Over the past couple of months, I’ve read and re-read a book by Douglass Cobb, “And Then the End Will Come.” And, it made me wonder, who is the last one? By ‘last one,’ I mean, who is that particular person that needs to hear the good news message about Jesus Christ? Only God knows, and then the end will come.
Introduction
Let’s start in Matthew 24. Jesus explained to His disciples when he was coming back. He used several descriptive images so that only His believers would understand.
- Sprouting of the fig tree (Israel)
- Let no one deceive you.
- You will hear of wars and rumors of wars
- Famine and disease
- Earthquakes and other natural disasters
- People turning away from their faith
- Increase of wickedness
- Persecution and hatred of Christians and their beliefs
He likened all of these signs to the beginning of birth pangs. And then he said, in verse 14, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Only Father God knows the exact timing of all of these events. In 2 Peter 3:9, Peter tells us that the Lord is patient and doesn’t want anyone to perish. Out there, somewhere, is that one person who God wants to hear the Gospel of Jesus and decide to repent and be saved.
Eyes on Israel
Did you know that the modern state of Israel, founded in 1948, is a fulfillment of ancient prophecies? God is currently assembling His chosen people. Jesus told us that the generation who witnessed the awakening of the fig tree (Israel) would not pass away before He returns.
You may not hear much about Israel in the US media, but if you look outside of America, you will find a great deal of activity. There is a new exodus of Jews that have been scattered around the globe returning to Israel. Israel is constantly on guard from attacks from its neighbors and other state-sponsored terror organizations.
Earthly Troubles
The United Nations estimates that global famine is knocking at the door of 41 million people in 43 different countries. According to the USDA, more than 38 million people, including 12 million children, in the United States are food insecure. We’re still feeling the effects of the recent pandemic.
Some of the hottest summer temperatures have been felt across Europe this summer. Sydney, Australia, had the wettest July on record this year. As the “megadrought” in the Western U.S. continues, Lake Mead, which supplies water to 25 million people, has shrunk to a historic low and may eventually be too low for the Hoover Dam to produce hydropower. Deadly flooding in Pakistan. Horrific floods in Eastern Kentucky caused a record amount of damage.
Abandoning the Faith
I think what we are seeing now is a generation being brought up lacking the faith and belief systems of their grandparents. In 1963, the US Supreme Court ruled 8-1 that devotional Bible reading or other government-sponsored religious activities in public schools are unconstitutional. In the 59 years since, we are witnessing the decline of Christianity – especially among young people. As we get closer to the return of Jesus, more people will close their ears and their minds to what is truly going on around them.
When I look at all the news sources I keep track of, I can understand the “why” of current events. But, those who have fallen away from their belief in God have blinded themselves and do not understand.
The Last One
I have much more to write about this topic but will save that for a different time. Only Father God knows when Jesus will return and who the last person is that needs to hear the Gospel.
In the meantime, we should live holy lives. Maintain a positive outlook and encourage others. Why? As all this happens around us, we must stand firm in our faith because our final victory draws near! (PS, I’ve read the end of the Book!) In Galatians 5:22, we have a list to follow: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
If you are not a follower of Christ and desire to become a Christian, the process is simple. This is a heart-led decision. It’s not a political alliance, it’s about FAITH. Forsaking All I Trust In Him. If your faith is genuine, the decision is easy. You don’t need beads, a pilgrimage, money, just a simple prayer of faith.
Admit that you are a sinner (Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23). Believe that Jesus is God’s Son and that he died for you and your sins. And that his death, burial, and resurrection can save your soul. (John 3:16, Romans 5:8-10) Confess that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior. (Romans 10:9-13)
Find an independent Bible-teaching/believing church to attend and grow with like-minded believers. I encourage you to be baptized as a symbol of your obedience. If you’d like me to pray with and/or for you, then send me a message.