THE SIGNS OF THE END TIMES

Title: THE SIGNS OF THE END TIMES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 24:3-14
Supporting Texts: 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Luke 21:25-28, Daniel 12:4, Revelation 6:1-8

INTRODUCTION:
The disciples asked Jesus about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. In response, Jesus outlined specific events that would signal the end times. This study examines these signs to help believers stay vigilant and prepared.

1. DECEPTION AND FALSE CHRISTS

One major sign of the end times is widespread deception and the rise of false messiahs.

a) Increase in False Teachers
Many will come in Christ’s name, claiming to be Him (Matthew 24:5).

b) Deception Among Believers
Even the elect can be deceived if not vigilant (Matthew 24:24).

c) Apostasy
Many will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits (1 Timothy 4:1).

d) Spiritual Discernment Needed
Believers must test all spirits and teachings (1 John 4:1).

e) Biblical Example:
Simon the sorcerer misled the people of Samaria (Acts 8:9-11).

2. WARS AND RUMOURS OF WARS

Conflicts and tensions between nations are signs of the end times.

a) Nation Rising Against Nation
Wars will be a common occurrence (Matthew 24:6-7a).

b) Political Instability
Nations will experience unrest and turmoil (Isaiah 19:2).

c) Fear of War
Fear will grip people due to escalating tensions (Luke 21:26).

d) Peace Will Be Elusive
treaties, conflicts will persist (1 Thessalonians 5:3).

e) Biblical Example:
Wars among ancient kingdoms as prophesied by Daniel (Daniel 11:40-45).

3. FAMINES, PESTILENCES, AND EARTHQUAKES

Natural disasters and plagues will increase as the end approaches.

a) Famine
Shortages of food and resources will become widespread (Revelation 6:5-6).

b) Pestilences
Outbreaks of diseases will cause fear and death (Luke 21:11).

c) Earthquakes in Diverse Places
Unprecedented seismic activities will occur globally (Matthew 24:7b).

d) Environmental Instability
Creation will groan under the weight of sin (Romans 8:22).

e) Biblical Example:
The famine during the reign of Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 41:53-57).

4. PERSECUTION AND HATRED OF BELIEVERS

Christians will face intense persecution for their faith in Christ.

a) Hatred for Christ’s Sake
Believers will be hated by all nations (Matthew 24:9).

b) Imprisonment and Death
Some will be imprisoned and martyred for their faith (Revelation 2:10).

c) Betrayal by Loved Ones
Families will betray one another due to faith (Matthew 10:21).

d) Endurance Required
Only those who endure to the end will be saved (Matthew 24:13).

e) Biblical Example:
The persecution of early Christians under Saul (Acts 8:1-3).

5. THE GOSPEL WILL BE PREACHED TO ALL NATIONS

The spread of the Gospel worldwide is a significant end-time sign.

a) Global Evangelism
The Gospel will reach every nation before the end (Matthew 24:14).

b) Increased Missionary Work
God will raise missionaries for the unreached (Romans 10:14-15).

c) Technology in Evangelism
Media and technology will play a key role in spreading the Word (Psalm 19:4).

d) God’s Patience for Salvation
The delay in Christ’s return allows more people to repent (2 Peter 3:9).

e) Biblical Example:
Paul’s missionary journeys spread the Gospel across nations (Acts 13-28).

CONCLUSION:
The signs of the end times are evident today. As believers, we must remain vigilant, steadfast in faith, and committed to spreading the Gospel. These signs are not meant to cause fear but to prepare us for Christ’s imminent return.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me stay alert and watchful for Your return.

2. Father, grant me discernment to recognise false teachings.

3. Lord, strengthen me to endure trials and persecutions.

4. Father, use me as a vessel to spread the Gospel.

5. Lord, protect me from the fear of end-time events.

6. Father, help me prioritise heavenly things over earthly distractions.

7. Lord, empower me to stand firm in faith despite challenges.

8. Father, grant me boldness to share the Gospel without fear.

9. Lord, prepare my heart for Your coming.

10. Father, may I be found faithful at Your return.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will not be deceived by false teachers.

2. You will stand firm in your faith until the end.

3. The Lord will preserve you through every trial and persecution.

4. You will be a light, spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

5. Fear will not dominate your heart; you will walk in peace.

6. Your faith will remain unshakable in the face of end-time events.

7. The Lord will use you mightily in His end-time agenda.

8. You will endure and receive the crown of life.

9. The Lord will shield you from every end-time calamity.

10. You will be raptured and reign with Christ in glory.