The end times is one of the most discussed topics in the Bible and arouses curiosity in many people. The Scriptures contain prophecies and teachings about what will happen in the last days, but interpreting these texts can be challenging. Different passages present symbols and visions that generate questions and debate. See what the Bible says about the end times, analyzing facts and interpretations to better understand how this topic is dealt with in God's Word.
Facts about the end times in the Bible
1# Jesus spoke about the end times in Matthew 24
In the 24th chapter of Matthew, Jesus describes signs that will precede the end. He mentions wars, famines, earthquakes and persecution of his followers. However, Jesus warns that these events are only the beginning of the sorrows and that no one knows the exact date of his return: "No one knows the day or the hour, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone." (Matthew 24:36).
2# The book of Revelation presents a prophetic vision
The Book of Revelation, written by the apostle John, is one of the most symbolic passages about the end times. It mentions the final battle between good and evil, the return of Christ and the new creation, where God will make all things new (Revelation 21:5). The book also presents enigmatic figures, such as the four horsemen, the beast and the dragon, which generate different interpretations.
3# Signs in heaven and on earth are mentioned in several passages
In addition to Matthew and Revelation, other texts, such as 2 Peter 3 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, talk about the return of Jesus and the supernatural events that will take place in heaven and on earth. The Bible mentions that there will be a time of great tribulation, followed by the glorious manifestation of Christ.
Interpretations of the end times
Interpreting biblical prophecies about the end times can be complex. This is because some passages are highly symbolic and require careful reading. There are different theological approaches to understanding these texts:
1# Premillennialism
This interpretation believes that Jesus will return before a literal thousand-year period of peace, known as the millennium. During this time, Christ will rule the earth, and at the end, the final judgment will take place.
2# Post-millennialism
According to this view, the millennium is a symbolic period and represents a time of growth for God's kingdom on earth. After this period, Christ will return and judge humanity.
3# Amillennialism
This current believes that the millennium is a metaphor and represents the spiritual reign of Christ through the Church. For amillennialists, the end of time will be marked by the return of Jesus and the final judgment, without a literal thousand-year period.
How these teachings can be applied to everyday life
Although the prophecies about the end times may seem far away, the Bible teaches us to live prepared and in communion with God every day. Jesus made it clear that no one knows the time of the end, so the best way to prepare ourselves is to cultivate a life of faith and vigilance.
The central message is that the focus should not be on trying to predict the date of the end, but on living with purpose and love for others. This is in line with what Jesus taught in Matthew 22:37-39: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind. [...] Love your neighbor as yourself."
The importance of hope and trust in God
The subject of the end times can generate fear and anxiety, but the Bible also offers a message of hope. Biblical prophecies show that, despite the difficulties, God is in control and will bring a new beginning for those who believe. Revelation 21:4 promises that "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, nor pain."
Living with this hope helps us to face the challenges of the present with more confidence. Instead of fearing the future, we can trust that God is leading all things towards his eternal purpose.
What we can learn from waiting for the end times
Waiting for the fulfillment of the prophecies about the end times teaches us to be vigilant and persevering. In Matthew 25, Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins, emphasizing the importance of being prepared, because we don't know when the Bridegroom will come. This reminds us to keep our faith active, cultivating a constant spiritual life and helping others to know God's love too.
The biblical message about the end times is not limited to destruction or chaos. On the contrary, it points to a future of restoration and renewal. For believers, the end is only the beginning of a new creation, where we will live in full communion with God. The best way to await this moment is to live in love, hope and faith, knowing that, at the right time, all things will be renewed.
See also: How to overcome family conflicts through biblical principles
October 24, 2024
With a lot of faith and positivity, she writes for Pray and Faith, bringing messages and Divine teachings to everyone.