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God, Jesus, Is Critical For Humans Living In The End Times
Book
14 - in the “God’s
Truth” Series
God,
Jesus, Is Critical For Humans Living In The End Times
We
Need Our Good Father, Our Good Shepherd To Guide Us, Absolutely – Because God
is The Only One Who Truly Cares For Us, & Who Is Capable of Guiding Us To
An Actual Good Life – That Also Leads To Heaven.
By Mr. Elijah J Stone
and the Team Success Network
Table
of Contents
Part 1 – Why We Need God and Jesus in the End Times....................... 1
Chapter 1 – The Reality of the End Times............................................. 1
Chapter 2 – The Deception of Satan and the World............................... 1
Chapter 3 – The Limits of Human Strength and Goodness..................... 1
Chapter 4 – God as Our Good Father Who Truly Cares.......................... 1
Chapter 5 – Jesus as the Good Shepherd Who Guides His Sheep........... 1
Part 2 – How God and Jesus Lead Us to Life........................................ 1
Chapter 6 – Hearing and Following the Shepherd’s Voice...................... 1
Chapter 7 – Living Under the Father’s Care and Discipline..................... 1
Chapter 8 – The Cross as the Only Way to Salvation.............................. 1
Chapter 9 – Walking in the Spirit to Overcome Darkness....................... 1
Chapter 10 – The Church as a Family Guided by Christ.......................... 1
Part 3 – Preparing for Eternity With God............................................. 1
Chapter 11 – Standing Firm Against End-Time Deception...................... 1
Chapter 12 – Living a Life That Pleases God, Not Ourselves................... 1
Chapter 13 – The Hope of Heaven as Our Eternal Home........................ 1
Chapter 14 – The Return of Jesus as King and Judge............................. 1
Chapter 15 – Eternal Life With Our Good Father and Shepherd............. 1
Part 1 – Why We
Need God and Jesus in the End Times
The world is filled with uncertainty, and the Bible warns that in
the last days deception will grow stronger. People will call wrong things right
and right things wrong, making it harder to know what is true. On our own, we
are not strong enough to face these challenges or resist the confusion around
us.
God does not leave us to figure it out alone. He is a Good Father
who truly cares for His children, offering love, guidance, and correction that
protects us from harm. His care is steady and unshakable, even when the world
feels unstable.
Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd who leads His sheep. Without
Him, we are lost and vulnerable, but with Him, we are guided to safety. His
voice cuts through the noise of the world and directs us toward the path of
life.
In these times, depending on God as Father and Jesus as Shepherd
is not optional—it is critical. They are the only ones who truly know the way
to life, both here on earth and forever in Heaven.
Chapter 1 – The Reality of the End Times
Why These Days Are Unlike Any Other
Understanding the Signs and Why They Matter for You
The World
in Crisis
When we
look around at the world today, we can sense something is shifting. Wars,
disasters, broken families, financial instability, and increasing corruption
seem to multiply everywhere we turn. People are searching for answers but are
often led into greater confusion. The Bible makes it clear—these are not just
random problems. They are signs pointing to the reality of the end times.
Jesus
warned in Matthew 24:12, “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of
most will grow cold.” That is exactly what we see happening. Compassion is
fading. People are more self-focused, suspicious, and afraid. The world feels
unstable, and deep down, most people know something big is unfolding.
But here’s
the good news: God has not left us clueless or hopeless. He told us in advance
that these days would come, not to scare us, but to prepare us. By listening to
His voice and trusting Jesus, we can stand firm even in the midst of chaos.
Key Truth: God reveals the reality of the end times
so His children will not be caught off guard but will stand strong in faith.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical Now
In times
like these, human solutions cannot fix the root problems. Governments make
promises but fail. Money brings temporary relief but not lasting security.
Technology improves convenience but cannot bring true peace. Humanity’s wisdom
always falls short.
This is
why God is critical. Only He sees the full picture of history and eternity.
Only He knows how to lead us safely through deception. And only Jesus, the Good
Shepherd, is able to guide His sheep when wolves prowl nearby.
Jesus said
in John 10:27, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow
me.” In the end times, when so many voices shout for attention, His voice
is the only one that matters. Without Him, we are lost and vulnerable. With
Him, we are protected and led into life.
The
Father’s love and the Shepherd’s care are our lifeline. They are not optional
add-ons; they are essential for survival and for eternal life.
Key Truth: Without God’s help, we would be swallowed
by deception, but with Jesus, we can walk safely into eternity.
Signs of
the End Times
The Bible
describes clear signs that point to the last days. These are not guesses—they
are God’s warnings so we know what to watch for.
• Increase
in deception – Many false teachers and false messiahs will rise up (Matthew
24:24).
• Widespread conflict – Wars and rumors of wars will spread across the earth
(Matthew 24:6).
• Natural disasters – Earthquakes, famines, and plagues will become more
frequent (Luke 21:11).
• Growing lawlessness – Wickedness will increase, and many will lose their love
for others (Matthew 24:12).
• Persecution of believers – Followers of Jesus will be hated for His name
(Matthew 24:9).
When we
see these things happening, it reminds us that the Bible is accurate and
trustworthy. The world may dismiss them, but God’s Word never fails.
Each of
these signs shows us how desperately we need God’s protection and direction.
Without Him, these events would overwhelm us. With Him, we see clearly, and we
walk with confidence.
Key Truth: The signs of the end times are not meant
to terrify us but to point us back to God as our only safe place.
The Limits
of Human Strength
One of the
greatest dangers in the end times is believing we can handle life without God.
Many people think their knowledge, money, or strength is enough to survive. But
the Bible says in Isaiah 64:6, “All our righteous acts are like filthy
rags.”
In other
words, even our best efforts cannot meet God’s standard. Human solutions may
seem wise for a moment, but they cannot save us from sin, deception, or eternal
separation from God. That is why we need Jesus so desperately.
Only Jesus
has the power to save us. He lived the perfect life we could not live, died the
death we deserved, and rose again to give us eternal hope. In the end times,
human pride will fail, but Jesus never will.
Key Truth: Our strength is not enough—but His
strength is more than enough.
The
Father’s Care in Uncertain Times
In a world
full of fear, God shows Himself as a Good Father. He does not abandon His
children. He provides, protects, and disciplines with love so that His people
stay on the right path.
Hebrews
12:6 says, “The Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone
he accepts as his son.” His correction may feel uncomfortable, but it is
proof that we belong to Him. In the end times, His fatherly care keeps us
steady when everything else is shaking.
The world
offers false fathers—political leaders, philosophies, or movements that promise
safety but fail. Only God’s love lasts forever. Only His care leads to eternal
life.
Key Truth: Knowing God as Father gives us peace,
identity, and stability in the most unstable times.
Jesus, the
Good Shepherd
Jesus
describes Himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep
(John 10:11). This image is powerful. Sheep without a shepherd scatter, starve,
or fall into danger. But with a shepherd, they are fed, guided, and safe.
In the end
times, deception is everywhere. But the Shepherd’s voice leads His sheep on the
narrow road that leads to life (Matthew 7:14). He knows each of His followers
by name, and He walks with them through every valley.
Without
Jesus, we would be lost in confusion and fear. With Him, we find clarity and
peace. His voice is steady when the world is chaotic.
Key Truth: The Good Shepherd never abandons His
sheep—He guides them home to eternal safety.
The Danger
of Deception
The Bible
says in Revelation 12:9 that Satan “leads the whole world astray.” This is his
strategy: twist truth, disguise lies, and make people believe they don’t need
God. In the end times, his deception becomes even stronger.
This is
why God and Jesus are critical. On our own, we would fall for the lies. But
God’s Word exposes deception, and Jesus’ voice cuts through the noise. By
staying close to Him, we see clearly.
2
Thessalonians 2:10 says that many will perish because they refused to love the
truth. The choice is simple: believe the lies of the enemy or cling to the
truth of God.
Key Truth: Only God’s truth can keep us from being
deceived in the end times.
Standing
in Hope
Though the
end times are filled with warnings, they are also filled with hope. God
promises that His children are not abandoned. He gives them His Spirit to guide
them and His Word to strengthen them.
Jesus says
in Matthew 28:20, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
This promise means that no matter how dark the times get, His presence will
never leave us.
The end
times remind us that we need God more than ever. But they also remind us that
God is more than enough for every trial. He is the Good Father who cares and
the Good Shepherd who leads.
Key Truth: The end times are not the end of hope—they
are the beginning of God’s final victory.
Conclusion
– Why God and Jesus Are Our Only Hope
The
reality of the end times is not something to ignore or fear. It is a reminder
of our need for God. The Bible paints a clear picture: the world will become
more unstable, deception will increase, and human pride will fail. But in the
middle of it all, God’s love and Jesus’ guidance remain steady.
Only God
can protect us from deception. Only Jesus can guide us through the chaos. They
are critical for our survival in the end times, not just physically but
eternally. Without them, we are lost. With them, we are safe forever.
This
chapter lays the foundation for everything that follows. The end times are
real. The signs are all around us. And the only way to stand firm is to cling
to our Good Father and our Good Shepherd.
Key Truth: The reality of the end times shows us just
how critical God and Jesus are for every human life—now and forever.
Chapter 2 – The Deception of Satan and the
World
Why the Father of Lies Is More Active in the
Last Days
How Only God’s Truth Can Keep Us From Being Misled
Satan’s
Goal: Confusion and Separation
From the
very beginning, Satan’s main weapon has been deception. Jesus called him the
“father of lies” in John 8:44. His strategy is always the same: twist God’s
truth, plant doubt, and make sin appear attractive. In the Garden of Eden, he
deceived Eve by questioning what God said. In the end times, his goal is still
to lead people away from God.
