The End is Near

1 Peter 4:7-11

(Use the link below to read the verses.)

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Peter%204%3A7-11&version=NIV;NLT

  

⁷ The end of the world is coming soon

 

What do you think of when you see someone carrying a sign with these words on it? Christians have been saying this for two thousand years. Ever since Jesus ascended into the Heavens, the apostles and all the first century believers thought he would be returning in the near future.

 

⁸ But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 2 Peter 3:8         NIV

 

So much for our sense of time. But for the believers in the first century, the idea that Jesus would be returning soon provided them with a sense of urgency. It gave them hope in the face of desperate circumstances; of terrible persecution. After all, what are Peter’s next words following, “The end is coming soon…

 

…therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. ⁸ Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. ⁹ Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.  NLT

 

In the week leading up to the posting of this blog, I was on vacation. The week before vacation was crazy. I had to get everything done for work that I would’ve done during the week of vacation. And this blog had to be done before leaving. Vacation brings a sense of urgency to us; a sense of what’s really and truly important.

 

In a similar, but much more eternal way, Jesus returning brings us a sense of urgency; of priority; of perspective. Chances are most of us won’t see that day, but it’s not a bad idea to live our lives as if Jesus’ return is eminent.

 

The end of the world is coming soon. It just depends on how you define soon right? Just think of it as getting ready for a vacation.