Pastor John D Jakes

Jesus taught about the end and His return in some depth in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21.  Yet, I am always amazed at how people use the ‘signs’ of Christ’s return to say much more that Christ did.  He says, ” When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be frightened; those things must take place; but that is not yet the end. For nation will rise up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes in various places; there will also be famines. These things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.” (Mk 13: 7-8)  We hear all the time that wars and natural disasters are happening more and more.  Conservative Christians hear that this is proof that Jesus’ return is near – and that is the proof.  Yet, Jesus did not say that wars and natural disasters showed how close His return was.  He said two things: 1) Do not be afraid and 2) these are the beginning of the birth pains.

People get excited by the more picturesque descriptions of the second coming.  However, a simple examination of Jesus’ teaching of His return shows us that He wanted us to do something with the information.  It was not about the future – it was about today.  Jesus teaches several important lessons for us in His examination of His own return.  Trust, bracing ourselves for rejection, living life for its fullest effect, and sharing the gospel are just a few of those lessons.  Do we see them?

I am looking forward to Christ’s return.  I can’t wait.  However, the teaching on His return was not for us to look at it with mere fascination or for the purpose of date setting.  The prophecy of Christ’s return is intended to prepare for life in the here and now.  So, how will you live because Jesus is returning?

Something to think about,

Pastor John