Today, as world events continue to move towards the fulfillment of long anticipated prophecies, we face dozens of distractions. Television, computers, e-mails, iPods, jangling music, job pressures, and family concerns constantly pull our minds in different directions. Yet, the Scriptures warn that Christians must be alert and watch for the convergence of a specific series of events that will mark the approaching end of the age and the imminent return of Jesus Christ. The admonitions to be alert and watch appear numerous times in the New Testament (see Matthew 24:42–44; 25:13; Mark 13:33–37; Luke 21:34–36; Acts 20:31; 1 Thessalonians 5:6, 20). The events making news today—droughts, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, spreading violence, wars—converging at the same time we see the decline of Israelite-descended nations and the rise of nationalism in the world—especially in Europe, where we will see the emergence of a power with links to the ancient Roman Empire and an ecumenical-minded Roman Church—should be sobering to anyone with an understanding of Bible prophecy. These events should motivate us to grow spiritually and prepare for roles that we have been called to play in the coming Kingdom of God (Daniel 7:27; Matthew 19:28–30; Revelation 5:10). We also need to remember Jesus’ warning that if we are not watching, we will be taken by surprise and not be ready for His return (Revelation 3:3). However, Jesus promised, “Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching.… Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Luke 12:37–40).

Have a profitable Sabbath,

Douglas S. Winnail

Today, as world events continue to move towards the fulfillment of long anticipated prophecies, we face dozens of distractions. Television, computers, e-mails, iPods, jangling music, job pressures, and family concerns constantly pull our minds in different directions. Yet, the Scriptures warn that Christians must be alert and watch for the convergence of a specific series of events that will mark the approaching end of the age and the imminent return of Jesus Christ...Show more »

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