for the past 20 centuries, the worst of it coming at the hands of Hitler, the one responsible for the murder of nearly 6 million Jews. This Antisemitism will continue in the years ahead, and increasingly so, climaxing during the rule of that most devilish man, the Antichrist.

Jesus then gives the Jews some hope. He says this “trampling” will keep going “until.” This word “until,” a timing word, means there’s a limit to this persecution, that it will not keep going, that it will someday come to an end. The “times of the Gentiles,” that period of time when there is no divinely appointed king over Israel, began in 586 BC with the defeat of King Zedekiah, and will continue until the end of Daniel’s 70th week, at which time Jesus Christ, the King of kings, will begin His glorious reign over this earth. Dan. 9:24, Zech. 14:9, Rev. 11:15

It’s 2020, which means this passage, Luke 21:20-24, covers close to 1950 years. That the Jews are now back in their land means we are living in the end-times, and that God is presently and actively carrying out His plans for them. But what’s next? Here is what God has told us will happen:
* Daniel’s 70th week, the final seven years of the “times of the Gentiles,” and a prophetically most-important period of time, will begin in the near future. Dan. 12:4, Rev. 13
* At the beginning point of this week, the Jews will sign a covenant, but it will be a very bad deal, for though it will be a treaty with the coming Antichrist, it will really be a treaty with the devil himself. Dan. 9:27
* At the midpoint, this wicked Jew-hating Antichrist, will be revealed, and then begin his lawless dictatorship. Dan 9:27, Matt. 24:15-26, Rev. 13
* Christians are raptured sometime between the midpoint and endpoint – Matt. 24:31-36, 2 Thess. 2:1-9
* At the endpoint of this 70th week, Jesus Christ will return to save a large remnant of Jews, and this is when the “times of the Gentiles” will be fulfilled. Daniel 9:24, Luke 21:24, Rev. 10:7, Rev. 11:15
* God will pour out His wrath upon the unbelieving world, and then capture the Antichrist and the false prophet, and cast them into the lake of fire. Rev. 16, 19:20
*Jesus Christ will begin His 1000-year reign over the earth, a most amazing, righteous, and God-glorifying time. The newly-saved Jewish people will be in Jerusalem, and they, along with all believers (Christians included), will be reigning with Christ. Psalm 47, Hab. 2:14, Rev. 5:10, Rev. 20:1-7

This is the future! Without question, this is going to happen! As a Christians, you should be so excited, for in the years ahead, you will literally see the unfolding of God’s prophetic word. That’s why this is the time for you to understand end-times’ prophecy, how it relates to both Jews and Christians, and how it is now being fulfilled in the world. “Your redemption is drawing near” and “the kingdom of God is near.” Luke 21:28, 31

P.S. In these end-times, you need to know how God is working with the Jews if you are to understand how God is working with the church. That’s why it’s important for you to take the time to learn about God’s plans for the Jews. Here are two helpful posts – “The Suspension of God’s Plan for the Jews, and the Church Age,” and “A Short Summary of God’s Working With the Jews.”

Forecasting the Future of the World

January 3, 2020 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #151 ~

Meteorologists forecast the weather, predicting temperatures, precipitation, humidity, highs, lows, etc., but rarely do they get it all right. And forecasting the weather is what people have been doing for thousands of years. In fact, Jesus said, “You hypocrites! You know how to analyze the appearance of the earth and sky, but why do you not analyze this present time?” (Luke 12:56). With these words, Jesus was rebuking unbelievers for they didn’t believe He was the Christ, the Messiah and, therefore, didn’t understand His 1st coming. And sad to say, most people today, including many Christians, don’t understand the times we now live in, and that Christ’s 2nd coming is drawing near.

In these days, God wants Christians to know all about Christ’s 2nd coming and events preceding it, and be accurately forecasting it. But what does God say that enables us to forecast, to predict the future, and with 100% certainty? And why do we know that Christ will be coming back soon? Here is what God’s word says:

