At that time many will turn away from the truth and betray and hate each other and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.
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. (Matthew 24:10-14 NIV)
Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, I am he, and the time is near. Do not follow them. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.
Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven. But before all of this, they will lay hands on you and persecute you... When you see Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, you will know that its desolation is near.
There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken.
At that time they will see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory, When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. (Luke 21:8-12,20,23-38 NIV)
For The Son Of Man in his day will be like lightening, which flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other. (Luke 17:24 NIV)
* Many opinions on the return of Christ are everywhere these days and we can expect this because Jesus warned us. But many of these signs look strikingly similar to the news when we see what is happening in Israel. On social media there is a barrage of information. Attempting to sift facts from fiction can be very difficult, however reading scripture can bring clarity and certainty if we allow text to speak for itself. It should bring both peace and joy to our hearts knowing the Lord remains in control and has all things within his view.
Revelation 5:6 describes Jesus having ''seven eyes and seven horns representing the seven Spirits Of God sent forth into all the earth'' in a majestic vision. There are many instances of sevens in Revelation. Seven represents perfection and completeness.
Therefore, Jesus has perfect and complete vision and power over everything to complete the work that is taking place, so we can confidently put our trust in him when our attention is distracted.
It is wise to remember not to allow the many voices in the world to drown out the inspired words of our Lord. Instead simply return to the truth of his word and pray. Whilst we may interpret Gods word diffently the Holy Spirit councils our faith and makes it possible to find peace in turbulent times without forgetting that the time is short.
May we always remain prayerful, staying alert to the deception of our enemy who wants to to steal our confidence. Be available for anything our Lord wants us to respond to knowing he rewards those who diligently seek and walk according to his truth.