Dear Explorer,
Let's continue our discussion on End Times.
Re-Read Matthew 24:15-21
And
Re-Read Mark 13:14-19
and
Re-Read Luke 21:20-24
Some scholars believe that Jesus was speaking about the AD 70 invasion in these verses. Remember that End Times began when Jesus ascended back to Heaven or approximately AD 30. So, He's telling them about the very beginning of the End Times.
Others believe these things will happen closer to the end of the End Times.
I don't know.
Re-read Matthew 24:22-29
And
Re-read Mark 13:20-25
And
Re-Read Luke 21:25-26
Here Jesus lists the final signs at the very end of the End Times right before Jesus returns. These are the signs that we should be watching for and recognize. What signs are listed here?
Look again at Matthew 24:28. Do you remember on Day 205 when Jesus told the Pharisees that if they were good at reading the signs of nature, they ought to be able to read the spiritual signs and figure out that He was the Messiah?
I believe that Jesus concludes His list of signs by reminding them and us that these signs will be as obvious as the signs in nature.
But there is a distinct possibility that these words were intended to be taken two ways. It is entirely possible that Jesus was calling the Pharisees vultures who were crowding around Him waiting for Him to die.
And then Jesus tells us that He will return after these signs.
Re-read Matthew 24:30-31
Where will we see Jesus first (if we are still on earth)?
He will be in the clouds. Now I don't know how both the northern and southern hemispheres of the whole world will be able to see Him at the same time, but since God is the Creator of all things, I trust that He can make it happen!
What is the reaction of most people (those who are empty)?
What will we hear next?
The trumpet call to announce King Jesus' arrival!
Then what happens?
The angels will gather His elect from all over the world.
Who are the “elect”?
The definition of “elect” is the chosen ones or those designated or singled out.
Matthew 24:31 has been used to say that God plays favorites and chooses some people and rejects others. I cannot find support for that belief without throwing away an awful lot of Scripture. Most verses teach that whosoever will, may come. I believe that the Bible overwhelmingly teaches that all are welcome to invite Jesus into their God-shaped vacuum.
Once you invite Jesus in – you immediately become part of the “elect”. The chosen ones. If we are still alive when Jesus returns – we'll be gathered up to Heaven by the angels.
Read 1 Thessalonians 4:17
Super Wow!
In His service, dale
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