The Signs of Jesus: The Prophesied Tribulation and Its Impending Arrival
In the words of the New King James Version of Revelation 11:18, the world is being ushered into a cataclysmic era characterized by judgment, wrath, and the destruction of those who destroy the Earth. Jesus has provided several signs to indicate the approaching end of the world, and these are now manifesting in our time. This article explores the 7 Signs of Jesus and their timely fulfillment, backed by historical and scriptural evidence.
1. World Wars and Conflicts
One of the most striking signs is the unprecedented proliferation of global conflicts. For the first time in human history, World Wars have embroiled both major and minor nations. From 1914 to the present, there have not been even a single day when a major conflict was not occurring somewhere in the world. Today, roughly 40 armed conflicts are simultaneously taking place, with an estimated 388,700,000 persons having died due to war since the start of World War I.
2. Famine and Hunger
Famine is another critical sign of our time. One in every six people on Earth goes to bed hungry every night, with over nine million people dying annually from starvation. This global issue is a stark reminder of the societal pressures and imbalances that promote human suffering.
3. Pesteleggences and Diseases
The emergence of new diseases and the resurgence of old ones are alarming signs. The 1918 Flu epidemic claimed over 50,000,000 lives worldwide. Modern diseases like AIDS, West Nile fever, Ebola, and Lyme disease, along with the re-emergence of old diseases such as Malaria, Tuberculosis, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis, highlight the vulnerability of global healthcare systems. Additionally, antibiotic resistance is becoming a growing concern, with more common bacterial infections developing resistance every year. The ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic further underscores the interconnected nature of global health challenges.
4. Earthquakes and Natural Disasters
Natural disasters, particularly earthquakes, are increasing in frequency and intensity. At any given moment, an earthquake is occurring somewhere in the world, much like the constant eruption of around 40 volcanoes. The global impact of these natural events is not just a matter of statistics; it is a wake-up call to the very real dangers we face.
5. Proliferation of False Religions
False religions and cults are appearing with alarming regularity, as prophesied in Matthew 24:23-25. Jesus warned of false Christs and false prophets who would show "great signs and wonders" to deceive people. Today, thousands of different "Christian" denominations exist, each claiming to be the sole path to salvation. Many are dismissive of warnings from scripture, such as 2 Peter 3:4-7 and Luke 17:26-30, which foretell the end times and the tribulation.
6. The Gospel of the Kingdom
Matthew 24:14(NIV) emphasizes the importance of the gospel of the kingdom being proclaimed to all nations. Since 1922, the Jehovah's Witnesses have been proclaiming this gospel worldwide, reaching over 8,700,000 people in more than 900 languages. This ambitious outreach has been met with ridicule, persecution, and rejection from mainstream religious institutions. However, it serves as a clear sign that the end times are at hand, as warned by Jesus and echoed in scripture.
7. Lessons from Noah's Ark
Jesus, like God in Noah's time, provided a clear timeline and a means of salvation. He stated that the gospel of the kingdom would be proclaimed to all nations, followed by the end of the world. Just as God gave Noah 120 years to build the ark, Jesus' message is meant to serve as a call to action for humanity. Those who heed the warning and join the "great commission" are prepared for the coming tribulation.
In conclusion, the signs of the end are not merely esoteric prophecies but are manifesting in our world today. It is essential for individuals to remain vigilant, prepared, and united in their faith during this critical time.
Keywords: signs of the end, last days, great tribulation