When?

Read > Luke 21:5-38

Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man (v. 36).

When will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to take place?” (Luke 21:7). Christians have consistently asked these two questions over the years. Every generation has believed that Jesus would come back in their lifetime because of signs and specific events that they observed. Yet, 2,000 years later, we’re nowhere nearer to finding the answers to the two oft-asked questions.

Instead of giving the disciples a specific time for when certain events would take place, Jesus gave a warning: “Don’t let anyone mislead you” (v. 8). To ask “when” is to ask the wrong question. Jesus also gave a command: “Watch out!” (v. 34). “Keep alert at all times” (v. 36). This was the Lord’s emphasis.

So we need to watch out, not for the signs of Jesus’ coming again, but for the dangers of misinterpreting signs and mistaking them as conclusive proofs that the end of the world is here. These signs – false christs and teachers, apostasy, conflicts, wars, disasters, earthquakes, famines, pandemics, persecution, hatred and martyrdom of Jews and Christians (vv. 8-17) – have been observed in every generation throughout recorded history. Jesus said, “Yes, these things must take place first, but the end won’t follow immediately” (v. 9).

Christ will return. That’s His promise (v. 33). When? We don’t know (Mark 13:32-33). Is it near? Yes, it is nearer now than it was yesterday (Rom. 13:11-12). Imminent? The Lord’s return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:2). Soon? Perhaps today.

Jesus came as Saviour 2,000 years ago. He will come again as Judge (John 5:22, 27; Acts 17:31). “Don’t let that day catch you unaware” (Luke 21:34). If you haven’t received Him as Saviour, you’re not ready to face Him as Judge. – K. T. Sim

More >

·         Romans 13:11-14

·         1 Thessalonians 5:1-10

·         2 Peter 3:3-12, 14-15

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Do you think Jesus will come back in your generation? Why? Are you ready for His return? Are you longing for His return? Why or why not?