* Jesus Christ is coming again. Luke 21:27; Hebrews 10:37; Revelation 22:7, 12, 20
* Jesus Christ is returning soon, for we now live in the end-times, the last years of this church age, that time period during which the Jewish people are once again living in Israel. Ezekiel 36-37, Daniel 12:4, Matthew 24:15-27, Revelation 10-12
* In the coming years, there will be a seven-year period called Daniel’s 70th week, a God-ordained time during which many prophesied events will take place. Daniel 9:24-27
* In the years leading up to Daniel’s 70th week, there will be “birth pains” (earthquakes, wars, plagues, famines and poverty) occurring in various parts of the world, signaling Christ’s return is getting closer. Matthew 24:4-8, Hebrews 10:25, Revelation 6:1-8
* Lawlessness will be increasing in the world before Christ’s return. Matthew 24:12, 37
* There will be a growing persecution of both Christians and Jews before Christ’s 2nd coming. Matthew 24:9, Revelation 12:17; Zechariah 14:2, Matthew 24:15-22
* The Antichrist will be revealed at the 3½ year mark of Daniel’s 70th week. Daniel 9:27, Matthew 24:15
* People will be saved and disciples will be raised up, and Christ’s work in building the church will be completed at the end of this age. Matthew 16:18, 24:14, 28:19-20
* There will be great disturbances in the heavens and a great earthquake on the earth, signs indicating that this age has come to an end. Matthew 24:29, Revelation 6:12-14
* At a time unknown to us, after the Antichrist is revealed and at the end of this age, Christ will return to rapture the church. Matthew 24:15-36, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-9
* God will pour out His righteous wrath on a wicked world. Psalm 98:9; Revelation 8-9, 16
* God will redeem a large remnant of Jews at the end of Daniel’s 70th week. Ezekiel 27:23, Daniel 9:24-27, Romans 11:25-27
* Jesus Christ will begin His 1000-year reign over the earth. Psalm 67, Revelation 20

This is amazing! This is so encouraging that God tells us what will be taking place in the future! And because it’s God’s word, it’s guaranteed to happen. To emphasize this point, Jesus, in the middle of a great prophecy passage, says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away” (Matthew 24:35). Jesus wants us to be completely convinced that His prophetic word is an accurate forecast of the future. He gives us a perfect outline, not all the details, but just what He wants us to know.

Now how does God want you to live in these last, important years of this church age?
* He wants you to study and believe His prophetic word so you can tell others what God wants them to know about Christ’s 2nd coming. Luke 24:25-26, 44-45; 2 Timothy 2:15
* He wants you to be a holy vessel who is useful to Himself, the Master. 2 Timothy 2:21
* He wants you to pray for Christ’s kingdom to be established on earth. Matthew 6:9-10
* He wants you to do His work, using the grace and gifts He gives you. 1 Peter 4:10-11
* He wants you to know that He is sovereign and faithful, and will fully accomplish His work in you and in the church. Romans 8:28-30, 1 Corinthians 1:8-9. Ephesians 1:9-12
* He does not want you to be asleep or worldly, but to be awake, alert, and aware of what God is doing in the world around you. Matthew 16:2-4, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
* He wants you to love Him, and love one another. Mark 12:30-31, John 15:7
* He wants you to have faith, to depend on Him and be trusting His word. Luke 18:8
* He wants you to have hope – that you will be glorified, in heaven, and with Jesus and other believers. John 14:1-3, 1 Corinthians 14:42-44, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17
* He wants you to share the gospel with the lost, explaining to them the purpose of Christ’s 1st coming, and how they can be forgiven of their sins and receive eternal life. Luke 21:12-15
* He wants you to be in a church with a good pastor, and with people who love God, love His word, and love one another. Acts 2:42, Ephesians, Revelation 2-3
* He wants you to be excited about His Son’s return, to be looking forward to seeing Jesus, and being with Him. Job 19:25-27, 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, Revelation 22:20

What a time to be alive! This subject of prophecy shouldn’t be cloudy, but clear to us, for God has told us everything we need to know about Christ’s 2nd coming, the events preceding it, and how to live. Make it your goal this year to know the future He has planned for us. Be like the sons of Issachar, who “understood the times and knew what Israel should do” (1 Chronicles 12:32), like Ezekiel who was a “watchman” (Ezekiel 3:17), and like John the Baptist who made “ready the way of the Lord.” Luke 3:4

P.S. Here is a post that gives a short but good explanation of prophecy – “Prophecy Is Predicting the Future.” This article is most appropriate and instructive as you think about time, your life, and the new year – “The Time of My Life.”

