Signs of His Coming

ByJim Stephens

Scripture: Luke 21:5-18

5 Some of his disciples began talking about the majestic stonework of the Temple and the memorial decorations on the walls. But Jesus said, 6 “The time is coming when all these things will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!” 7 “Teacher,” they asked, “when will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to take place?” 8 He replied, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and saying, ‘The time has come!’ But don’t believe them. 9 And when you hear of wars and insurrections, don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place first, but the end won’t follow immediately.” 10 Then he added, “Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things and great miraculous signs from heaven. 12 “But before all this occurs, there will be a time of great persecution. You will be dragged into synagogues and prisons, and you will stand trial before kings and governors because you are my followers. 13 But this will be your opportunity to tell them about me. 14 So don’t worry in advance about how to answer the charges against you, 15 for I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you! 16 Even those closest to you—your parents, brothers, relatives, and friends—will betray you. They will even kill some of you. 17 And everyone will hate you because you are my followers. 18 But not a hair of your head will perish! (Luke 21:5-18 NLT)

Here are some things Jesus doesn’t say are signs of his immediate return:

  • False messiahs. Over 50 have claimed to be Jewish or Christian Messiahs.
  • Wars between nations. There are currently 56 intense wars taking place.
  • Famines. 318 million people experiencing famine in 2026. 47 nations in food crisis.
  • Earthquakes. Over 100 severely damaging earthquakes per year around the world.
  • Persecution. 388 million Christians in over 50 countries are experiencing high, very high, or extreme persecution.
  • False prophets. Many of today’s false prophets have social media accounts.
  • Moral decline in society. Gallup poll: 83% say US morals are declining.

The Signs of His Coming: 1) The Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the earth. (Matthew 24:14) 2) Jesus will appear in the heavens with power and great glory. (Daniel 7:13-14) Life on earth will never be the same!

Prayer:

Father, Please help us to focus on what matters most! We don’t want to get caught up in “end time” arguments that distract us from following Jesus here and now! May we always be watching and waiting and working to build your Kingdom. Amen!