End Times Survival Guide

Maintaining Hope In Light of Christ’s Return

There’s been a lot of discussion recently about the “end times," the “end of the world,” and the “apocalypse.” It seems to have permeated popular thought, culture, films, and entertainment. In the Christian world, I have seen a lot of negative responses from believers in regards to this issue: fear, paranoia, isolation, selfishness, anger, resentment, retreat, negligence, animosity, and paralysis (just to name a few). This is to be expected as much of the accepted teaching on this subject has created false impressions, expectations, and emotions.

I used to be one of those Christians that had a “doom and gloom” outlook when thinking about eschatology. The church in the last couple of centuries has not done the best job in giving people a positive outlook when discussing things like the “rapture” or the “tribulation.” However, after being lovingly confronted by a brother and doing a lot of personal reflection and study, I began the journey of reclaiming my hope for the future. I began studying the sermons and writings of well-respected pastors, theologians, and authors on the subject (especially those before the 20th century). What I found was astonishing. The disposition of Christians throughout history has been hopeful not dreadful when thinking about the end times.

That being said, this blog will not be about how to properly dig your bunker, purify water, hunt for food, or keep your family safe. Instead, in rather ironic fashion, this post will be about “surviving” all the negative thinking associated with the”end times.” For too long improper theology has enabled Christians to remain petrified and passive in brining effective change to their world. This has to change if we are to fulfill the Great Commission of Christ. The first step is to stop trying to figure out exactly what’s going to happen and instead trust and obey Jesus no matter what circumstances come our way. 

In Matthew 24, Jesus gives His followers seven commands as a rough guide to navigate the coming destruction of the Jewish temple in 70 AD. I believe the underlying principles offer modern readers a guide on maintaining optimism in light of Christ’s return. Jesus does not answer His disciples' questions in regards to the specific timing of these events; this is purposely left uncertain. However, He does proceed to warn them, tending to promote caution more than to satisfy curiosity. His priority is their internal response to upcoming events not the details of the events themselves. He guides His followers away from dangerous speculation and into practical obedience, giving clear commands to prepare them for what is to come.

1. Don’t be deceived.

Jesus tells us to not be misled by misrepresentation of truth. He cautions His disciples to stand guard against false teachers. These false teachers will pretend to come from God with new revelations that must be rejected. We must remain determined to never trust leaders teaching extra-biblical doctrine. At the core "false teaching” is any system or ideology that promotes any antidote to the human condition apart from Jesus Christ.

2. Don’t be troubled.

Jesus tells us not to be distressed mentally, physically or spiritually. When the heart is fixed, trusting in God, it is kept in perfect peace, and is not afraid even in troubled times. It is only when the heart is found in God that it finds true security, trusting that He is in control. Sustaining vibrant communion with God, both corporately and individually, is vitally important to dispel fear and to promote hope when things seem bleak. 

3. Endure to the end.

Jesus tells us to carry on despite what suffering may come our way. We must hold to our profession of faith, withstand any form of persecution, keep our doctrine pure, and worship Jesus no matter the situation. Like Jesus and the great cloud of witnesses before us, we must patiently and courageously bear any afflictions that might beset us, enduring to the end of our race, knowing that God will make all things right in His time.

4. Preach the Gospel.

Jesus tells us to continue preaching His good news to the end of the earth. We can’t let doubt, insecurity, or rejection hinder the bold proclamation of the gospel. Holding on to hope, and persevering through hardship, we diligently work to transform people and communities. Jesus preached His gospel openly and publicly and commands His followers to do the same. He will not return until the gospel has completed its full work.

5. Be ready.

Jesus tells us to prepare for the day of His return. Let us make our calling and election sure. We will stand before God and give an account of our life. This should be all we need to know to motivate us to live rightly. The Bible is clear that there are no opportunities for bargaining once the time has come. Our Lord's coming will be a happy day for all those who are prepared, but a dreadful one for those who aren’t.

6. Stay faithful.

Jesus tells us to be found doing the work of the Lord. Engage in doing the will of God by serving His church and spreading His fame in all the earth. We should be found selflessly loving others, leading them to repentance and faith in Christ. Faithfulness includes all the appropriate duties and disciplines of a Christian including bible study, prayer, fellowship, worship, evangelism, service, and generosity.

7. Watch and pray.

Jesus tells us to stay awake, stay alert, and stay eager for His return. We are to be vigilant in staying in tune with the Holy Spirit through prayer. Prayer is one of the greatest privileges and responsibilities of the Christian life, allowing us to connect with God and to intercede for His church. May we be a people who never become dull or apathetic in prayer. A Christian who prayers transforms nations.

In conclusion, we must learn to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ, especially the ones in regards to the “end times” that play on our fears and emotions. If Satan can cause Christians to fret about the future and worry about our well-being, he can strip away our power and influence. The bottom line is this: you know you’re thinking properly about the end times when you’re hopeful, excited, and committed to effecting real change in the world.