Matt 24:7-8 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains. Ever since the fall of man there have been wars, famines, earthquakes and other such calamities which have plagues humanity. Sorrow, heartache, tears, pain, and suffering have been the birthright of Adam’s fallen race. Persecution, betrayal, deception, and hatred have been the specific inheritance of God’s people. Each is tragic on its own, but does not necessarily constitute anything unique. What we are to look for is when these types of things begin to increase is scope and frequency. Just like a woman during her pregnancy will have pains throughout, they are not a sign that the baby is due until these pains come closer together and increase in intensity. As they progress, everyone knows that the birth is drawing nigh. This is how these signs work. The world is writhing in pain, waiting for the “manifestation of the sons of God” (Rom 8:19); waiting for the time when Jesus will return and establish His perfect kingdom. While we wait, the birth pains of this fallen world continue on. However, when we see one piling on top of another, becoming greater and greater in their range, that is when we sit up and take notice. What has happened in the last century? 2 World Wars and countless other conflicts have killed more people than all the previous wars combined. Six million Jews perish at the hand of Hitler. 40 million killed by Stalin. Earthquakes, tsunamis, and other natural disasters continue to rise. Famines of unprecedented scope occur. Persecution of Christians worldwide is increasing. These birth pains are gaining in strength and proximity. All this tells us that Christ is getting ready to split the eastern sky! Our instruction as Christians is not to fear, not to be deceived, not to grow lax, but instead stand ready, being about the Master’s business, with our heads lifted up, for our redemption is drawing nigh. May our prayer and hope be that of Rev. 22:20, “Even so come, Lord Jesus!” I can’t wait for this baby to be born! How about you?
Posted on: Thu, 20 Mar 2014 12:03:43 +0000
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