Revelation
12:9 describes Satan as the one “who leads the whole world astray.” He doesn’t
just mislead a few people—he aims to deceive nations, cultures, and entire
generations. His lies are subtle, often packaged as wisdom, freedom, or
progress.
This is
why God and Jesus are critical for us in the end times. Without God’s truth, we
would not be able to tell the difference between lies and truth. Without Jesus,
our Good Shepherd, we would follow whatever voice sounds convincing, not
realizing it leads to destruction.
Key Truth: Satan’s ultimate plan is to separate
humans from God. Only God’s truth and Jesus’ guidance can keep us safe.
The
World’s Empty Promises
The world
constantly tells us we don’t need God. Culture teaches us that success, money,
or human wisdom will bring happiness. But these promises are empty. They may
bring temporary comfort, but they cannot fill the deep need of the human heart.
1 John
2:16 says, “For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of
the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”
These distractions may look good, but they are traps. They keep people from
depending on God and lead them into destruction instead of life.
In the end
times, the world’s messages will grow louder and more convincing. False
teachings will tell people that all religions are the same, or that we are
strong enough to save ourselves. But apart from God, there is no life.
This is
why we need Jesus. He said in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the
life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” No worldly idea or
philosophy can replace Him.
Key Truth: The world’s wisdom sounds appealing, but
only Jesus offers the truth that leads to eternal life.
Why
Deception Will Increase in the End Times
The Bible
warns us that deception will intensify as history moves closer to the return of
Christ. 2 Timothy 4:3–4 says, “For the time will come when people will not
put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will
gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears
want to hear.”
In the end
times, many will reject truth because it feels uncomfortable. They will prefer
lies that make them feel good. Satan will use this hunger for comfort and
self-pleasing to spread more false teachings.
We can
already see this happening. Many churches water down the truth of Scripture to
fit cultural trends. Many people create a “custom faith” that ignores the cross
and obedience to God. But partial truth is still deception.
God and
Jesus are critical here because they never change. Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus
Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” His truth remains
solid, even when the world shifts.
Key Truth: The closer we get to the end, the more
deception will rise—but God’s Word stands unshaken.
The Danger
of Self-Sufficiency
Another
form of deception in the end times is the belief that we don’t need God because
we are “good enough” on our own. This is one of Satan’s favorite lies. If he
can make people trust in themselves, he knows they won’t rely on Jesus.
Proverbs
14:12 warns, “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it
leads to death.” Many people believe their goodness, morality, or
achievements will get them into Heaven. But without Christ, none of it is
enough.
This is
why Jesus is essential. He came because we could not save ourselves. Our human
strength and wisdom cannot remove sin or defeat death. Only His sacrifice on
the cross gives us life.
In the end
times, more people will boast in their own strength, but those who rely on God
will stand firm. The Good Father and the Good Shepherd are the only ones
capable of guiding us safely through pride and into humility.
Key Truth: Human pride blinds us, but Jesus opens our
eyes to the truth.
Recognizing
the Voice of the Shepherd
In John
10:27, Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they
follow me.” This is one of the most important truths for surviving
deception in the end times. There will be many voices calling for attention,
but only one voice leads to life.
The voice
of the Shepherd always aligns with Scripture. He never contradicts God’s Word.
That is why we must know the Bible—it trains our ears to recognize His truth.
When we
stay close to God, His Spirit helps us discern what is real and what is false.
Without Him, we would fall for every clever idea or emotional teaching. With
Him, we have clarity.
The
Shepherd doesn’t just speak—He protects. He warns us when danger is near, and
He leads us on paths of righteousness. Following His voice is not optional; it
is critical.
Key Truth: Hearing and following Jesus’ voice is the
only way to stay safe from deception in the end times.
How
Deception Disguises Itself
Deception
doesn’t usually appear as obvious evil. Instead, it disguises itself as light.
2 Corinthians 11:14 says, “Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.”
His lies often sound spiritual, compassionate, or reasonable on the surface.
That’s why
discernment is so important. Without God’s Spirit, it’s easy to be tricked.
False teachings may include just enough truth to sound convincing, but they
lead away from Jesus.
For
example, many modern messages focus only on God’s love but ignore His holiness.
Others talk about positive thinking but never mention repentance or the cross.
These half-truths are dangerous because they remove the very things that bring
salvation.
God’s Word
cuts through the disguise. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, always points us back to
the full truth—love, grace, holiness, and repentance. That’s why staying close
to Him is essential.
Key Truth: Deception looks like light, but it is
darkness in disguise. Only Jesus reveals the full truth.
Why God’s
Word Is Our Anchor
Psalm
119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet, a light on my path.” In a
dark and deceptive world, God’s Word is the light that keeps us from stumbling.
It shows us what is true and helps us recognize what is false.
In the end
times, when truth is distorted, the Bible becomes even more critical. It
doesn’t just inform us—it transforms us. Reading Scripture regularly trains us
to think with God’s perspective instead of the world’s.
Jesus
Himself used Scripture to resist Satan’s lies in the wilderness (Matthew
4:1–11). He showed us that God’s Word is our greatest weapon against deception.
Without
the Bible, we are defenseless. With it, we are equipped. God’s truth gives us
confidence to stand firm in a world full of lies.
Key Truth: God’s Word is our anchor when deception
tries to sweep us away.
God and
Jesus: Our Only Protection
At the
heart of this chapter is one central truth: without God and Jesus, humans
cannot survive the deception of the end times. We are too easily swayed, too
easily blinded, and too easily distracted.
But with
God, we are protected. With Jesus, we are guided. He is the Good Shepherd who
knows His sheep by name and leads them into life. The Father’s love surrounds
us, and His Spirit strengthens us.
The
deception of Satan and the world is real and powerful. But it is no match for
the truth of God. Those who stay close to Him will not be overcome.
Key Truth: Deception is strong, but God is stronger.
The Good Father and the Good Shepherd are our only hope in the end times.
Chapter 3 – The Limits of Human Strength and
Goodness
Why Our Efforts Can Never Be Enough
How Only Jesus Bridges the Gap Between Us and God
Human
Efforts Always Fall Short
Many
people believe they are “good enough” without God. They assume being kind,
moral, or generous is all that is required. But the Bible gives us a sobering
reality: our goodness cannot measure up to God’s perfect holiness. Isaiah 64:6
says, “All our righteous acts are like filthy rags.”
This
doesn’t mean good deeds are worthless—it means they cannot save us. Compared to
God’s standard of holiness, even our best intentions fall short. Sin is not
just about doing wrong things—it is about falling short of God’s perfection.
In the end
times, this lie will become even stronger. Many will say, “I don’t need God,
I’m a good person.” But goodness without Jesus is not enough.
Self-righteousness blinds us to our true need.
Key Truth: Our goodness is not enough. Only God’s
holiness defines what is acceptable, and only Jesus makes us holy.
Why This
Truth Is Actually Good News
At first,
realizing our efforts are not enough can feel discouraging. But this truth is
not meant to crush us—it is meant to free us. God knows we cannot save
ourselves, so He sent Jesus to do what we could never do.
Romans
3:23–24 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and
all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by
Christ Jesus.” Salvation is not something we earn—it is a gift.
This is
good news because it removes the crushing weight of performance. We don’t have
to wonder if we are “good enough” to get into Heaven. Jesus has already paid
the price. His perfect life, death on the cross, and resurrection opened the
door for us to receive eternal life.
In the end
times, when the world pressures us to prove ourselves, we rest in what Jesus
has already done. Our confidence is not in self but in Christ.
Key Truth: The gospel frees us from striving for
goodness on our own—it gives us the gift of salvation through Jesus.
Pride in
the End Times
The Bible
warns that pride will increase in the last days. 2 Timothy 3:1–2 says, “But
mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers
of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their
parents, ungrateful, unholy…” Pride is one of the strongest marks of the
end times.
Pride
makes us believe we don’t need God. It convinces us that our skills, knowledge,
or accomplishments can carry us through. Pride blinds us to our weaknesses and
makes us trust in human wisdom instead of God’s.
But
Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before
a fall.” Pride is not just dangerous—it is deadly. It causes us to ignore
God, and ignoring God leads to eternal separation.
This is
why God and Jesus are critical in the end times. Pride will deceive many into
rejecting Him. But those who humble themselves before Christ will find true
strength and eternal life.
Key Truth: Pride leads to destruction, but humility
in Christ leads to life.
Why Our
Strength Will Fail
Human
strength is temporary. No matter how strong, wealthy, or intelligent someone
is, time and life eventually prove our limits. Bodies grow weak, wealth fades,
and wisdom changes with every new trend. Human strength cannot last.
Jeremiah
17:5 says, “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from
mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord.” Trusting in ourselves
or in others instead of God leads to disappointment and ruin.
In the end
times, many will put their faith in technology, medicine, governments, or even
religious leaders instead of God. While some of these things may help
temporarily, none of them can save the human soul. None of them can protect us
from deception or bring eternal life.
That is
why Jesus is so critical. He never fails. His power is eternal, and His
promises are unshakable. Where human strength collapses, His strength carries
us.
Key Truth: Human strength will fail, but Jesus’
strength never does.
Jesus: The
Perfect Substitute
God’s
solution for our weakness was Jesus. He did what no human could ever do—He
lived a perfect life without sin. He became the perfect substitute for us,
taking our punishment on the cross so we could be forgiven.
2
Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so
that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” This exchange is the
heart of the gospel. Jesus took our sin and gave us His righteousness.
