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HOW SOON WILL JESUS RETURN?

19/04/2017 08:42:00 The Editor

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After Christ gave his disciples the assurance that he will come back (Mat 23:39), they asked him; “When shall these things be and what shall be the sign of your coming, and of the end of the world?” (Matthew 24:3).

In answering the disciples’ questions, Jesus listed some signs to watch that will help them to know that the end is near.
Jesus used an illustration from nature; “Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When it’s branch is yet tender, and puts forth leaves, ye know that summer is near: So likewise you, when you shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors, ” (Matthew 24:32-33). Throughout the Bible God has given us signs of the end times and most of these prophesies are being fulfilled right before our eyes. Let’s take a closer look at some of the signs:
1. Natural disasters - (Luke 21:11) “There will be great earthquakes in different places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.”

2. False christs and false prophets - (Matthew 24:24) “For there shall arise false christs and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; in so much that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” Think of all the false teachings and false prophesies that are being presented today as religious truth.
3. Increase in fear - And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken, (Luke 21:25-26).

4. Increase in knowledge - “….. to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased,” (Dan 12:4). There will be an increase in Bible study and biblical knowledge will increase. Not only knowledge of scriptures but there will also be an increase in the various fields of technology.
5. Decline in morals – “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away,” (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

6. Gospel to all the world: (Matthew 24:14) “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” This sign is being realised today in a way that has never been seen before. So likewise ye, when you see these things come to pass, know that the kingdom of God is near, (Luke 21:31).