Ask the Pastor

By Pastor Scott Denham of Harvest Fellowship, Shambaugh, IA

Clarinda Herald Journal Publication Date : 12/13/2006

 

The End of the World

 

            I am really worried about how the world is going to end—what is the [book of] Revelation really talking about?

            It is easy in our day where “sin abounds,” where terrorism is rampant, and where rogue countries possess nuclear technologies, to conclude that imminent disaster looms on the horizon of human history. What helps me keep this in perspective is a comment I heard a comedian say: “Jesus is coming back to the earth, so there must be an earth for Him to come back to!” Many are the plans of mice and men, but it is the will of God that will decide the future history of the world.

            The book of Revelation contains both literal and allegorical language. At some points, it speaks very plainly; at others the reader is left to ponder mystery. Christians have interpreted Revelation in various ways across the centuries. Some have seen it as a description of historical events within the Roman Empire during the early church age. Others have understood it to describe the end of the world as we know it. In spite of their differences, however, all Christians agree that the Scriptures clearly teach that Christ is coming again to judge all men (2 Tim  4:1), to take His followers to be with Him forever (John 14:3), and—yes—to end this world and begin the next (2 Pet 3:13).

            The book of Revelation is both a terrifying and comforting book. It terrifies because it records the dire end of all those who do not believe in Jesus. Numerous warnings address those who do not obey the Lord nor repent  of sin (Rev 3:3). Nonetheless, six times, the book declares us “blessed” if we heed the warnings, and persist in faith and obedience (Rev 14:12).

            In truth, God intends this book to provoke a varied response: fear and uncertainty in those who continue in sin, peace and assurance to those who follow the Lord. However, we need not suffer His just wrath since He freely extends salvation to all who will believe and follow.

            Two verses give particularly clear insight into the heart of God concerning the coming judgment. First, Lamentations 3:33 says, “He does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men.” Commentators understand this to mean that God’s desire to bring salvation to man far exceeds His desire to judge. He wants to save, but He will not force us to follow. Though reluctant to judge, judgment is unavoidable to the unrepentant because Christ’s sacrifice upon the cross—our only means of salvation—is neglected or rejected, and self-devotion pursued.

            Secondly, 2 Peter 3:9 reads, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” The world with all its evil and hatred deserves judgment, but God forestalls judgment so that more may come to faith. To all mankind He says, “Come,” while there is still time (Rev 22:17).

            --Pastor Scott (www.askpastorscott.com)