This
matters especially in the end times, when false religions and philosophies will
tell people there are many ways to God. The Bible makes it clear: there is only
one way. Acts 4:12 says, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no
other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
Only Jesus
bridges the gap between us and God. Our strength cannot save us, but His
sacrifice already has.
Key Truth: Jesus is the only substitute who makes us
right with God—our goodness will never be enough.
Why
Dependence on God Is Freedom
Many
people believe depending on God is weakness. They think true strength means
being independent. But the truth is the opposite. Dependence on God is freedom,
because it connects us to the only source of lasting strength.
Isaiah
40:29–31 says, “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of
the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but
those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings
like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be
faint.”
Dependence
on God doesn’t make us weaker—it makes us stronger than we could ever be on our
own. He gives us power to endure trials, resist temptation, and walk in faith.
In the end
times, when pressure and persecution increase, our only hope is dependence on
Him. Our Good Father gives strength, and our Good Shepherd leads us. That is
true freedom.
Key Truth: Depending on God is not weakness—it is the
greatest strength a human can have in the end times.
The
Example of Paul
The
Apostle Paul is a powerful example of someone who understood the limits of
human strength. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, God told him, “My grace is sufficient
for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Paul responded, “Therefore
I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power
may rest on me.”
Paul
realized that his weaknesses were not something to hide but something that
revealed God’s power. When he was weak, God was strong. This principle is vital
for the end times.
As
challenges grow, our human abilities will not be enough. But God’s grace will
be sufficient for every trial. Just like Paul, we can rest in Christ’s strength
instead of our own.
Key Truth: God’s power shines brightest when our
strength runs out.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
When the
Bible describes the end times, it does not present humanity as able to save
itself. Instead, it shows humans deceived, proud, and self-sufficient—exactly
when they need God most.
Without
God’s truth, we would be blind to our weakness. Without Jesus, we would remain
lost in sin. But with them, we see clearly. With them, we have hope, strength,
and eternal life.
Our
strength is limited. Our goodness is not enough. But God’s love and Jesus’
sacrifice are more than enough. They are the only hope for humanity in the last
days.
Key Truth: In the end times, human strength
collapses—but God’s strength through Jesus sustains us forever.
Chapter 4 – God as Our Good Father Who Truly
Cares
Why His Love Never Fails, Even in the Darkest
Days
How the Father’s Care Keeps Us Safe in the End Times
God Is Not
Distant
Many
people imagine God as cold, distant, or harsh. Some see Him as a strict ruler
waiting to punish, while others think He is too far away to care about their
daily struggles. But the Bible reveals a completely different picture: God is a
Good Father who loves His children deeply.
1 John 3:1
says, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be
called children of God!” This is not the love of a dictator but of a parent
whose heart is tender toward His children. He provides, protects, and guides,
not out of obligation but out of love.
In the end
times, when fear and confusion spread, this truth becomes more important than
ever. Knowing God as Father gives us peace in the storm. He is not far away—He
is near, watching over His children.
Key Truth: God is not a distant ruler; He is a caring
Father who loves His children deeply, especially in the end times.
A Father
Who Provides
A good
father ensures his children have what they need. Jesus reminded us in Matthew
6:26, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away
in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more
valuable than they?”
God sees
our needs and provides for us, even in times of lack. In the end times, when
resources grow scarce and uncertainty rises, His provision becomes our
lifeline. He is not limited by the economy, politics, or global instability.
His supply comes from Heaven.
This is
why trusting God is so critical. The world promises security through money,
government, or technology, but none of these can guarantee lasting provision.
Only God can.
Key Truth: In the end times, when worldly systems
fail, God remains the faithful Father who provides for His children.
A Father
Who Protects
Another
role of a good father is protection. Psalm 91:4 says, “He will cover you
with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness
will be your shield and rampart.” God does not leave His children
defenseless—He shields them from danger.
In the end
times, threats will grow. Persecution will rise against believers, natural
disasters will increase, and fear will spread. But God’s protection is stronger
than any threat. He doesn’t promise to remove all trials, but He promises to
guard His children through them.
Without
God’s protection, we are vulnerable. Satan roams like a roaring lion, seeking
someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). But with God, we are safe under His covering.
Jesus said in John 10:28, “No one will snatch them out of my hand.”
Key Truth: The Father’s protection is stronger than
any threat in the end times—His children are safe in His care.
A Father
Who Guides
A loving
father not only provides and protects but also guides. Proverbs 3:5–6 says, “Trust
in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all
your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” God knows
the way forward, even when life feels uncertain.
In the end
times, the world is filled with deception and false paths. Many will wander
into traps because they follow their own wisdom or listen to lies. Without
God’s guidance, people will be lost.
This is
why Jesus, our Good Shepherd, is also critical. His voice cuts through the
confusion, leading us on the narrow path that leads to life. God as Father
doesn’t leave His children wandering—He directs them step by step.
Key Truth: In the end times, God’s guidance is not
optional—it is the only way to stay on the path that leads to life.
The
Discipline of a Loving Father
A true
father also corrects his children. Hebrews 12:6 says, “The Lord disciplines
the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
Discipline is not punishment; it is love in action. It shapes us, keeps us from
harm, and draws us closer to Him.
In the end
times, when so many drift into rebellion, God’s discipline is even more vital.
His correction keeps us from being swept away by deception. It reminds us that
we belong to Him and that His way leads to life.
Without
God’s correction, we would go astray. Proverbs 3:11–12 says, “My son, do not
despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord
disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.”
Key Truth: The Father’s discipline is not to harm but
to protect and prepare us for eternity with Him.
False
Fathers of the World
The world
offers many “false fathers”—comforts, leaders, or ideologies that promise
security but cannot deliver. Governments claim to protect, wealth promises
stability, and philosophies promise wisdom. But none of these can give eternal
security.
Jesus
warned in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I
have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Satan uses
false fathers to distract people from the true Father. These counterfeits give
temporary comfort but lead to destruction.
In the end
times, these false fathers will become more convincing. People will put their
trust in them, only to be betrayed. But those who trust the Good Father will
find peace that no counterfeit can match.
Key Truth: The world’s false fathers cannot save
us—only God’s love is lasting and true.
The
Security of Knowing God as Father
When we
truly know God as Father, we find peace that nothing else can give. Romans 8:15
says, “The Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And
by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” This is not a cold, formal relationship—it
is intimate, warm, and secure.
In the end
times, fear will grip the hearts of many. People will panic as the world grows
darker. But God’s children will find security in their Father’s love. His care
is steady, even when everything else is falling apart.
Knowing
Him as Father means we don’t have to be afraid. His love keeps us steady, and
His presence brings us safely through every trial.
Key Truth: Knowing God as Father brings unshakable
peace in a shaking world.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
The
reality of the end times reveals our desperate need for God’s fatherly care.
Without Him, we are vulnerable to fear, deception, and false security. Without
Jesus, we are lost sheep without a shepherd.
But with
God, we are loved, provided for, protected, and guided. With Jesus, we hear the
Shepherd’s voice and follow Him into life. Together, the Father and the Son
give us everything we need to stand strong in the end times.
This is
not just about surviving—it is about living in the fullness of God’s love while
preparing for eternity.
Key Truth: In the end times, God’s care as Father and
Jesus’ guidance as Shepherd are the only way to stay safe and secure.
Chapter 5 – Jesus as the Good Shepherd Who
Guides His Sheep
Why His Voice Is Our Only Safe Direction
How the Shepherd’s Care Protects Us in the End Times
Sheep
Without a Shepherd
The Bible
often compares us to sheep. This is not an insult—it is a powerful picture of
our need for guidance. Sheep are gentle and valuable, but without a shepherd,
they wander, become lost, and fall into danger. They cannot defend themselves,
and they do not always recognize where safety lies.
Jesus
understood this and said in John 10:11, “I am the good shepherd. The good
shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” He was making a bold statement:
He is the one who cares for us, protects us, and leads us into life.
In the end
times, this image becomes even more vital. Deception and danger increase, and
without Jesus as our Shepherd, people are left vulnerable to wolves—false
teachers, worldly pressures, and Satan’s lies. Only His voice keeps us on the
right path.
Key Truth: Sheep without a shepherd scatter and
perish—but with Jesus, the Good Shepherd, we are guided into safety and eternal
life.
The
Shepherd Who Knows His Sheep
A good
shepherd doesn’t treat his sheep as a faceless crowd. He knows them
individually, calls them by name, and cares for each one. John 10:14 says, “I
am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.”
This means
that in a chaotic and impersonal world, you are not forgotten. Jesus sees you,
knows you, and calls you personally. His relationship with His people is not
distant—it is intimate and close.
In the end
times, when fear spreads and identities are confused, knowing that the Shepherd
knows you brings peace. While the world tries to define you by success,
failure, or appearance, Jesus calls you His own.
Key Truth: In the end times, when many feel lost and
unseen, the Good Shepherd knows His sheep by name and never forgets them.
The
Shepherd Who Lays Down His Life
Jesus
didn’t just claim to care for His sheep—He proved it by laying down His life.
John 10:15 says, “I lay down my life for the sheep.” Unlike a hired hand
who runs away when danger comes, Jesus stayed and gave everything to protect
His flock.
This
sacrifice is the ultimate reason we can trust Him. He faced the wolves of sin
and death, and He overcame them. His death and resurrection are proof that His
love is not shallow—it is deep, eternal, and unshakable.
In the end
times, when betrayal and abandonment increase, Jesus remains faithful. Leaders
may fail, systems may collapse, and friends may leave, but the Good Shepherd
never abandons His sheep.
Key Truth: The Shepherd’s love is proven by the
cross—He laid down His life so we could live forever.
