This chapter primarily contains Jesus’ prophesy and foretelling of ‘the end times’ including a time of great tribulation, the destruction of Jerusalem (then the whole world), and His second coming.
“…’Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven… This will be your opportunity to bear witness… But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.’ ” (v10-11, 13, 34-36 abr)
Over the last 40-50 years there has been much debate regarding ‘the end times’ and the timing of Jesus’ second coming. Though an interesting a topic of discussion, scripture is quite clear on God’s expectations of us: be ready, prayerful, vigilant, and obedient witnesses, because only the Father knows the timing of such events.
Personally, I feel debates over ‘the end times’ (which can become heated arguments) are somewhat disobedient to God’s commands (to simply be ready and be witnesses for Jesus). We’re not generally called to be doomsayers and heralds of ‘the end times’, but ambassadors for Christ and God’s love. I suggest we could spend less time and energy focusing on matters that are strictly God’s to know and understand, and put more resources into spreading the gospel message and making disciples. In this way we help prepare more hearts for Jesus’ kingdom and His eventual return.
Clarification: I’m not saying that we can’t talk about ‘the end times’ at all. I am suggesting that we shouldn’t let that topic steal our focus from our primary mission(s), or use it as a ‘scare tactic’ for repentance.
Father God, our Lord of Love and King of Creation, we praise Your holy and magnificent name. Thank you for the guidance Your word and Spirit. May we invest Your resources in accordance with that guidance, and love our neighbors deeply, sharing Your word and gospel message as directed. We seek to be ready, prayerful, and alert to Your every prompting, for the building of Jesus’ kingdom. Amen.
~ Conqueror in Training