A Nugget from New Life Network
Scripture for the Day (September 30, 2015)
Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. (Matthew 24:32-33)
The disciples of Jesus came to him privately and asked Him what would be the signs of His coming and what would be the signs of the end of the world. Jesus cautioned them in Matthew 24:36 that no man or angel knew the exact time but only the Father. However, Jesus did give them (and us) a list of things to be looking for and He used the Parable of the Fig Tree to make the point that even if you did not know the exact time you could recognize the season.
The following is a brief list of some of the things Jesus said would be happening when time was getting short:
1. Wars and rumors of wars
2. Nation shall rise against nation
3. Famines
4. Pestilences
5. Earthquakes
6. Persecution and killing of Christians
7. Hatred toward Israel
8. Increase of betrayals and personal hatred
9. Increase of false prophets, false Christs, and deception
10. Rampant sin causing love to run cold
Take a close look at all these things. Do you think we are in the midst of any of these things?
I am not a big eschatology buff because sometimes I think preachers and teachers come too close to trying to predict an exact time which is impossible. That type of teaching can also drive people into fear and I don’t think God ever wants us to operate in fear. If we are in fear we have a tendency to shut down and not do what we are primarily called to do and that is to reach people for Jesus.
Here is our advice for the present situation that we find ourselves in. Be aware, but not afraid. God did not give us a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind. He is coming, so just be ready. Do not let your love wax cold because it is the only thing that will not fail. Be sensitive to the fact that some people around you are going to be offended and make some very bad decisions. They may even betray you or start to hate you. Pray for them and be quick to forgive. It is a sign of the times. Be a student of the Word. By that I mean read it for yourself. Deception will increase and your defense against that is a personal knowledge of the Word of God and a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit. Do not just rely on your local church or Pastor to tell you what is the truth. Know it for yourself!!!!
He is coming and we are ready! Are you?
Just as the gathering of vultures shows there is a carcass nearby, so these signs indicate that the end is near. (Matthew 24:28, NLT)