Hearing
the Shepherd’s Voice
One of the
most critical truths about Jesus as Shepherd is that His sheep know His voice.
John 10:27 says, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow
me.”
This
matters because in the end times, many voices will call for our attention.
False teachers, media, political leaders, and cultural movements will all try
to guide us. Without discernment, people will follow voices that lead them into
destruction.
But the
Shepherd’s voice is clear to those who stay close to Him. His voice always
matches His Word. He never contradicts Scripture, and His Spirit confirms what
is true. Listening to Him keeps us safe.
Key Truth: In the end times, the only safe voice to
follow is the voice of the Good Shepherd.
The
Shepherd’s Protection
A shepherd
not only leads but also protects. Psalm 23:4 says, “Even though I walk
through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod
and your staff, they comfort me.” The shepherd’s rod defended against
predators, and the staff guided the sheep.
In the end
times, when spiritual wolves and dangers increase, Jesus defends His sheep. He
guards us against Satan’s attacks, warns us of traps, and leads us away from
danger. His protection is not just physical—it is spiritual and eternal.
Without
Him, we are vulnerable. But with Him, we can face trials without fear. He does
not promise an easy path, but He promises His presence and His protection all
the way home.
Key Truth: The Good Shepherd’s rod and staff protect
His sheep from every danger—even in the darkest times.
Following
Daily
Being
guided by the Shepherd is not a one-time decision—it is a daily commitment.
Luke 9:23 says, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and
take up their cross daily and follow me.” Sheep follow the shepherd step by
step, not just once and then wander off.
In the end
times, consistency is critical. Deception is strongest when people drift and
stop listening. But when we follow Jesus daily—through prayer, Scripture, and
obedience—we stay close to His side.
The
Shepherd doesn’t just show us the destination—He walks with us along the
journey. He knows where He is leading us, and every step brings us closer to
life.
Key Truth: Following Jesus daily is the only way to
stay close to the Shepherd in the end times.
Why Other
Voices Cannot Save
In a world
full of competing leaders and ideas, it is tempting to trust other voices.
Politicians, influencers, philosophers, or even religious figures may sound
wise, but they cannot save.
Jesus
warned in Matthew 7:15, “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in
sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” In the end
times, these wolves will multiply, pretending to care for people but leading
them to ruin.
Only Jesus
truly loves, truly protects, and truly saves. Other voices may offer temporary
solutions, but only the Shepherd offers eternal life.
Key Truth: No other leader or teacher can replace the
Good Shepherd—only Jesus can guide us safely home.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical in the End Times
This
entire picture of Jesus as the Good Shepherd shows us why God and Jesus are
critical for humans in the last days. Without them, we are scattered sheep,
vulnerable to deception and destruction. With them, we are guided, protected,
and brought into life.
The
Father’s love makes us His children, and the Shepherd’s care keeps us safe. In
the end times, when the world grows darker, these truths are not just
comforting—they are essential. Without the Shepherd, there is no safety. With
Him, there is eternal security.
The end
times are not just about surviving; they are about trusting the Shepherd who
knows the way home.
Key Truth: In the end times, only the Good Shepherd
can lead us through the chaos into eternal life with God.
Part 2 – How God and Jesus Lead Us to Life
God and
Jesus do not simply warn us about the end times; they actively lead us through
them. Their guidance is not distant or vague but personal and clear. The Good
Shepherd speaks, and His sheep learn to recognize His voice.
As a
loving Father, God not only provides for us but also shapes us. His correction
may feel difficult at times, but it protects us from straying into danger. His
care ensures that we grow strong and holy, even in uncertain times.
At the
center of our hope is the cross. Jesus gave His life so that we could be
forgiven and made right with God. No amount of human goodness could save us,
but His sacrifice secures our salvation.
Through
His Spirit and through the family of believers, God keeps us strong. We are
never meant to walk alone but to journey together, guided by Christ as the head
of His people. With Him, we find life in the midst of a world full of
confusion.
Chapter 6 – Hearing and Following the
Shepherd’s Voice
Why His Voice Is Our Guide in a World of Noise
How Listening to Jesus Protects Us in the End Times
The
Promise of the Shepherd’s Voice
Jesus made
a powerful statement in John 10:27: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know
them, and they follow me.” This is not just a comforting thought—it is a
survival truth for the end times. In a noisy world full of opinions,
ideologies, and distractions, hearing the Shepherd’s voice is the only way to
find clarity.
His voice
brings peace when fear surrounds us. It brings truth when lies multiply. It
brings direction when everything else feels uncertain. To belong to Jesus is to
recognize His voice and follow Him closely.
In the end
times, this is not optional—it is critical. Without Him, we are like sheep
wandering aimlessly in dangerous fields. With Him, we know where to go.
Key Truth: The voice of the Good Shepherd is the only
safe guide through the confusion of the end times.
Why Other
Voices Cannot Lead Us to Life
The world
is full of voices competing for attention. Leaders, influencers, and false
teachers all promise direction. Some may sound wise, others may sound
spiritual, but without Jesus, they lead to death.
Proverbs
14:12 warns, “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it
leads to death.” This is exactly how deception works. Satan doesn’t always
present outright evil—he disguises lies as truth. Without discernment, many
follow the wrong voices.
In the end
times, these voices grow louder. Technology spreads ideas faster, media
amplifies false narratives, and culture pressures us to follow popular
opinions. But none of these voices can provide eternal life.
Only
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, has proven His love by laying down His life for His
sheep. Only His voice leads us into safety and eternal hope.
Key Truth: Other voices may sound appealing, but only
the Shepherd’s voice leads to life.
How to
Recognize the Shepherd’s Voice
Jesus does
not leave His people guessing. His voice is recognizable and clear to those who
stay close to Him. But how do we learn to hear Him?
• Through
Scripture – God’s Word is the foundation of His voice. Jesus never
contradicts the Bible.
• Through Prayer – As we spend time with Him, we learn to recognize His
leading.
• Through the Holy Spirit – The Spirit confirms truth and convicts us
when something is false.
• Through Peace – The Shepherd’s voice brings peace, not confusion or
fear.
Hebrews
4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any
double-edged sword…” His Word cuts through confusion and helps us know His
voice from all others.
In the end
times, this training is vital. Without it, we will be swept away by every
trend. With it, we stand secure.
Key Truth: We recognize the Shepherd’s voice by
staying in Scripture, prayer, and the Spirit’s guidance.
The Danger
of Not Listening
Jesus also
warned about what happens when we ignore His voice. In John 10:5, He said, “They
will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they
do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” Sheep who don’t stay close to the
shepherd are easily stolen by wolves.
In the end
times, those who do not listen to Jesus are most vulnerable to deception. They
will follow voices that promise comfort, wealth, or even false peace, but those
paths lead to destruction.
Revelation
13 warns of a beast who deceives the nations with lies. Those who do not know
the Shepherd’s voice will fall into this trap. But those who belong to Him will
not be deceived, because they recognize truth.
This is
why God and Jesus are so critical. Without their guidance, we are defenseless.
With them, we are alert and prepared.
Key Truth: Not listening to the Shepherd’s voice
leaves us open to destruction in the end times.
His Voice
Brings Peace
In John
14:27, Jesus promised, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do
not give to you as the world gives.” The Shepherd’s voice is always marked
by peace. It may challenge us, but it never leads to panic or confusion.
The
world’s voices stir anxiety. News headlines fuel fear. Social media multiplies
division. But the Shepherd’s voice calms our hearts and points us back to
eternal truth.
In the end
times, when fear and chaos grow stronger, hearing His voice will become the
anchor of our souls. While others panic, His sheep will have peace that makes
no sense to the world.
Key Truth: The Shepherd’s voice always brings peace,
even in the storm of the end times.
The
Shepherd’s Voice and Daily Guidance
The
Shepherd doesn’t just speak once; He guides us daily. Psalm 23:3 says, “He
guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.” Sheep need constant
direction, and so do we.
This is
why following Jesus is a daily decision. Every morning we choose to tune our
ears to His voice instead of the world’s. Every day we choose to walk where He
leads, even when it requires faith.
In the end
times, this daily guidance is essential. We cannot rely on yesterday’s
obedience or last week’s prayer. We must follow Him step by step, day by day,
trusting His leadership completely.
Key Truth: The Shepherd’s voice is not just
occasional—it is daily guidance for every step of life.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
The truth
is simple: without God and Jesus, we cannot recognize the Shepherd’s voice.
Without them, we are deaf to truth and vulnerable to lies. But with them, our
ears are open, and our hearts are steady.
In the end
times, deception will be stronger than ever. Satan will disguise lies as light,
and the world will celebrate what is false. But those who follow Jesus will
stand firm. His voice will lead them through the chaos into life.
This is
why God as our Good Father and Jesus as our Good Shepherd are so critical. The
Father gives us identity and peace, and the Shepherd gives us daily guidance.
Together, they provide everything we need to endure the last days.
Key Truth: In the end times, only those who hear and
follow the Shepherd’s voice will remain safe and secure in God’s truth.
Chapter 7 – Living Under the Father’s Care and
Instruction
Why His Discipline Is Love, Not Rejection
How God’s Instruction Keeps Us Safe in the End Times
The
Father’s Love Is Strong
Many
people think of love as something soft, gentle, and easy. But real love is also
strong—it shapes, protects, and sometimes corrects. God’s love is like this. As
our Good Father, He doesn’t just comfort us—He instructs us so we grow into
holiness and maturity.
Hebrews
12:6 says, “The Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone
he accepts as his son.” This shows us something vital: God’s correction is
proof of His love. He disciplines not to harm but to protect and guide.
