End of Times: What did Jesus say about the End of Times

Jesus spoke about the end times in several passages within the Gospels. One of the most comprehensive discussions can be found in the Olivet Discourse, which is recorded in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21. In these passages, Jesus describes the signs and events that would lead up to the end times, as well as the characteristics of the period itself.

Relevant Bible Verses:

1. Matthew 24:6-8 (ESV): “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.”
2. Matthew 24:14 (ESV): “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
3. Matthew 24:21-22 (ESV): “For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be. And if those days had not been cut short, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short.”
4. Mark 13:32 (ESV): “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”

Three Main Takeaways:

1. Expectation of Turmoil: Jesus warned that the period leading up to the end times would be marked by significant turmoil, including wars, natural disasters, and famines. These events are described as the “beginning of the birth pains,” indicating that they are just the start of what is to come.
2. The Importance of the Gospel: One of the key signs of the end times is the proclamation of the Gospel to all nations. This underscores the importance of evangelism and the missionary work of the church, emphasizing that the message of salvation through Christ must reach every corner of the globe before the end comes.
3. No One Knows the Time: Despite the signs and indications Jesus gave, He made it clear that the exact timing of the end is unknown to all but God the Father. This serves as a caution against trying to predict the exact date or time of the end times and instead encourages believers to live in a state of readiness and faithfulness, focusing on living according to God’s will and spreading the Gospel.

These teachings from Jesus about the end times call for vigilance, perseverance in faith, and a commitment to spreading the message of salvation, reminding us of the transient nature of the world and the eternal kingdom of God that awaits.