The world is moving into one of those periods of time where huge changes is going to take center stage, and events are unfolding towards those signs spoken about in Scripture and particularly the Book of Revelation, known commonly as the End Times. Many events signal the fulfillment of Biblical prophecies: the stirring of the nations, and also of souls and spirits, as never been seen before. It is in such a season that believers must arise, becoming carriers of God’s transforming presence and preparing the way for Jesus Christ’s return in establishing His Kingdom.
Such a change is one that is going to have eternal significance that is deeper than passing moments. In such a time as this, true renewal requires living with an emphasis on holiness and standing firm in faithfulness to our relationship with Jesus. As darkness and chaos grows ever deeper in the world, the Church must shine brighter, bearing fruits of righteousness and proclaiming justice and love. The excitement of the moment will not be enough; only a deep, abiding transformation founded in God’s Word will enable believers to endure the trials that come.
Restoration of God’s Covenant People
One of the most remarkable signs of the End Times is the restoration of God’s covenant people, as prophesied throughout Scripture. The return of the descendants of the Israelites to their homeland and the growing recognition of their role in God’s redemptive plan point to the faithfulness of His promises. This restoration is a visible sign of God’s unfolding purposes and a call to the Church to align with His plans for His Chosen People and the nations. This restoration also serves as a reminder for all believers to reconnect with the roots of their faith and embrace their identity as part of God’s Kingdom. The unity between Jew and Gentile in Christ is a testimony to God’s ultimate plan of redemption for the world.
As the world draws closer to its day of tribulation, believers are called to be prepared spiritually and practically. This includes deepening one’s relationship with God, strengthening one’s understanding of Scripture, and preparing oneself to stand firm in deception and persecution. Jesus warns concerning false prophets and signs that would arise in the last days, calling His followers to be watchful and discerning.
True readiness is, therefore, dedication to holiness, love for the lost, and proper eternal priorities. The trials, then, reveal the authenticity of faith, that the superficial religions would crumble under pressure. Those ones anchored in Christ will endure while shining as their witnesses to his truth and glory.
Refocusing on Biblical Prophecies
In these times, there is a renewed focus on the prophetic Scriptures that detail the events leading up to the return of Christ. By studying these prophecies, believers can gain clarity about God’s plans and their role in His purposes. Prophecies about the rise of global deception, wars, and natural disasters remind us that the world is on the brink of monumental changes foretold by the prophets and by Jesus Himself.
This reconnection with ancient truths equips the Church to face the challenges ahead with confidence and hope. It also fosters a sense of urgency to share the gospel, knowing that the time for repentance and salvation is short.
Leadership in the End Times is a huge responsibility. Spiritual leaders are called to shepherd God’s people with wisdom and integrity, pointing them to the hope found in Christ alone. They must prepare their congregations to endure trials and to live as a holy remnant that remains faithful to God’s commands.
The Bible provides examples of leaders like Noah, Joseph, and Daniel, who navigated times of great crisis with faith and courage. Today’s leaders must embody that same spirit, equipping believers to persevere and proclaim the gospel in the face of increasing opposition.
From Excitement to Eternal Impact
Yet again, though the signs of the Jesus’s coming return surely causes reason to rejoice among believing people, such focus must be lived in practice. The action in preparing Christ’s return requires much more than man’s emotional responses – it needs fleshing out into practical, actionable steps: being disciples, ministering to the poor, and even standing as salt in a very darkened world.
The lasting investment, therefore, is in what is eternal: the souls of people and God’s Kingdom. The Church is called to build communities which represent God’s eternal purposes and to prepare for the ultimate manifestation of His word.
The Role of Spiritual Renewal
Spiritual Renewal in the Last Days is not a choice, but a must. The Church must stand strong and be relevant. As darkness intensifies upon the earth, fresh passion and power are being set ablaze within the hearts of believers by the Holy Spirit to pursue their calling. This renewal means repentance, return to the truth of the Bible, and holy living.
Spiritual renewal will help the Church to shine more than the chaos which seems to increase in our world more and more with every passing day. It also readies the believers to go through any coming tribulation by being strong, holding onto the hope in Christ which the world badly needs at this hour.
A Call to Watch and Pray
In this pivotal hour, Jesus’ words to “watch and pray” (Matthew 26:41) carry profound relevance. Believers are called to remain vigilant, discerning the signs of the times and to intercede for the lost. This posture of readiness ensures that the Church is awake and prepared for the sudden return of Christ.
Ultimately, the focus is on building a legacy of faith, hope, and love that will endure into eternity. By anchoring ourselves in God’s promises and living with urgency, believers can face the future with confidence, knowing that Christ’s return will bring the ultimate restoration of all things.
Note: The contents in this article is shaped substantially from a sharing by Pr Peter Tsukahira. To read more.
|Share The Good News|
Leave a Reply