Times Of Swaziland: CORONAVIRUS IN THE BIBLE

CORONAVIRUS IN THE BIBLE
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The Editor on 27/03/2020 00:02:00


Sir,
The coronavirus has infected more than 235 000 people since it first emerged in
China last November. The pace at which the virus has spread across the globe has
led many to read the Bible in search of answers.
The virus has never been seen in humans before and there is no known cure or
vaccine. As a result, many have taken these factors as evidence of the virus’
supposed connections to biblical prophecy.
In recent weeks, many people have taken to social media to voice their concerns
about the coronavirus pandemic. Many believe that the virus is a forerunner to
the seven last plagues of Revelation. However, Bible prophecy is not silent.
Signs
In Luke chapter 21, Jesus speaks prophetically about the signs that would
precede the end of the world. In Luke 21:11, Jesus says one of those signs would
be pestilences; “And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and
famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from
heaven.” A pestilence is a plague or disease. Though the Bible does not
specifically mention the coronavirus, known as COVID-19, it does mention deadly
viruses or pestilences.
Additionally, in Matthew 24: 7-8 Jesus says; “For nation will rise against
nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines
and earthquakes. But these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.” In
several versions of the Bible the word ‘pestilences’ appears between famines
and earthquakes.
Pandemics
When pandemics such as the coronavirus occur more often and become more deadly,
we should pay attention as these are warning signs that Jesus is coming back
soon. The clock is indeed ticking on humanity and this clock has already been
ticking for a long time. Since the end of the 2 300 days prophesied in Daniel
8:14, we are living in the very last days. The leaves of the fig tree are coming
on, summer is very near.
“But how close the clock is to hitting midnight, the Bible says no man knows,
‘not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father
knows’,” Matthew 24: 36. As we think about the momentous times we live in,
remember that Jesus is always by our side. He will walk with us no matter what.
Jesus says; “I will never leave you nor forsake you,” Hebrews 13: 5.
Promise
Before Jesus was crucified, He gave this promise to the disciples and by
extension to us. “These things I have spoken to you, that in me you may have
peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have
overcome the world,” John 16: 33. We can have peace in Jesus our Saviour who
is with us.
In John 14: 27, Jesus again tells us to not be troubled or afraid, because He is
with us no matter the situation or circumstances. “Peace I leave with you, my
peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart
be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” God repeats Himself in several verses
because He knows that as humans we need constant assurance of His care for us.
So in these trying times, pray and ask God to remove your fear and anxiety; to
surround you with His presence; then take a deep breath and relax, knowing that
your life is in the hands of God who created you.
Bopoto Gwinyai