Reading the newspaper headlines about natural disasters, terrorist attacks and relational unrest throughout the world have tendency to create fear. Remember these are birth pangs for Christ’s Second Coming. Instead of being anxious, prepare yourself spiritually by putting your hope in Christ, not in things of this world. Christ comforts and encourages, while the world overwhelms and discourages. Since the disciples faced an uncertain future as persecution increased around Christ and themselves, He gave them the big picture surrounding His Second Coming.  

As Jesus was going out of the temple, He told the disciples that every stone would be torn down from it. They asked when these things would take place and the sign for their fulfillment (Mark 13:1-4).

Jesus said the beginning of birth pangs would see many deceivers coming in His name, hear of wars and rumors of war, nations and kingdoms rising against each other and earthquakes & famines occurring in various places (Mark 13:5-8). Intense spiritual deception, natural disasters and political chaos are signals to prepare for Christ’s Second Coming. 

He exhorted the disciples to be on guard since they will be hated and many put to death on account of Christ. The Holy Spirit will tell them what to say as a testimony, especially when suffering persecution from religious leaders, family members and civil leaders since the gospel must first be preached to all nations (Mark 13:9-13). Severe persecution accelerates the spread of the gospel into all nations.  

When you see the Abomination of Desolation standing where it should not be, flee to the mountains for great tribulation is coming. False Christs and prophets will show signs and wonders to even lead believers astray (Mark 13:14-23). Trusting in Christ and His provision protects you from evil political and spiritual authorities.  

After the tribulation and immediately before Christ comes back in the clouds with great glory, the sun and moon will be darkened, stars will fall from heaven and powers in the heaven will be shakened. At His coming, the angels will gather believers together from the earth. When you see these things occurring, know Christ is coming soon. No one knows the exact time except God the Father. Be on the alert for His sudden appearing since His words won’t pass away (Mark 13:24-37). Be alert for natural signs and spiritually prepared in readiness for Christ’s Second Coming.  

Rate yourself on a scale (1 being lowest and 10 highest) concerning your alertness (opposite of apathy) on the following principles that were underlined above: 

1. Intense spiritual deception, natural disasters and political chaos are signals to prepare for Christ’s Second Coming. 
2. Severe persecution accelerates the spread of the gospel into all nations. 
3. Trusting in Christ and His provision protects you from evil political and spiritual authorities.  
4. Be alert for natural signs and spiritually prepared in readiness for Christ’s Second Coming (blog on Mark 12 explains how to be spiritually prepared)


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