In the end
times, when temptation increases and deception spreads, His strong love becomes
even more critical. Without it, we would drift toward danger. With it, we stay
on the path of life.
Key Truth: The Father’s discipline is not
rejection—it is evidence of His love and care, especially in the end times.
Why
Instruction Is Necessary
Just as
children need parents to teach them right from wrong, we need God’s instruction
to grow. Without guidance, a child becomes reckless. Without God’s Word and
correction, we too lose our way.
Proverbs
3:11–12 says, “My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not
resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the
son he delights in.” This truth reminds us that God delights in His
children enough to keep them from self-destruction.
In the end
times, the world will encourage rebellion and independence from God. Many will
reject His Word because it feels restrictive. But His instruction is always for
our good. It keeps us aligned with truth when lies are everywhere.
Key Truth: God’s instruction is not a burden—it is
the gift of His wisdom to keep us safe in a world full of danger.
Correction
That Protects
Correction
may feel uncomfortable, but it is meant to protect us from greater harm. A
child running toward traffic may be stopped with a firm voice or even a sharp
tug. The momentary discomfort saves their life. God’s correction works the same
way.
Psalm 23:4
reminds us, “Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” The shepherd’s
rod was used to fend off predators, while the staff guided sheep back to
safety. God’s rod and staff bring correction that ultimately brings comfort,
because they keep us from danger.
In the end
times, this protective correction becomes even more important. Deception,
temptation, and persecution will all try to pull us away. Without God’s
instruction, we would wander into destruction.
Key Truth: God’s correction may feel painful, but it
protects us from dangers we cannot always see.
The
Temptation to Resist Correction
Human
pride often resists correction. We don’t like being told we are wrong. We
prefer to think we know best. But Proverbs 12:1 says, “Whoever loves
discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid.”
This verse
may sound harsh, but it tells us the truth: resisting God’s correction is
foolish. To ignore His instruction is to choose destruction.
In the end
times, when pride is celebrated and people exalt their own wisdom, this
temptation will be stronger than ever. Many will despise God’s correction, but
those who embrace it will remain safe.
Key Truth: Resisting correction in the end times
leads to ruin, but receiving it leads to life.
Instruction
That Prepares Us for Eternity
God’s
discipline is not just about protecting us now—it is about shaping us for
eternity. Hebrews 12:11 says, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but
painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace
for those who have been trained by it.”
The end
times are a season of preparation. The trials and corrections we face now are
shaping us for the life to come. They make us holy, strong, and ready to live
with God forever.
When we
understand this, discipline becomes less of a burden and more of a blessing. It
shows us that God is not just thinking about today—He is preparing us for
eternity with Him.
Key Truth: God’s discipline in the end times is
training for eternal life with Him.
The Danger
of False Freedom
The world
often equates freedom with living however you want. But this is a deception.
True freedom is not the absence of boundaries—it is living within God’s loving
instruction.
Romans
6:16 says, “Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as
obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey—whether you are slaves to
sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness?”
Choosing “freedom” from God’s instruction is actually slavery to sin.
In the end
times, this lie will spread further. People will reject God’s standards in the
name of freedom. But rejecting His instruction only leads to bondage and
destruction.
Key Truth: God’s instruction does not restrict us—it
frees us to live in righteousness and peace.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
This truth
about discipline and instruction leads us to the same conclusion as every
chapter: without God and Jesus, we cannot endure the end times. Without the
Father’s correction, we wander into destruction. Without the Shepherd’s voice,
we are deceived by lies.
But with
God as our Father, we are safe under His care. With Jesus as our Shepherd, we
are guided daily into truth. Together, they form the only foundation that can
withstand the storms of the last days.
Key Truth: In the end times, God’s fatherly care and
Jesus’ daily guidance are our only protection against destruction.
Chapter 8 – The Cross as the Only Way to
Salvation
Why Human Efforts Will Never Be Enough
How the Cross Secures Our Hope in the End Times
The Center
of Our Faith
At the
heart of the Christian faith is not a philosophy, a program, or a moral code.
It is the cross of Jesus Christ. The cross is the turning point of history, the
place where sin was judged and mercy was released. Without the cross, there
would be no salvation.
1 Peter
2:24 says, “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we
might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been
healed.” Jesus willingly gave His life, taking the punishment we deserved.
This is
why God and Jesus are critical for humanity in the end times. No human effort
can erase sin or overcome death. Only the cross does that. When the world grows
darker, the cross shines brighter as the only hope for salvation.
Key Truth: The cross is not one of many options—it is
the only foundation of salvation in the end times.
Why Our
Efforts Cannot Save Us
Many
people believe that being “good enough” will get them into Heaven. They rely on
morality, kindness, or good works. But the Bible is clear—salvation cannot be
earned.
Ephesians
2:8–9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this
is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can
boast.” Our best efforts fall short of God’s perfect standard.
In the end
times, this deception will spread even more. False teachers will say, “All
religions lead to God” or “As long as you’re sincere, you’ll be fine.” But
sincerity cannot erase sin. Only the blood of Jesus can.
This is
why Jesus’ sacrifice is so vital. Without Him, we would stand guilty before a
holy God. With Him, we are forgiven and declared righteous.
Key Truth: Human works cannot save in the end
times—only Jesus’ finished work on the cross can.
Jesus’
Bold Declaration
Jesus left
no room for confusion. In John 14:6, He said, “I am the way and the truth
and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This statement
is exclusive and absolute. He did not say He was one of many ways—He declared
He was the only way.
In the end
times, many will hate this truth. They will call it narrow, intolerant, or
outdated. But truth does not change because culture rejects it. Salvation has
always been and will always be through Christ alone.
Acts 4:12
echoes this: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name
under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Every other path
leads to destruction. Only the cross leads to life.
This is
why God and Jesus are critical in these last days. When everything else is
uncertain, the cross stands immovable.
Key Truth: Jesus is not a good option—He is the only
way to God in the end times.
The Cross
Shows God’s Love
The cross
is not just a symbol of suffering—it is the ultimate display of God’s love.
Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we
were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
God did
not wait for us to clean ourselves up. He sent Jesus while we were still
broken, rebellious, and lost. This shows us that salvation is not about our
performance but about His mercy.
In the end
times, when fear spreads and people question God’s goodness, the cross is our
reminder. It proves once and for all that God loves humanity. He cared enough
to send His Son to rescue us.
The cross
is the anchor of hope when everything else shakes. It reminds us that God’s
love is stronger than sin, death, and every deception.
Key Truth: The cross proves God’s love and secures
our hope, even in the darkest days of the end times.
The Cross
Defeats Satan
The cross
is not just about forgiveness—it is about victory. Colossians 2:15 says, “And
having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them,
triumphing over them by the cross.”
At
Calvary, Satan’s power was broken. His weapon of accusation was destroyed, and
his hold on humanity was shattered. The resurrection of Jesus sealed that
victory forever.
In the end
times, Satan will roar louder. His deception will increase. But his defeat has
already been secured at the cross. He knows his time is short, which is why he
fights so hard.
God and
Jesus are critical here because they alone have defeated the enemy. Without
them, we would still be slaves to sin. With them, we live in victory.
Key Truth: The cross is where Satan was defeated—his
lies may increase in the end times, but his power is broken.
The Cross
Is Our Daily Anchor
The cross
is not just a one-time event—it is a daily reality for believers. Luke 9:23
says, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up
their cross daily and follow me.”
This means
we live every day in light of what Jesus did. We put aside pride, surrender our
will, and trust His way. The cross shapes how we think, live, and endure.
In the end
times, when pressure and persecution rise, the cross anchors us. It reminds us
that Jesus already overcame. It gives us courage to endure, knowing that
suffering is temporary but His victory is eternal.
Key Truth: The cross is not just history—it is the
daily anchor that secures us in the end times.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
Every
truth about the cross points us back to the same reality: without God and
Jesus, we have no hope. Without the cross, there is no forgiveness, no
salvation, and no eternal life.
In the end
times, human pride will insist there are many paths to Heaven. But only Jesus’
blood covers sin. Only the Father’s love made the cross possible. Together,
they provide the only way through the chaos into eternal safety.
When the
world shakes, the cross stands unshakable. When deception spreads, the cross
shines with truth. When fear rises, the cross reminds us of love.
Key Truth: The cross of Jesus Christ is the only hope
for humanity in the end times—without it, we are lost forever.
Chapter 9 – Walking in the Spirit to Overcome
Darkness
Why the Spirit Is Our Lifeline in Troubled
Days
How God’s Presence Empowers Us in the End Times
The Gift
of the Holy Spirit
Jesus did
not leave His people alone when He ascended to Heaven. He promised to send the
Holy Spirit to guide, comfort, and empower believers. John 14:16–17 says, “And
I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be
with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it
neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and
will be in you.”
The Spirit
is God’s presence living inside His people. He is not a distant force but a
daily companion. He helps us understand Scripture, resist temptation, and
recognize lies. Without Him, we are weak. With Him, we are strong.
In the end
times, when darkness grows and deception multiplies, the Spirit becomes our
lifeline. He gives us wisdom, power, and courage to endure.
Key Truth: The Holy Spirit is not optional for the
end times—He is God’s presence and power within us.
The Spirit
Gives Discernment
One of the
Spirit’s greatest roles is to help us see truth clearly. John 16:13 says, “But
when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.”
The Spirit reveals what is from God and what is false.
In the end
times, this discernment is vital. Deception will be everywhere—false teachers,
counterfeit miracles, and messages that sound spiritual but deny Christ.
Without the Spirit, people will be swept away.
