Introduction
As we navigate the complexities of the year 2024, all Christian believers should be reflecting on biblical prophecies and their relevance in our current world. The Bible gives us many signs as indicators of the end times. In this blog post, we will explore these signs, supported by scripture, and examine specific examples that we believe fulfil these prophecies today.
1. Signs of Conflict and Turmoil
“And you will hear of wars and rumours of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet.” (Matthew 24:6, ESV)
Current Examples:
Scoffers will say that “wars have been happening forever,” but in recent years, we have witnessed escalating tensions in various regions, including the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. These conflicts resonate with the biblical warnings of wars and unrest, especially regarding Israel and its neighbours (see Psalm 83), prompting many to consider their prophetic significance.
2. Moral Decline
“But understand this: that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy… (2 Timothy 3:1-2,)
Current Examples:
Many observers note a perceived decline in societal values, with increasing instances of violence, substance abuse, and moral ambiguity in media and culture. In recent times, issues such as gender identity, the decline of churches, political correctness, the lack of bible education in schools, government lies, two-tier policing, racism, riots, etc.—the list is very long! This moral decline is often cited as a fulfilment of biblical prophecy.
3. Rise of False Prophets
“For false Christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.” (Matthew 24:24,)
Current Examples:
The rise of various cults and movements claiming divine authority has been noted in recent years. These groups often attract followers with promises of salvation or enlightenment, leading Christians to question their authenticity. Some examples are:
- Mormons (Latter Day Saints)—the book of Mormons and other writings of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young.
- Jehovah’s Witnesses (Russellites)—Awake magazine, Reasoning From The Scriptures, and other publications of The Watchtower Society.
- Seventh-Day Adventists (Millerites)—The Great Controversy and other writings of Ellen G. White.
- Christian Science—writings of Mary Baker Eddy.
- Unification Church (Moonies)—the teachings of Sun Myung Moon.
- International Church of Christ (the Boston movement)—the teachings of Chuck Lukas and Kip McKean and the original Churches of Christ.
- Roman Catholic Church—various Catechisms and the decrees of popes and Vatican Councils.
- the Catholic-like Orthodox churches (Eastern, Greek, Russian, etc.)—decrees of Ecumenical Councils, writings of various “Saints” and “Church Fathers.”
This is just the tip of a very large iceberg; in reality, there are thousands of them across the world
I have noticed recently, on certain social media platforms, that there is an increasing number of false teachers who claim to have met Jesus and been given a personal tour of heaven. Be watchful and avoid these kinds of people. In the Bible, John 3:13 clearly states, “No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.” Here, Jesus is saying that no person has ever gone to heaven and returned. The only person present on earth who was once in heaven is Christ Himself.
4. Global Events and Natural Disasters
“For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places.” (Matthew 24:7, ESV)
Current Examples:
The world has seen an increase in natural disasters, including devastating hurricanes, wildfires, and earthquakes. Events like the 2020 Australian bushfires and the 2021 Haiti earthquake have raised concerns about the frequency and intensity of such occurrences. There are literally too many to mention in one article, so to give you an idea of the scale, I encourage you to watch this video. Grateful thanks to: https://www.youtube.com/@mad_lab
5. Israel and Jerusalem
The ongoing political and social issues surrounding Israel and Jerusalem continue to be a focal point for many prophetic interpretations. Events such as the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital by various nations have sparked significant discussion about their prophetic implications. Since Israel was attacked in the most barbaric way on October 7th, 2023, the situation there has intensified with Israel retaliating (quite rightly) and Iran and its proxies threatening. I think that Psalm 83 can be ascribed to what is going on in Israel today, with a view to keeping a close eye on what is happening now and in the near future
“O God, do not remain silent; do not turn a deaf ear; do not stand aloof, O God. See how your enemies growl, how your foes rear their heads.” (Psalm 83:1–2). “Come,” they say, “let us destroy them as a nation, so that Israel’s name is remembered no more.” (Psalm 83:4).
Naturally, the act of conspiring against the Jewish community is not a recent phenomenon. Throughout history, from the Philistines to the Nazis, the Jewish people have faced numerous plots and schemes aimed at their destruction. Unfortunately, since the awful atrocities of October 7th, antisemitism has reared its ugly head in the most unlikely places, among which are university campuses, places that I had assumed people would need a certain standard of education and intelligence to attend. Obviously I was wrong!
This brings to mind Isaiah 5:20, which says, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”
6. The Antichrist
“Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, so now many Antichrists have come.” (1 John 2:18,)
Current Examples:
The concept of the Antichrist has been interpreted in various ways throughout history. Some contemporary figures and movements are viewed by certain groups as embodying characteristics of the Antichrist, leading to ongoing discussions about their roles in the unfolding of prophecy. However, we can be assured that a figure commonly known as the antichrist, the lawless one, or the son of perdition will rise up to hold a position of extreme importance. The world will not know it at the time, because he fools everyone into thinking he is a good person, but we, as Christians, know that he is standing in for Satan for the first 3 and 1/2 years of the tribulation until Satan pours his spirit into him and he becomes known as the man of sin.
2 Thessalonians 2:7-12 tells us, “7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Only he who now restrains it will do so until he is out of the way. 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming. 9 The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, 10 and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. 11 Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, 12 in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”
Conclusion
As we reflect on the signs of the times, it is essential to approach these topics with discernment and an open heart. While many believe that we are witnessing the fulfilment of biblical prophecies, it is crucial to focus on living a life of faith, compassion, and service, inviting others to receive Jesus Christ into their lives as our saviour. The call to be vigilant and prepared is timeless, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their faith amidst the uncertainties of the world.
Call to Action
What are your thoughts on the current events and their relation to biblical prophecy? Share your insights in the comments below!