Do you like to keep informed of what is happening in your community and in the world in general? Some people do, but others find themselves getting too distressed by what they hear. They allow the news of wars, crime, and natural disasters to make them too upset. Others, though, like to keep informed of what is happening, whether it is good news or bad. In our Scripture today as we continue on through the Gospel of Luke, we read of the Lord Jesus foretelling us of future events, virtually all of it not being good news. However, He does close this passage with a positive note for His audience. Let’s see what He has to say.
Our Scripture is part of what is called the Olivet Discourse. This took place a couple of days after Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, commonly called Palm Sunday. In answer to His disciples' questions, Jesus foretold of many events that will precede His Second Coming, His return to earth. As our passage begins, Jesus and His disciples were walking by the Temple in Jerusalem (vs. 5-6). They pointed out to Him the architectural beauty of the building. This was the Second Temple built by Zerubbabel, as the first one was destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar. King Herod made many grand and beautiful renovations to this building, and the disciples were pointing them out to Jesus. The Lord responded by telling them that this Temple, like the first one, would be destroyed, which happened approximately forty years later in 70 AD. Though there is certainly nothing wrong with architecturally beautiful buildings, or any other nice things, we need to remember that earthly glory and human achievement are temporary, and we must set our hopes on eternal things (Colossians 3:1-2).
The disciples were probably surprised to hear this, and though they didn’t question that this would happen, they did wonder when it would happen. Jesus proceeded to answer, telling them of other events that would precede His return (vs. 7-11). He warned of deception, of wars, and natural disasters that would come. These are warnings that we, today, need to be alert for, as well as the disciples did.
First, Jesus warned of false messiahs and religious leaders who will try to lead people astray with their false teachings (vs. 8). The world today is filled with religious fakes and frauds who are masters of deceit. They serve up their detestable lies, camouflaged by logical sounding phrases. Deception comes in convincing fashion, wearing the cloak of authenticity. It might sound intelligent, and is usually very popular. Millions are duped into swallowing the lies, thinking it is the truth. Being warned about this ahead of time, believers must discern truth from deception, anchoring themselves in Scripture rather than sensational claims.
Jesus continued by warning of wars, nations rising against nations, along with natural disasters in the future (vs. 9-11). We hear of these happening all the time, and these are the “birth pangs”, but not the end itself (Matthew 24:7-8). They are precursors, pointing towards the Tribulation and Jesus’ Second Coming. Sometimes some people get overwhelmed and filled with fear by it all. Jesus, though, tells us not to be terrified of this.
The Bible talks about many natural disasters happening, and those who listen to the news hear of frequent earthquakes around the world, along with other disasters. We do not need to worry, though. God is in control. He is always in control. The psalmist said in Psalm 46:1-2 that even if the mountains fall into the sea, we do not need to fear. God sent His Son to save us, so He’s not going to leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). He will do what is right and best for us.
Jesus also warned that there will be persecution of those who follow Him (vs. 12-15). Believers will be brought before political leaders and sent to prison. We should look at this not as a defeat, but as an opportunity to witness for the Lord. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit will equip us to speak boldly for Him. He warned that we may be betrayed by those we thought were friends and by family members, and that the world will hate us because of our faith in Him (vs. 16-19). Though Christians may suffer physically, even unto death, our eternal security in Jesus is guaranteed. He promised that no one can pluck us out of God’s hand (John 10:28-29).
What can overcome fear? Nothing but hope. Our hope is that our redemption draws near. Jesus will not desert us. Earthly structures may fall, but God’s kingdom endures. Though we will be hated for our faith, and maybe even harmed, our eternal life is secure. We can comfort one another with the promises of Jesus. He will return. He said it, and He is no liar.
No comments:
Post a Comment