During the week leading up to His Crucifixion, Jesus spent His days in Jerusalem teaching in the temple, His nights on Mount Olive. There He shared with the disciples things that would happen in the end times. These teachings became known as the “Olivet Discourse”. Here in Luke, Jesus begins when some of the disciples comment on the beauty of the temple with it’s exquisite stones and many gifts dedicated to God. Hearing their words He said, “As for these things which you are looking at, the days will come in which there will not be one stone upon another which will not be torn down. They questioned Him saying, ‘Teacher, when therefore will these things happen? And what will be the sign when these things are about to take place?” (vs. 21:7)
Jesus goes on to give a series of signs that would signal His return. “Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be great earthquakes, and in various places plagues and famines; and there will be terrors and great signs from heaven.” (vs. 21:10-11) Throughout history people have argued about these signs; their meaning, and their timing. And although it’s important for us to be aware of the signs of the times, when we solely focus on these signals we miss out on what else Jesus said about end times. For not only did the Lord give us signs, He also gave us warnings.
Don’t Be Misled- Jesus warns that many false prophets will come in His name saying, “I am He” and deceitful date setters will cry, “The time is near”. How do we guard ourselves against such people? By knowing the Word of God. Whatever teaching we hear, the first thing we need to do is to compare what they are saying to what the scriptures say. Psalm 119:105 describes the Bible as, “A lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” If we measure everything we hear against the Bible, we won’t be led off God’s path and fall prey to “wolves in sheep’s clothing”. (Matt. 7:15)
You Will Be Persecuted- Jesus warns that “They will lay their hands on you”, and “Bring you before kings and governors for My name’s sake.” Following Jesus doesn’t ensure a life of peace and ease. In fact He says quite the opposite. He tells us that we will be betrayed by those we love, we will be hated, and some of us even put to death. But Jesus instructs us, “Do not fear those who kill the body, but are unable to kill the soul; but fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Hell.” (Matt. 10:28) When facing persecution we are to stand strong, using every tribulation as an opportunity to share the gospel. Jesus tells us to trust Him to give us the perfect words to speak; rejoicing knowing our endurance will be rewarded with our lives.
Be On Guard- Just like sprouting leaves in the spring assures us that summer will soon follow, Jesus warns that when we see His warning signs fulfilled, “Recognize that the kingdom of God is near.” (vs. 21:31) In patient anticipation for that glorious day, we are to watch, pray, and most of all, guard our hearts. “But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (vs. 21:36) Jesus cautions us against getting distracted by earthly living and instead encourages us to keep our eyes on the prize and live in constant awareness of His soon return. “I am coming quickly; hold fast what you have, so that no one will take your crown.” (Rev. 3:11)
With all of the anger and division in the world I find myself crying out as king David did,”How long shall the wicked, O Lord, how long shall the wicked exalt.” (Ps. 94:3) I wonder how much lower society will sink into wickedness before God cries, “Enough!” But I do not despair. For far from the world falling to pieces, the pieces of God’s plan are falling into place. Time’s are, as Pastor Adrian Rogers once said, “growing gloriously dark!” I truly believe that the season of the Lord’s return is upon us. So, “straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near!” (vs. 21:28)
