Full text without going to facebook: When I first got saved I was filled with the overwhelming feeling and sense of knowledge that Christ's return was imminent. Months and now years go by and over time I thought about that. This is the scripture I found to help understand what I experienced:
"Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand." 2 Thessalonians 2:1, 2
Isn't that amazing? This was happening just a few years after Christ had died and raised from the dead and ascended to take His place on the right hand of God. Some thought Christ was already coming back any moment. But Paul continues,
"Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?" 2 Thessalonians 2:3-5
Wow. Do you believe the Word of God? This is going to happen. Has it happened? Some of it seems to have. I would classify today's spiritual condition as the "great falling away". But many have said this over the past hundred years. So how far will this "falling away" go? Pauls answers, it wont happen *until* this man of sin is *revealed*. The Pope seems to be a type or precursor to what Paul describes here. But I don't see that clearly as being THIS Pope (the actual *one* that is destroyed by Christ Himself.). BUT, we await this sign to be fulfilled. I don't think it is fully here yet. But the Holy Spirit through Paul does also give these clues,
"And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." 2 Thessalonians 2:6-12
That isn't fearful? I think its very fearful. God, let me not be of that number!
Paul wraps the first chapter up with this very sobering and fearful exhortation. Take heed,
"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.
Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work." 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17
I don't ever want to be considered a teacher or a master. "My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation." James 3:1 But I did want to share this today with whoever looks at my page. And to maybe provide a better understanding of simple bible prophecy regarding the end times. Much can be added of course so please do not accuse me of leaving something out. However, If there is something you would like to add please do so.
That said, "the end" for any of us could be any day. We need to be ready and DO as the Bible and Paul instruct, with all our hearts. Please pray for God's will and power and mercy to be manifested today and every day through His people. Amen.
If you aren't ready for Christ's return and feel the desire to repent you can do so anytime, anywhere. Simply tell Christ you are sorry for your sins and acknowledge Christ's death on the cross and shedding of blood for the forgiveness of your sins. The Lord stands at the door and knocks, open your heart and invite Him in to receive power to keep His word. God will make you ready for His return. That is the gospel or good news. It is forgiveness and salvation offered to you freely. May God bless you all, in Jesus' Name Amen
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