The Bible is full of prophecies, teachings and warnings about the end times. From the Old Testament through to the New, the Bible paints a vivid picture of what will happen in the last days. Although some of the details could be interpreted differently, overall the Bible gives us a general outline of what to expect – from global disasters to God’s ultimate judgement.
Before Jesus even takes up residence on Earth again, the Bible warns us about a great tribulation that will occur before his return. Jesus himself described it as a “time of distress such as has not been since the beginning of the world” (Matthew 24:21). He also said there will be “wars and rumors of wars…nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom.” (Matthew 24:6-7).
The Bible also mentions signs and events that will take place before Christ’s return, such as natural disasters, the rise of false prophets and a great apostasy. Regarding those who are living during this time, the Bible says that “in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves…ungodly” (2 Timothy 3:1-5).
The Bible also talks about a period of judgment by God. The book of Revelation describes a time in which the nations that have rebelled against God will be judged and their sins punished. According to the Bible, “the inhabitants of the earth will be burned up…the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night” (2 Peter 3:10).
Finally, the Bible predicts an eventual peace and tranquility which will come after Jesus’ second coming. The Bible has God’s promise that “the Earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea” (Isaiah 11:9). It’s a time of peace and joy where sin is finally conquered and all people will be reunited with God in Heaven.
The Antichrist
The Bible also talks about a figure known as the Antichrist who will be at the center of all the chaos and destruction during the end times. He is described as a figure of ultimate evil who “opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped” (2 Thessalonians 2:4). The Antichrist will deceive many people and mislead them into believing his lies and deceptions. Ultimately, the Bible makes clear that the Antichrist will be destroyed during the battle of Armageddon.
The Rapture
The concept of the rapture refers to the belief that God will take all of His children to Heaven before the end times begin. This doctrine is primarily based on 1 Thessalonians 4:17 which says, “Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” According to this belief, all those who have accepted Jesus Christ into their lives will be taken to Heaven with Him to be protected from the coming disasters and judgements that will happen on Earth.
The Millennium
The Bible also talks about a period of 1000 years of peace and prosperity that will occur after Jesus’ return. This period is referred to as the “millennium” and is described in the book of Revelation. During this time, Jesus will reign from the Earth and bring about a time of perfect peace and justice. After this 1000 year period, the Bible teaches that a final judgment will occur and the righteous will go to Heaven and the wicked will be cast into the lake of fire.
The Role of Christians
The role of Christians during the end times is a crucial one according to the Bible. Jesus himself tells us that “he who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13). Christians are expected to be faithful until the end and to remain steadfast in their faith even when things seem dark. The Bible also encourages us to “hold fast the word of life” (Philippians 2:16) and to “be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15).
False Religions
The Bible also mentions that there will be several false religions which come about during the end times. The Bible warns us to not be deceived by them and to instead remain grounded in the truth of God’s Word. Jesus himself said that “many false prophets will arise and deceive many.” (Matthew 24:11). He also warned us to “beware of false prophets” (Matthew 7:15-16). We are called to stand firm in our faith and to not be led astray by false teachings.
Armageddon
The battle of Armageddon is mentioned several times in the Bible. It is the ultimate battle which culminates the end times. The Bible states that the battle of Armageddon will involve all nations of the world coming together to fight against God’s chosen people and against Jesus himself. It is a time of great destruction and death, but one in which God will have ultimate victory. The Bible states that “the Lord will be seen over them, and His arrow will go forth like lightning” (Revelation 19:11-21).
The New Heaven and Earth
The Bible talks about a new Heaven and Earth that will come about after the Battle of Armageddon. This is the ultimate goal of God’s plan for the world. The Bible states that Heaven and Earth will be destroyed and then remade anew. It will be a perfect place without any more war, suffering or death. All people will be reconciled with God and will dwell in peace and harmony thinking no evil. This new Heaven and Earth is a place which we should all strive to enter.