Christmas is More than Baby Jesus

December 20, 2019 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #149 ~

Many people do not understand the true meaning of Christmas. Indeed, it’s a special day of the year, but it’s not really about family, food and presents. In its simplest sense, Christmas is about Jesus, that as God’s only Son, He became a man, and is now both God and man. We should be thrilled and thankful for what is called the “incarnation,” that Jesus came to earth to be God in human flesh. But more than that, Jesus actually came to live with us, for He is called “Immanuel,” meaning “God with us.” Matthew 1:23

Living on earth that first time was an extremely humbling experience for Jesus. He was perfectly holy, yet dwelt among sinful people, with those who were worldly, with those who were ignorant of the truth, and with those who hated the truth, which meant they hated Him and His Father. But Jesus wasn’t looking for praise and honor, for He wanted to be a servant, and He was the servant of all. Multitudes of people from all over Israel saw and heard Jesus, this perfect man, the best teacher, a fighter for truth, a healer of diseases, One who drove out demons, and One who loved everyone, even His enemies.

For three years, Jesus ministered to the Jews, and to some Gentiles. Then the time came for Him to do His most important work, to suffer, die and be raised again. Jesus’ death was purposeful, for it meant being punished by His Father for people’s sins, so as to defeat the devil and destroy his work, and to pay for the sins of those who would repent of their sins and believe in Him. Justice and love met when Jesus died on the cross, for He satisfied God’s justice, resulting in God being able to forgive sinners and show them His love. This forgiveness and salvation is only by God’s grace, by Christ’s death and the Spirit’s work in a person’s heart, and not by their own works. “He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior.” Titus 3:5-6

Jesus was born. Jesus lived. Jesus died. Jesus rose from the dead. Jesus ascended into heaven. That sums up Christ’s 1st coming. Now we live in the church age, that period of time between Christ’s 1st coming and 2nd coming, when He is building the church, redeeming a bride for Himself, and awaiting the end of this age when He will come back to earth. That the Jewish people have returned to Israel and reclaimed their land is God’s clear signal to us that we are now living in the last years of this church age.

It won’t be long before Jesus, with “power and great glory,” will come back in the clouds (Luke 21:27), and rapture the church still on earth, gathering her to Himself along with all believers who have already died and gone to heaven. Jesus will then punish this wicked world (Revelation 8-9, 16), redeem a remnant of Jews, and begin His long-awaited and prayed-for reign over the earth (Matthew 6:9-10). Then those famous Christmas verses (Isaiah 9:6-7, Micah 5:2-5a), along with many others from God’s word, will be completely fulfilled. “The zeal of the Lord of hosts will accomplish this.”

At this time in history, we can look back and see exactly which prophecies Christ fulfilled at His 1st coming, and look ahead, knowing that He will fulfill the rest of them at His 2nd coming. Believers living at the time of Jesus’ birth (e.g. Mary, Simeon, and Anna) didn’t have 20/20 vision like we do. They did understand that what happened was not just about a baby being born, but about the Messiah being both a Savior and a King – they just didn’t know there would be a 1st coming and a 2nd coming. But we can see clearly now, knowing there needs to be a 2nd coming, and that Christ Himself told us so (Matthew 24:3-44). It’s a God-guaranteed fact that Christ will return to earth, and once again will be called, “Immanuel,” for God, will literally be with us.

At this special time of the year, remember these words about Jesus, the Messiah: “Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a Son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end” (Luke 1:31-33). “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). If you don’t know Jesus and His love for you, I encourage you to pray these words from that Christmas carol, “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” “O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray. Cast out our sin, and enter in, be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels, the great glad tidings tell. O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Immanuel.”

P.S. I have written two previous posts about Christmas, ones I would encourage you to look at – “First Coming to Church Age to Second Coming” and “The Christmas Story and Christ’s Second Coming.” Have a blessed Christmas season as you are with family and friends and celebrate the birth of our Savior and King.

Micah – The Prophet Predicts the Future

December 13, 2019 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #148 ~

I love the prophets, the God-exalting, Spirit-filled, sin-declaring, judgment-speaking, future-telling, hope-inspiring prophets. What a blessing that God raised them up, godly men for their day, for our day, and for our future. Their writings are not outdated; they are not to be allegorized; they are not too hard to understand; they are not to be skipped over and ignored; and they are for both the Jewish people and the church.

Micah, like many of the prophets, focused on the sin and judgment of the Jews, but he also spoke about the coming Messiah, the Christ, and the hope He would bring. We see in this short book, like diamonds shining in the dark, a number of verses speaking about the Christ, one predicting that He would be born in that little town of Bethlehem. “As for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you, One will go forth from Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity” (Micah 5:2). This comprehensive, 1st coming – 2nd coming prophecy does not talk about this eternal One being the Savior, but points to Him being the King, the ruler in Israel. And that Christ will be ruling over the Jews and the world in the kingdom ages to come is a major theme in the rest of Micah’s 2nd coming prophecies. Here is what we learn from Micah:

* Micah 2:12-13 predicts, “I will surely assemble all of you Jacob, I will surely gather the remnant of Israel. I will put them together like sheep… so their King goes on
before them, and the Lord at their head.” In the future, Jesus will visibly be the King of the Jews. 

