Perspectives: End Times (Matthew 24)

Its quite interesting to see the catastrophic events happening around us which points to what Christ said about the end times. And indeed, it is true that we are in end times. I think there are 2 fundamental things we need to look at to have a holistic view on what Christ is really telling us.

(1) Actual Time of the Last Days

(2) Being Prepared

Actual Time of the Last Days

There are 2 very important things Christ points out to us to know that the end is near:

(a) The Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached to all the nations (Matt 24:14) and (b) There will be an abomination that causes desolation - (Matt 24:15). From these two verses we understand that the end is closely following these two major events - Gospel preached and Anti-Christ rules.

Being Prepared

Now how can we be prepared and stand firm to our faith. Its amazing to see that Christ first helps us in preparation and then moves to the times. Thats why he starts by giving instructions in His reply to the question. So if you carefully read verses (Matt 24:4 & 6), our Lord is saying two things: (a) do not be deceived by the spirit of anit-christ (Matt 24:4) and (b) do not be alarmed when you hear news of doom (Matt 24:6).

So, I think we as Christians ought to be prepared to face the coming days with the help of the Holy Spirit - He will lead us into all Truth (John 14:17).

Meaning of 'Times'

Another fascinating revelation that emerged as I was writing this was the very meaning of the word 'times'. Now, what do you mean by end of times? and what do you mean by the word times itself? From the scripture I understand that we are in the 'times' of grace where God is so graciously waiting for every soul to repent and come back to Him. So, once the grace is preached to all (Matt 24:14), what follows then is the abomination that causes desolation (Matt 24:15), which will begin the 'times' of the great tribulation for all the saints of God

(Matt 24:21) onwards.

So lets understand the times and be prepared to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves because we are sent as sheep among wolves (Matt 10:16).

In the Lord Jesus Christ,

John