Wars and Rumors of Wars

Matthew 24:3-14   What We Are Witnessing . . .   We are watching prophecy unfold before our eyes. Nations rising up against Israel; global criticism of Israel A terrorist organization, Hamas, epitomizing evil as they threaten the lives of both Palestinians and Israelis.  Innocent people as human shields Numerous broken cease-fires Using contributed funds to advance their agenda to destroy Israel, not build a better Gaza. The Bigger Story . . .   There are certain events that God has ordained that must take place prior to the return of Christ.  (vv.3-14) Know the truth—because there will be those who will seek to lead you astray. (v.4)   False Christs and false religions—a religiously pluralistic culture embraces all faiths as true faith and many Messiahs. (v.4)   Wars and rumors of wars—there will continue to be an increase in violence; nation vs. nation and kingdom vs. kingdom. (v.6-7)   Famines/Earthquakes/Pestilence—as the economic crisis globally continues to grow, so will the lack of food; as earthquakes increase it will create major issues; pestilence (v.7); Luke 21:5-19   Tribulation/Death—those who follow Christ will face intense persecution, and some even death. (v.9)   Apostasy—the falling away of those who are not true followers of Christ.  (v.5,10-12)   Spiritual Awakening—the advance of the gospel will reach the ends of the earth. (v.14)   All of these events are occurring, but they will intensify before the return of Christ.  (v.8); Isaiah 26:16-19     The Next Chapter in the Story . . .   The beginning of the 70th week spoken of by Daniel, which is the final 7 years. A false peace that is marked by a 7-year treaty with Israel. The covenant with death (Isaiah 28:14-18; Daniel 9:27) It will be broken 3 ½  years later when we see armies surrounding Israel, and the Antichrist seated in the temple.   The End of the Story . . .   The gospel tells the story that ends with us gloriously reigning with Christ because He has saved us from sin and saved us to Himself.    “Behold, I am coming soon, bringing My recompense with Me, to repay everyone for what he has done.  I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”  Revelation 22:12-13   “And He who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.  Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.’”  Revelation 21:5   Where Am I in the Story . . .?   Am I ready to surrender to the One who can mend what sin has unraveled in me?