* Micah 4:1 tells us, “It will come about in the last days that the mountain of the house of the Lord will be established as chief among the mountains… and the peoples will stream to it. Many nations will come and say, ‘Come and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord and to the house of Jacob, that He may teach us about His ways, and that we may walk in His paths.’ For from Zion will go forth the law, even the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.” Christ the King will reign from Jerusalem, but He will also be a Teacher, declaring to people from all over the world the truth they need to know and live by.

* Micah 4:5 declares, “He will judge between many peoples and render decisions for mighty, distant nations. Then they will hammer their swords into plowshares… nation will not lift up sword against nation, and never again will they train for war.” In this rebellious and war-torn world, there is no real peace, but rejoice, for Jesus Christ will come and be the Judge, and bring true peace. Micah 4:6-8 gives more valuable information about Christ’s coming kingdom and, in particular, that it will be an eternal kingdom. “The Lord will reign over them in Mount Zion from now on and forever.”

* Micah 5:3-4 goes on to say, “He will give them up until the time when she who is in labor has born a Child. Then the remainder of His brethren will return to the sons of Israel, and He will arise and shepherd His flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord His God… at that time He will be great to the ends of the earth.” This prophesy, that the Jews would be given up, also stated in Luke 21:20-24, means they would be scattered all over the world, and this happened around 70 AD. But since 1880 AD, over 6 million Jews have returned to their land, and now Israel is in labor, for her birth pains are taking place. (Matthew 24:4-8, Revelation 12:1-5). That the Jews are back in their land means we are living in the end times, and so it won’t be long before we see Christ coming in a cloud to rapture the church from the earth, pour out His wrath on this world, and then be a Shepherd over this remnant of newly-saved Jews.

* Micah 7:18-20 concludes, “Who is a God like You, who pardons iniquity… He will again have compassion on us… You will give truth to Jacob and unchanging love to Abraham, which You swore to our forefathers from the days of old.” Here is God, the Christ, being a Savior, showing love, forgiveness and compassion. And we are reminded of His promise to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, that they would have a great multitude of descendants, a large portion of land, and world-wide blessing. Genesis 12:1-3, 13:14-17, 17:1-8

The Messiah, the Christ is coming, and He will be a King, a Teacher, a Judge, a Shepherd, and a Savior. You can only fully understand God’s plans for the church if you understand the prophets, and their description of His plans for the Jews. God’s work with the church is now coinciding with His work with the Jews. What an honor to be living in the last years of this church age, for we read the prophets and look back and see what has been fulfilled, and look forward to see plans of His that will be fulfilled. Christ will soon return, and then we will see these Micah prophecies, along with many more, all come true. And these prophecies for the Jews will directly affect the church, for Christ will be our King, and we will reign with Him, and with Jewish believers, forever and ever.  

I encourage you to read the prophets, and find the verses that speak of the future of the Jews, for they now relate to Christians. Hebrews 11:39-40 explains it this way, “All these (Old Testament believers), having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised, because God had provided something better for us (church age Christians), so that apart from us they (Old Testament believers) should not be made be perfect.” God’s work with the Jews and the Christians will come together, converging in the age to come. The conclusion is given at the end of Romans 11, that chapter to the church that tells us about the salvation of the Jewish remnant, “To Him be the glory forever. Amen.”

P.S. During this Christmas season, it’s good to be reminded of the Old Testament prophets, for they told us so much about Christ’s first coming, and birth, and His second coming. Here are two posts that will help you understand how God’s past working relates to the future God has for us. “Why the Jews Are Important for You and the Church” and “Prophecy Predicts the Future.”

Why Don’t Churches Teach on Prophecy?

