When we are exploring themes around the biblical End Times, we need to ask ourselves whether there are some broad brushstrokes that God has painted out for us. Are there some clear spiritual dynamics we should expect to see or experience the closer we are to Jesus’ return?
Yes there are. And you don’t have to do a deep dive into Revelation or obscure prophecies to be aware of them. I would say that if we only had Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 24 and Joel’s prophecy in Joel 2, it would give us an accurate and sufficient global scenario to understand what the trends that are to come.
In my book ‘Radiant and resolute’ I examine these in some detail. Suffice it to say that we should expect both great awakening and great turbulence in the world at the end of this age. Why great awakening? Because Jesus said that the end would come after the gospel has been preached in all nations. Joel speaks of a worldwide sense of outpourings of the Spirit and people calling on the name of the Lord amidst dramatic world events. It seems that the church soon brings a final mission push of sharing the gospel, that the Holy Spirit empowers his people with a prophetic clarity and urgency, and many across the world respond to Jesus. And in different parts of the world this is beginning to happen.
Why great turbulence? Because Jesus lists a whole catalogue of events that mark global birth pains: widespread natural disasters, deception of the truth, persecution of believers, a turning away from faith, and a battle against Jerusalem, even at the same time that many are awakening and rising up in faith. Joel is given a vision of wars, cosmic disturbances, and worldwide troubles that culminate in the great and dreadful Day of the Lord, when Jesus returns to mount Zion.
How should we face up to this portrayal of the years soon to come? Well, the expectation of a greater spiritual awakening should fill our hearts with joy. We should be expectant that communities of faith will be filled with the Spirit. We should be very hopeful that many in the nations of the world will be open to Jesus, and turn and put their faith in him.
Yes but what about the coming turbulence? It is already said that we currently live in an age of anxiety. Do we need to add any more fear or heighten the expectation of intense worldwide events? I think the truths of Psalm 46 can help us immensely. This psalm tells us clearly how God is a refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. His presence brings faith rather than fear. When things in the world are being shaken, and the waves of trouble are crashing, there is a spiritual river of life that we can drink from. Jesus is greater than war and falling kingdoms, and his grace and utter control of the events of history become a source of awe. We are constantly pulled back to a place of being still and knowing that He is God.
It is said that to be forewarned is to be forearmed. This is true for us today. Whether in the next few years, or the not too distant future, the world will face some spiritually intense times, both for good and bad. The brightness of the great awakening will offset the darkness of the great turbulence; and because God has always promised to be with us, he will be our fortress and stronghold of faith and confidence.
Thanks for reading. William