The Spirit
trains our ears to hear the Shepherd’s voice. He alerts us when something is
off. He gives us peace when we’re in God’s will and restlessness when we’re
not. His discernment keeps us safe.
Key Truth: The Spirit’s discernment is our safeguard
in the end times—it keeps us from believing lies.
The Spirit
Gives Strength
Life in
the end times will not be easy. Trials, temptations, and persecutions will
increase. Our natural strength is not enough to endure. That’s why God gives us
the Spirit.
Acts 1:8
says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you
will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the
ends of the earth.” The Spirit gives us supernatural strength to stand firm
when the world pressures us to compromise.
He
strengthens us to resist sin, to endure suffering, and to boldly declare Jesus.
Without Him, we would fall. With Him, we overcome.
Key Truth: The Spirit gives us strength beyond
ourselves to face the darkness of the end times.
The Spirit
Leads Us Daily
Walking in
the Spirit means relying on Him every moment. Galatians 5:16 says, “So I
say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
His leading is not just for emergencies—it is for everyday life.
The Spirit
nudges us when to speak, when to be silent, when to move, and when to wait. He
leads us into holiness and away from danger. His presence is constant, guiding
us in both small and big decisions.
In the end
times, daily dependence on the Spirit is essential. The world will pressure us
to trust our own wisdom. But our understanding is limited. His wisdom is
perfect.
Key Truth: Walking in the Spirit daily keeps us safe
from temptation and steady in truth.
Freedom in
the Spirit
The Spirit
not only guides but also brings freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the
Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Freedom from sin, fear, and condemnation is the fruit of life in the Spirit.
In the end
times, fear will dominate many hearts. People will be enslaved to sin, addicted
to darkness, and trapped in deception. But those who walk in the Spirit will
live free.
This
freedom is not about doing whatever we want—it is about living fully in God’s
love and truth. The Spirit empowers us to live the life God intended.
Key Truth: The Spirit brings freedom that no darkness
can steal, even in the end times.
Shining in
the Darkness
The Spirit
doesn’t just protect us—He empowers us to shine. Jesus said in Matthew 5:14, “You
are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
Through the Spirit, we become witnesses of God’s love and power.
In the end
times, as darkness grows, Spirit-filled believers will stand out. Their peace,
boldness, and faith will draw others to Christ. The Spirit makes us living
testimonies of God’s truth.
This is
why God and Jesus are critical. Without them, we have no Spirit, no power, and
no light. With them, we shine brightly until the day Christ returns.
Key Truth: The Spirit gives us courage to shine for
Jesus in the darkest days of the end times.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
The
Spirit’s work is only possible because of God’s love and Jesus’ sacrifice. The
Father promised the Spirit, and Jesus sent Him after the resurrection. Without
the cross, the Spirit would not dwell in us.
This is
why God and Jesus remain central in the end times. They are not distant figures
but the very source of the Spirit’s presence. Rejecting them means rejecting
the Spirit.
In the
last days, those who try to live without God will be powerless against
deception. But those who belong to Jesus will be filled with the Spirit,
equipped to overcome.
Key Truth: The Spirit is God’s gift through
Jesus—without Him, we are powerless; with Him, we overcome darkness.
Chapter 10 – The Church as a Family Guided by
Christ
Why We Cannot Walk Alone in the Last Days
How the Body of Christ Becomes Our Refuge in the End Times
God’s
Design for His People
Jesus
never intended His followers to live in isolation. From the beginning, His plan
was to gather us into a community—a spiritual family called the Church. Acts
2:42 describes the early Church this way: “They devoted themselves to the
apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
The Church
is more than a building or a weekly meeting. It is God’s design for His people
to live as one body, encouraging, protecting, and strengthening each other.
Just as a family cares for its members, the Church cares for believers.
In the end
times, this truth becomes even more critical. Isolation makes us weak, but
unity makes us strong. Together, we stand against deception and endure trials.
Key Truth: The Church is God’s family for His
people—it is His design for survival in the end times.
Christ as
the Head of the Body
The Church
is not just a human institution. It is a body with Christ as its head.
Colossians 1:18 says, “And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the
beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might
have the supremacy.”
This means
the Church is not guided by trends, cultures, or human leaders—it is guided by
Christ Himself. He directs, protects, and nourishes His body. Without Him as
the head, the body cannot live.
In the end
times, many groups will gather under false leaders and ideologies. But only the
Church under Christ’s leadership will endure. He alone gives direction and
unity.
Key Truth: The Church is not just people gathering—it
is Christ’s body, led by Him, sustained by Him, and secured by Him.
The Church
as a Refuge
The world
will grow increasingly hostile toward followers of Jesus. Persecution, mockery,
and rejection will increase. In those times, the Church becomes a refuge—a
place of strength and encouragement.
Hebrews
10:24–25 says, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward
love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit
of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day
approaching.”
The Church
is where we worship, pray, share burdens, and remind one another of God’s
promises. It is not perfect, but it is where God’s Spirit dwells among His
people.
In the end
times, this refuge is not optional—it is essential. Alone, believers can be
overwhelmed. Together, we stand strong.
Key Truth: The Church is God’s safe place for His
children in the end times—a refuge against the world’s hostility.
Imperfect
Yet Essential
Some
people avoid the Church because of its flaws. They point to hypocrisy,
divisions, or failures. While these struggles are real, they do not erase God’s
design. The Church is not perfect, but it is still His plan.
Ephesians
5:25–27 says, “Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make
her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to
present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any
other blemish, but holy and blameless.”
This shows
us that Jesus treasures His Church, despite its imperfections. He is shaping
it, cleansing it, and preparing it for His return. To reject the Church is to
reject what He loves.
In the end
times, when deception tells people to go their own way, staying rooted in the
Church is an act of obedience and protection.
Key Truth: The Church may be imperfect, but it is
still God’s chosen instrument for His people in the end times.
Why We
Need Each Other
Christianity
was never meant to be a solo journey. The Bible compares the Church to a body,
with each part playing a role. 1 Corinthians 12:27 says, “Now you are the
body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.”
Every
believer has gifts, strengths, and insights that build up the whole. One
believer may bring encouragement, another teaching, another hospitality,
another discernment. Together, the Church becomes strong and balanced.
In the end
times, when fear and deception rise, this unity becomes vital. We need each
other’s prayers, wisdom, and courage. Alone, we falter. Together, we stand
firm.
Key Truth: The Church is strong when each member
plays their part—this unity is essential in the end times.
A Family
Preparing for Eternity
The Church
is not just about surviving this life—it is about preparing for the life to
come. Revelation 19:7 says, “For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his
bride has made herself ready.” The Church is pictured as a bride preparing
to meet Christ.
Every
gathering, every act of worship, every moment of fellowship is practice for
eternity. In the end times, when the return of Christ draws near, the Church’s
role becomes even clearer. We are preparing together for His coming.
God and
Jesus are critical here because they define what the Church is. God is the
Father who gathers His children. Jesus is the head who leads His body. Without
them, the Church would collapse into just another social group. With them, it
becomes eternal family.
Key Truth: The Church is not just for now—it is God’s
eternal family preparing for the return of Christ.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
Everything
about the Church points us back to why God and Jesus are critical in the end
times. Without God’s design, there would be no Church. Without Jesus’
sacrifice, there would be no family of believers. Without His leadership, there
would be no direction or unity.
The Church
matters because God made it and Jesus leads it. It is not optional—it is
essential for survival, growth, and preparation. The Church is where God
strengthens His people in the last days.
In the end
times, when the world grows darker, the Church shines brighter. It is a light,
a refuge, and a family led by Christ Himself.
Key Truth: The Church, guided by Christ, is God’s
plan to keep His people strong and united in the end times.
Part 3 – Preparing for Eternity With God
The
purpose of the end times is not just survival but preparation for eternity. God
calls His people to stand firm against deception, keeping their eyes on Him
even when others fall away. Faith in Christ becomes our anchor in a world full
of shifting lies.
Living for
God instead of for ourselves sets us apart. The world pushes us toward
self-centeredness, but God calls us to obedience and love. Choosing His way,
even when difficult, leads to peace and joy that last beyond this life.
Heaven is
the true home God has prepared for His children. In His presence, there will be
no more pain, sorrow, or death. Everything broken will be restored, and Jesus
Himself will be our light forever.
This is
the ultimate promise: eternity with our Good Father and Good Shepherd. The end
of the story is not destruction but restoration. God will dwell with His people
forever, and His love will fill every moment of eternity.
Chapter 11 – Standing Firm Against End-Time
Deception
Why Truth Is Our Only Anchor in a World of
Lies
How God’s Word and Jesus’ Guidance Keep Us Safe
The Age of
Lies
The end
times are described in Scripture as a season of unprecedented deception.
Matthew 24:24 says, “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and
perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”
Jesus warned that deception would not be subtle—it would be powerful and
convincing.
We already
live in a world where truth feels slippery. News, media, politics, and even
religion are filled with competing voices. Each claims to be right, but many
are rooted in lies. Without God’s truth, it is impossible to know what is real.
This is
why God and Jesus are critical. His Word exposes lies, and Jesus’ voice leads
us through the noise. Without them, we would be swept away. With them, we stand
firm.
Key Truth: The end times will be marked by deception,
but God’s Word and Jesus’ voice remain unshakable truth.
False
Teachers and False Signs
Jesus
warned that deception would not only come through words but also through signs
and wonders. 2 Thessalonians 2:9–10 says, “The coming of the lawless one
will be in accordance with how Satan works. He will use all sorts of displays
of power through signs and wonders that serve the lie, and all the ways that
wickedness deceives those who are perishing.”