November 8, 2019 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #143 ~

When I talk to Christians, I often ask them whether the subject of the end-times and Christ’s 2nd coming is taught in their church, and most of the time they say it’s not. And when they say it’s not, it’s either that they don’t teach it all, or they don’t teach it accurately. But why is that? Why don’t churches teach on prophecy, or if they do, not in the way God would want them to? Let me list some of the reasons:

1. They say, “Christ’s 2nd coming is not going to happen for a long time, and therefore, we don’t need to teach it.” They look out at the world, and it seems everything is going along as it always has been. Their thinking is similar to the mockers of 2 Peter 3:4 who say, “Where is the promise of His coming?” They fail to see that the Jews are back in their land, the number one sign that we are in the end-times. But Jesus and the apostles taught about prophecy way back in the 1st century, and here we are, about 2,000 years later, and “the night is nearly over; the day is almost here” (Romans 13:12). It’s time to teach on prophecy because it won’t be long before Christ returns to rapture the church.

2. They say, “Prophecy is confusing, hard to understand.” It is true that there is some complexity when it comes to comparing prophecy passages, seeing how the Jews fit in, learning what will be happening, and understanding the sequence of end-time events. That’s why Christians need to ask God for wisdom, and take the time to study this relevant subject. 2 Timothy 2:15 tells pastors, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” When you diligently study the word, God will show you vital truths regarding His Son’s return. In fact, Daniel 12:9 says that God’s prophetic word will be unsealed in the end-times, meaning God will supernaturally be opening our minds and revealing His truth about Christ’s return. I am convinced God will give us insight and clarity when it comes to learning what will be taking place in the years leading up to Christ’s coming.

3. They say, “In the church there are many views on prophecy, and to teach on one position will cause problems and it’s not worth it.” A pastor may fear that if he teaches one particular position, then some who have a differing opinion will be critical, unhappy, and may even leave the church. Some Christian leaders have told me, “It’s not a hill worth dying on.” But teaching the truth before God and before man is the right thing, the only thing to do. My experience over the years is that when you prayerfully and humbly study God’s word, you will discover the singular and primary prophetic truths you need to know. The truth must be taught, and as we carefully study the subject of prophecy, we will gain convictions, and be able to properly teach our families and churches.

4. They say, “Prophecy is not that important of a subject. The truths about the gospel, salvation, the church and spiritual growth are much more important.” Many suggest that truths about Christ’s return are not essential or relevant, but are electives, just 2nd tier topics. Yes, I agree that the gospel is the primary subject, but now that we live in the end-times, prophecy is also a primary subject, for Christ’s coming, which is right around the corner, will affect every Christian in the world. The many truths about Christ’s return must be required learning for every Christian. What are you going do to do when you are experiencing birth pains, and are going through great tribulation? We are living in the calm before the storm, and now is the time to study God’s word so we can be ready for the rough road ahead. For you pastors, it is your duty to teach the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). Do you remember that Paul taught young Thessalonian church about Christ’s 2nd coming, and even wrote two follow-up letters to them? Bible prophecy is an incredibly important subject, and God wants to teach it to you, and you don’t want to fail, for you are to teach it to others.

5. They say, “Christ already came the 2nd time, around 70 AD, and that most prophetic truth has already been fulfilled, and therefore, it doesn’t need to be taught.” People and pastors who think this way are not properly interpreting God’s prophetic word, but instead are allegorizing, spiritualizing, and saying words mean something when they don’t. I won’t take time here to refute their false claims (read my Replacement Theology articles). Take God at His word, and study Matthew 24, Luke 21, 1 Thessalonians 4, Revelation 6-22, and then you will know that Christ has not yet come. There are 100’s of verses about Christ’s 2nd coming that will be literally fulfilled, some stating how He will actually appear in the skies above us, and then take us home to heaven. Jesus Christ has not yet come, but He will, and very soon.

It greatly concerns me that this important subject of end-times prophecy is rarely taught in our churches. This should not be, for more than any other time in history, this is when we need to understand it. A world of Christians need to know what God says about it, and be looking forward to seeing Him and being with Him forever. I am praying for pastors all over the world to wake up, and be motivated to study and teach the subject of Christ’s coming (Ezra 7:10). Here are some instructive verses, and notice how they directly relate to our future, to prophecy: “I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and in view of His appearing and His kingdom, preach the word; be ready in season and out of season.” 2 Timothy 4:1-2

P.S. This post is about the present-day importance of learning about prophecy. Two men who have greatly helped me understand God’s word as it speaks about prophecy are Marv Rosenthal and Alan Kurschner. I encourage you to check out their websites.

