Matthew 24:6
And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
The invasion and massacre committed by Hamas terrorists from Gaza into Southern Israel over the past weekend has put the world on high alert. Our eyes are being drawn to the news that is showing the horrific and tragic images in real time. Proportionately, the number of deaths (over 1000), mostly unarmed civilians, including women, children, and holocausts survivors, are being equated to the death totals of the 9-11 attacks in the U.S.
Is the end near? I believe it may be nearer than we might think. Yet, people still go about making merry and becoming more complacent despite the happenings, and what is yet to come in the days, weeks, and months ahead of this war between Israel and Hamas.
But we must let cooler heads prevail and not panic and draw an unnecessary conclusion that the end has come. However, could it be a sign of things to come? I think most definitely so. Jesus tells us that these things must come to pass before the end.
Is this a sign that the great war prophesied in Ezekiel 38-39 is coming soon? Perhaps. But you must remember that terrible things have come and will come upon this world before we see the rapture of the Church, The Great Tribulation, and most importantly, the imminent return of Jesus Christ.
Demonic forces and powers are at work in this world for sure. Anyone with eyes and ears can see and hear what is going on is evil. Sadly folks, it's going to get worse before the end comes, and only better when Jesus returns.
One other thing that tells me this is not the end, is that the Ezekiel war will consist of nations, or kingdoms, from the north and south that converge on Israel to try and wipe her off the map. Good luck with that! My bible says God wins in the end and Israel survives!
This war and other chaotic events like it, are not only signs that the end is not too far off, but that God is giving people time to repent and come to faith in Jesus Christ, that they might be forgiven of their sins and rest in the hope of the promise of eternal life, by way of His death and resurrection.
The prophet Isaiah said, "Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near." -- Isaiah 55:6
This is not the time to run in fear or panic. Rather, turn to the One who can and will save you from what is yet to fall upon this earth. Believe me, you will not want to be around when that Day comes.
Better yet, tell others you know about Jesus and His atoning death that has defeated Satan and freed and saved us from the bondage and judgment of our sins that has already condemned us to eternal hellfire and damnation. Any war on earth will pale by comparison to the Hell that waits for those who do not repent and reject Christ.
Your servant in Christ,
Pastor Tom
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