This means
that miracles, visions, and supernatural events are not always proof of God’s
presence. Satan counterfeits the miraculous to lead people astray. Without
discernment, many will follow false messiahs and false teachers.
That is
why Scripture and the Spirit are essential. Every teaching, every sign, must be
tested against God’s Word. If it contradicts the Bible, it is false—no matter
how impressive it looks.
Key Truth: In the end times, even miracles can
deceive—only God’s Word reveals what is truly from Him.
The Power
of God’s Word
Psalm
119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet, a light on my path.”
God’s Word cuts through the darkness of lies. It does not just give us
information—it gives us discernment, clarity, and direction.
In the end
times, the Bible will be more precious than ever. It will be the standard that
exposes counterfeit messages. It will be the sword of the Spirit that defends
against the enemy’s attacks (Ephesians 6:17).
Without
Scripture, people are at the mercy of whatever sounds appealing. But those
rooted in the Word stand firm. They are not easily swayed because they know
what God has already spoken.
Key Truth: God’s Word is our anchor against
deception—it keeps us steady when lies surround us.
The Role
of the Holy Spirit
Standing
firm is not about willpower. It is about the Spirit’s power. John 16:13 says, “But
when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.”
The Holy Spirit helps us recognize deception and remember God’s promises.
The Spirit
convicts us when something is false. He brings peace when we are in God’s will
and unease when we are drifting. His presence keeps us aligned with the
Shepherd’s voice.
In the end
times, when false teachings sound convincing, the Spirit will be our lifeline.
Without Him, we are powerless. With Him, we are strong and steady.
Key Truth: The Holy Spirit is our guide into
truth—without Him, deception would overwhelm us.
Anchored
in Prayer
Prayer is
another critical weapon against deception. Philippians 4:6–7 says, “Do not
be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with
thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which
transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ
Jesus.”
Prayer
guards our hearts and keeps us close to God. It sharpens our ears to hear His
voice and keeps us from drifting toward falsehood.
In the end
times, prayer is not just a routine—it is survival. It keeps us connected to
the Father and strengthens our faith. It reminds us that truth is not found in
culture but in Christ.
Key Truth: Prayer keeps us close to God, and
closeness to God is the only defense against deception.
Endurance
Through Christ
Standing
firm requires endurance. Jesus said in Matthew 24:13, “But the one who
stands firm to the end will be saved.” This endurance is not about grit—it
is about grace. We endure because Christ strengthens us.
Philippians
4:13 says, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” On our
own, we would collapse under pressure. But with Jesus, we can endure every
trial and resist every lie.
In the end
times, when truth is mocked and faith is tested, this endurance will matter
more than ever. Jesus gives His followers the strength to keep going, even when
the world falls apart.
Key Truth: Endurance in the end times is only
possible through Jesus’ strength, not human willpower.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
The
pattern is clear: without God and Jesus, there is no hope of standing firm
against end-time deception. Human wisdom is too weak. Human pride is too blind.
Human effort is too fragile.
But with
God’s Word, we see clearly. With Jesus as Shepherd, we hear the voice of truth.
With the Spirit, we discern lies and find strength. Together, they are our only
defense.
This is
why clinging to God and Jesus is not optional—it is life or death in the end
times. They are the anchor that keeps us steady until the very end.
Key Truth: Only God’s truth and Jesus’ voice can keep
us standing firm in a world consumed by lies.
Chapter 12 – Living a Life That Pleases God,
Not Ourselves
Why Obedience Is Rooted in Love, Not Legalism
How Choosing God Over Self Prepares Us for the End Times
The Call
to Please God
The world
tells us to live for ourselves—chasing comfort, success, and personal
happiness. But God calls His people to live differently. Instead of pleasing
ourselves, we are to live in a way that pleases Him.
2
Corinthians 5:9 says, “So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are
at home in the body or away from it.” This is not about earning His
approval but responding to His love. Pleasing God is an act of gratitude, not
legalism.
In the end
times, when self-centered living dominates culture, this call becomes even more
critical. While the world celebrates selfishness, God’s people shine by living
for Him.
Key Truth: Living to please God sets us apart in the
end times and prepares us for eternity.
Why Living
for Ourselves Fails
The
promise of self-centered living is happiness, but it never delivers. Chasing
our own desires leaves us empty and restless. Ecclesiastes 2:11 says, “Yet
when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve,
everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind.”
When we
live only for ourselves, we end up weary and unfulfilled. Pleasure fades,
wealth slips away, and achievements lose meaning. But living for God fills life
with eternal purpose.
In the end
times, people will love themselves more than God (2 Timothy 3:2). This false
love leads only to destruction. That’s why God and Jesus are critical—without
them, humanity is trapped in emptiness.
Key Truth: Self-centered living always leaves us
empty—only living for God brings lasting joy.
Obedience
Rooted in Love
Obedience
is not about rules—it is about love. Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love
me, keep my commands.” Obedience flows from relationship. We follow Him
because we trust Him and know His way is best.
When we
live for ourselves, obedience feels restrictive. But when we live for God,
obedience becomes freedom. His commands are not burdens—they are life-giving.
In the end
times, obedience to God will set believers apart. While others compromise,
God’s people will remain faithful, showing that true love always leads to
trust.
Key Truth: Obedience is not legalism—it is love in
action, especially vital in the end times.
A Life
That Shines
Philippians
2:15 says, “Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold
firmly to the word of life.” When we live to please God, our lives become
lights in the darkness.
In the end
times, darkness will grow. Selfishness, rebellion, and pride will dominate. But
believers who live for God will stand out—not because of perfection, but
because of love, humility, and faithfulness.
Our lives
point others to Jesus. People see the difference and are drawn to the light.
Living for God becomes not just a personal choice but a testimony to the world.
Key Truth: Living for God makes us lights in a world
of darkness—this is essential in the end times.
The Cost
and Reward of Pleasing God
Choosing
to live for God is not always easy. It often means sacrifice—turning away from
desires that the world celebrates. Jesus said in Luke 9:23, “Whoever wants
to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow
me.”
But though
there is a cost, there is also great reward. Galatians 6:8 says, “Whoever
sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” Living
for ourselves may feel easier in the moment, but it leads to emptiness. Living
for God leads to eternal life and lasting joy.
In the end
times, this contrast will be clear. Those who live for themselves will be swept
away. Those who live for God will endure and shine with His glory.
Key Truth: Living to please God may cost now, but it
secures eternal reward.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
This call
to live for God instead of ourselves is only possible because of Jesus. Without
Him, we are slaves to sin and selfishness. But through His death and
resurrection, we are set free to live in righteousness.
Romans
6:11 says, “In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God
in Christ Jesus.” Only Jesus makes it possible to deny ourselves and live
for God. Without Him, we could not overcome selfishness or sin.
In the end
times, when self-love becomes the norm, living for God will require strength
beyond our own. That strength comes from God’s Spirit within us and from
following Jesus daily.
Key Truth: Only God and Jesus empower us to live for
Him in the end times—without them, we remain trapped in self-centered living.
Chapter 13 – The Hope of Heaven as Our Eternal
Home
Why Earth Is Temporary but Eternity Is Forever
How God’s Promise of Heaven Gives Us Strength in the End Times
Life on
Earth Is Temporary
Every
human being feels the weight of life’s brevity. We age, we experience loss, and
we see that nothing on earth lasts forever. The Bible confirms this truth: “For
we are foreigners and strangers in your sight, as were all our ancestors. Our
days on earth are like a shadow, without hope” (1 Chronicles 29:15).
But for
those who belong to God, our hope is not limited to this short earthly life.
Heaven is our true home, and eternity with God is our ultimate destination.
This hope changes how we live now—it lifts our eyes above the temporary to the
eternal.
In the end
times, when the world feels unstable and life seems fragile, the hope of Heaven
becomes even more critical. It reminds us that what we see now is not the end.
Key Truth: Life on earth is temporary, but Heaven is
eternal—and this hope sustains us in the end times.
Heaven Is
the Fulfillment of God’s Love
Heaven is
not just an escape from suffering. It is the fullness of God’s love made
visible. Revelation 21:4 says, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes.
There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of
things has passed away.”
In Heaven,
everything broken will be restored. Sin, sickness, and sorrow will be gone
forever. What began with God’s love in creation will end with His love in
eternity, completed in perfect fellowship with Him.
This is
why God and Jesus are critical in the end times. Without them, there is no
Heaven—only despair. Jesus made Heaven possible through His death and
resurrection, and the Father promised it to His children.
Key Truth: Heaven is the final expression of God’s
love—without Jesus, it would be out of reach.
Strength
for Today, Hope for Tomorrow
The hope
of Heaven is not just about the future—it transforms how we live today. Paul
wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:17–18, “For our light and momentary troubles are
achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our
eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is
temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
This
perspective gives strength in trials. No matter how hard life becomes, we
remember that our pain is temporary and our glory is eternal. Heaven gives us
courage to endure with joy.
In the end
times, when suffering increases, the hope of Heaven becomes a lifeline. Without
it, despair overwhelms. With it, we endure with peace.
Key Truth: The promise of Heaven gives us strength to
face today with courage and tomorrow with hope.
Heaven Is
Our True Home
Philippians
3:20 says, “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior
from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” This verse reminds us that our identity
is not rooted in earthly nations, cultures, or possessions—our true home is in
Heaven.
Living as
citizens of Heaven changes how we see the world. We live as pilgrims passing
through, not as permanent residents. Earthly achievements matter less, and
eternal priorities matter more.
In the end
times, when nations rise and fall, this truth keeps us steady. While the world
clings to temporary security, we cling to eternal promises.