“I Have Told You Everything in Advance”

September 27, 2019 /

By Steven J. Hogan

~ A Saturday Morning Post #137 ~

In Mark 13:23, right in the middle of Jesus’ message about the future, He tells us, “But take heed; behold, I have told you everything in advance” (NAS). This is one of the most motivating prophecy verses I know, a verse to stir us to study the subject of prophecy, and find out what Jesus wants us to know. To help you understand this verse, here are some other translations: “Be on your guard; I have told you all things beforehand” (ESV). “Take ye heed; behold I have foretold you all things” (KJV). “So be on your guard; I have told you everything ahead of time” (NIV). “See! I have told you about these things before they happen” (NLV). “But take heed; I have told you all things beforehand” (RSV). And here’s the parallel verse from Matthew 24:25, “Behold, I have told you in advance” (NAS).

Let me walk you through Mark 13:23, using the NAS version as our text:
* “But take heed…” Jesus wants us to sit up and take notice of what He’s going to say, to see the importance of His next statement. Jesus is telling us to listen up, to pay attention, and realize that He has told us all the things we need to know about the years leading up to His return and the rapture of the church.

* “behold, I…” Jesus is speaking to His disciples, and to us too. And if it’s Jesus talking, then it’s God talking, which means it’s God’s word, what God Himself has to say to us. Might we listen to Him, knowing that what He has to say is far more important and necessary than anything man can say to us. Lots of people share their thoughts on prophecy, and what they believe to be true, but what Jesus says, what God says, is eternally true and vitally relevant for each one of our lives.

* “have told…” Jesus said this, not just a few decades or a few centuries ago, but close to 2000 years ago. The fact that it was spoken before the church age even began means it’s for Christians living during this entire church age. Since the Jews are now back in their land, we know we are living in the end-times, which means that what Jesus told us is now more critical for Christians to understand than at any other time in history.

* “you…” Yes, Jesus is talking to His disciples, but we are His disciples too, and so He is talking to us. The “you” in this verse is plural, which means this is for the entire church, not just for pastors, and not just for some Christians. All believers need to know and believe what Jesus is telling us about the future. Because it is for all Christians, then it is for you individually. Therefore, you need to personally take heed to what Jesus said, especially in these years leading up to the end of this age and the coming of Christ.  

* “everything…” Has God really told you everything about the future, and everything there is to know about prophecy? Of course not. Otherwise, you would be God, for only God knows everything. When Jesus says He has told you everything, it means He has told you all things He wants you to know about the future. It’s this part of the verse that fires me up, that inspires me to study prophecy like nothing else in the world. If Jesus has told me everything He wants me to know about the future, then I want to know everything He wants me to know. Let me say that again: if Jesus has told me everything He wants me to know about the future, then I want to know everything He wants me to know. How about you? Don’t you want to know? Doesn’t this verse motivate you to study God’s prophetic word, and learn everything Jesus wants you to know about the end-times and His return to earth?

* “in advance.” When you look at the original Greek, you see that the verb in this verse is most accurately translated as “have foretold,” which means Jesus told us what was going to happen in advance, beforehand, before it happens. Jesus wants us to know ahead of time what will be happening in the future. Now He didn’t have to tell us anything, He could have left us completely in the dark, or He could have told us just a few things. But He told us quite a bit about the future, all things we need to know, and He told us way in advance. God loves us so much, and wants us, His children, and Jesus’ bride, to not be afraid of or be surprised by the future, but to know from Him what will surely be taking place.  

Now when Jesus says “everything”, what specifically does He mean? Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21, 1 Thessalonians 4-5, 1-2 Thessalonians and Revelation, describe in detail what will be taking place before Christ’s coming. In Mark 13 alone, we read about false Christs, false prophets, wars, earthquakes, famines, persecution, the Jews, abomination of desolation, tribulation, betrayal, preaching the gospel, signs in the heavens, Christ’s coming, and the gathering of the saints. Then in Mark 13:30, a companion verse to Mark 13:23, Jesus says, “Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place”, confirming that “everything” Jesus predicted will come to pass.

How loving and wise of Jesus to tell us ahead of time what will be occurring in the future. He really wants you to know what will be taking place on this earth before His return. Might you be thankful to Him, and love Him all the more. While you serve Him on earth, be looking and longing for that time when He will take you from here to heaven so you can be with Him forever. Might we all say, “Come, Lord Jesus.”

P.S. I hope and pray you are excited about studying prophecy passages so you can have strong convictions on this subject, and so you can clearly tell others God’s plans for the future. Relating to this post, here is another good post – “Bible Prophecy Enables Us to See the Future” and this important article, “Matthew 24 – The Most Important Prophecy Chapter in the Bible.”

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