By: Dr. James Bachman
Dear Parson,
Do you believe the world will end in the next ten years?
Absolutely not! The Bible does say the world will someday burn up and dissolve (II Peter 3:10-11), however, the seven-year tribulation period (Daniel 9:24-27; Revelation chapters 6-19) and the thousand-year earthly reign of Christ (Revelation 20:4-6) must take place first. That gives us at least 1007 years.
Just prior to the seven-year tribulation on earth, Christ will return to take all born-again Christians with Him to Heaven (I Thessalonians 4:16-18). That can take place at any moment. We are told to watch and be ready for His return (Matthew 24:42-44).
There are many signs for which to watch, such as in Matthew 24:5-12 and II Timothy 3:1-5.
Being ready is to:
FIRST be born again by turning to Christ for salvation and receiving Him by faith. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” (John 1:12)
SECOND be right with others through forgiveness (Ephesians 4:3 and James 5:9) and restitution (Matthew 5:23-24)
THIRD be right with God. “Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” (Revelation 3:3)
FOURTH be serving others through witness (Mark 16:15) and help (Galatians 6:10; Matthew 25:34:40).
If we take care of watching and being ready for His return, we don’t have to be concerned about the end of the world.
Send questions and comments to: jamesbachman@juno.com