Key Truth: Our true home is not here—our citizenship
is in Heaven, secured by Christ.
The
Shepherd Leading Us Home
Jesus is
not only the one who made Heaven possible—He is the one who leads us there.
John 14:2–3 says, “My Father’s house has many rooms… I am going there to
prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come
back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
This is a
personal promise. Jesus does not just point to Heaven—He prepares it and comes
back for His people. The Good Shepherd ensures that every one of His sheep
makes it home.
In the end
times, when the journey feels long and dangerous, this truth matters most.
Jesus is walking with us, guiding us step by step toward eternity.
Key Truth: The Good Shepherd Himself leads His sheep
home—no deception or darkness can stop Him.
Hope That
Sets Us Apart
In 1
Thessalonians 4:13, Paul said, “We do not want you to be uninformed about
those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind,
who have no hope.” The hope of Heaven sets believers apart from the world.
When the
world despairs, God’s people hope. When others fear death, we see it as the
doorway to eternal life. This difference is not arrogance—it is assurance. It
flows from the Father’s promise and Jesus’ resurrection.
In the end
times, when fear spreads like wildfire, believers with hope in Heaven will
shine. Our peace will be a testimony to the world that Jesus is real.
Key Truth: The hope of Heaven makes us unshakable
witnesses in the end times.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
Every
truth about Heaven points back to why God and Jesus are critical. God is the
one who promises Heaven. Jesus is the one who makes Heaven possible. Without
them, there is no eternal hope.
The end
times expose how fragile earthly life is. Governments cannot promise eternity.
Wealth cannot secure it. Human wisdom cannot discover it. Only God gives this
gift, and only Jesus provides the way.
This is
why clinging to them is not optional—it is essential. The hope of Heaven is not
wishful thinking; it is secured by God’s Word and Jesus’ blood.
Key Truth: Heaven is God’s promise and Jesus’
gift—without them, we are lost; with them, we are home forever.
Chapter 14 – The Return of Jesus as King and
Judge
Why His Second Coming Will Change Everything
How Living Ready for His Return Shapes Our Lives in the End Times
The
Promise of His Return
The Bible
does not leave Jesus’ story unfinished. Just as surely as He came the first
time in humility, He will come again in glory. Acts 1:11 records the angels’
words to the disciples: “This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into
heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”
This is
not a myth, a metaphor, or a vague hope. It is a concrete promise. Jesus will
return visibly, powerfully, and undeniably. The end times are moving toward
this ultimate event—the King’s return.
This is
why God and Jesus are critical. Without them, the world ends in chaos and
despair. But with Jesus’ return, history finds its purpose and fulfillment.
Key Truth: The return of Jesus is not uncertain—it is
the guaranteed climax of God’s plan for the world.
The King
in Glory
When Jesus
came the first time, He came in humility—born in a manger, gentle and lowly.
But His second coming will be completely different. Revelation 19:11–12 says, “I
saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is
called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war. His eyes are
like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns.”
This is
the picture of a conquering King, not a suffering servant. He comes with
authority to rule and with power to judge. Every knee will bow, and every
tongue will confess that He is Lord (Philippians 2:10–11).
In the end
times, when evil seems to reign unchecked, this promise becomes our hope. The
Shepherd who laid down His life will return as King who reigns.
Key Truth: Jesus came first in humility, but He will
return in glory as King and Judge.
A Day of
Celebration for Believers
For those
who belong to Jesus, His return is the day we have longed for. 1 Thessalonians
4:16–17 says, “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud
command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and
the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are
left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the
air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”
This is
not a day of fear but of joy. It is the Shepherd gathering His flock, the
Father welcoming His children, the Bridegroom claiming His bride. For
believers, it is the victory moment of history.
In the end
times, when faith is tested and persecution rises, this hope gives us courage.
We know the story ends in triumph.
Key Truth: For believers, the return of Jesus is not
a threat but the greatest celebration of all time.
A Day of
Judgment for Unbelievers
But for
those who reject Jesus, His return will be a day of terror. Revelation 20:11–12
describes the great white throne judgment: “Then I saw a great white throne
and him who was seated on it… And I saw the dead, great and small, standing
before the throne, and books were opened.”
This is
not a symbolic warning—it is a reality. Every life will be judged, and those
who refused Christ will face eternal separation from God. Jesus’ return will
not only reward faithfulness; it will expose rebellion.
This is
why repentance is urgent. The time to prepare is now, not later. Once the King
returns, the opportunity to choose is gone.
Key Truth: The return of Jesus is joy for the
faithful but judgment for the rebellious—the time to prepare is today.
Living
Ready for His Return
Jesus
repeatedly emphasized the importance of readiness. In Matthew 24:44, He said, “So
you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do
not expect him.”
Living
ready does not mean living in fear. It means living faithfully, with hearts
focused on God and lives shaped by His will. It means staying alert, prayerful,
and anchored in truth.
In the end
times, when distractions and deceptions abound, readiness is everything. We
cannot drift through life carelessly. We must live each day as if the King
could return tomorrow.
Key Truth: Readiness for Jesus’ return is not
fear-driven—it is faith-driven, shaping how we live today.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
The return
of Jesus highlights once again why God and Jesus are critical in the end times.
Without God’s plan, history has no purpose. Without Jesus’ return, evil wins.
But with Him, justice is served, love is fulfilled, and eternity begins.
Believers
endure because we know the King is coming. We live holy lives because we know
the Judge will set all things right. We walk in hope because we know the
Shepherd will gather us home.
This truth
is not just doctrine—it is our lifeline. Without God and Jesus, there is only
despair. With them, there is eternal victory.
Key Truth: The end times are not hopeless—they are
the stage for Jesus’ return as King and Judge.
Chapter 15 – Eternal Life With Our Good Father
and Shepherd
Why the End of the Story Is Really a Beginning
How God’s Love and Jesus’ Care Shape Our Forever Home
The End Is
Really the Beginning
The story
of the end times does not close in fear—it opens into restoration. Revelation
21:3–4 declares, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he
will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with
them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be
no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has
passed away.”
What
begins with warning ends with comfort. What begins with chaos ends with peace.
The end times are not about destruction for God’s children—they are about the
Father bringing His family home.
This is
why God and Jesus are so critical. Without them, the end is hopeless. With
them, the end is the beginning of eternity.
Key Truth: For God’s people, the end of the age is
the dawn of eternal life with our Father and Shepherd.
The Father
Dwelling With His People
God has
always desired closeness with His people. From walking in the garden with Adam
and Eve to filling the temple with His presence, His plan has always been
intimacy. The end times fulfill this desire completely—God Himself will dwell
with us forever.
He is not
a distant ruler looking down from heaven. He is a Good Father who wipes away
tears, heals wounds, and surrounds His children with love. His eternal presence
means security, joy, and peace that never end.
In the end
times, when fear and suffering rise, this promise anchors us. The Father’s care
is not temporary—it is eternal.
Key Truth: Eternal life is God’s presence with His
children—forever safe, forever loved, forever home.
Jesus Our
Eternal Shepherd
Even in
Heaven, Jesus remains our Shepherd. Revelation 7:17 says, “For the Lamb at
the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs
of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”
This is a
picture of eternal guidance. Jesus not only saved us from sin—He continues to
lead us into joy. His presence is our light, our source, and our delight
forever.
The
Shepherd who laid down His life will never stop caring for His flock. In the
end times and beyond, His voice still leads us into life.
Key Truth: Jesus is not just the Shepherd now—He is
the eternal Shepherd guiding us into everlasting joy.
No More
Fear, No More Sorrow
The world
today is full of fear and sorrow. Death, pain, and loss are part of life in a
fallen world. But in eternity, those things vanish. Revelation promises that
mourning, crying, and pain will be gone forever.
Imagine a
life with no hospitals, no funerals, no grief. Imagine a heart that never
breaks and a body that never weakens. This is the reality God has prepared for
His children.
In the end
times, when fear spreads like wildfire, this truth is critical. God and Jesus
are the only reason we can look at the future with hope instead of dread.
Key Truth: Eternal life with God means the end of
fear, sorrow, and death—forever.
The Gift
of Eternal Life
Eternal
life is not something we can earn. It is a gift from God, given through Jesus
Christ. Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of
God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
This is
why Jesus is so critical. Without Him, the only end is death. But through His
sacrifice, eternal life becomes available to all who believe.
In the end
times, when people place their hope in wealth, power, or science, only Jesus
offers what no one else can: life that never ends.
Key Truth: Eternal life is not achieved—it is
received as God’s gift through Jesus.
Our True
Promise
The goal
is not merely surviving the end times. It is not just making it through trials
or avoiding deception. The true promise is eternity with God. That is the
destination. That is the home.
Our Good
Father and Good Shepherd are leading us there. Every trial, every challenge,
every moment of faithfulness is part of the journey toward that eternal place.
This is
why living for God matters. This is why following Jesus matters. The story ends
not with fear but with forever love.
Key Truth: The end times are not about survival but
about arrival—eternal life with our Good Father and Shepherd.
Why God
and Jesus Are Critical
Eternal
life is the ultimate proof of why God and Jesus are so critical in the end
times. God is the Father who promises eternity. Jesus is the Shepherd who makes
the way. Without them, there is no hope beyond death.
The end
times will strip away every false hope. Human strength will fail. Wealth will
collapse. Nations will fall. But God’s promise will remain, and Jesus will
still lead His people home.
This is
the unshakable hope of believers: eternity with God, secured by Christ.
Key Truth: Only God and Jesus can carry us beyond the
end times into eternal life—without them, we are lost; with them, we are home
forever.
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