Gavin Jarvis
The end of the world began this month. At least, that’s what you’ve seen if you follow some Christian accounts on social media or subscriptions.
The attack on Israel by Iran has some Christians speculating on whether that event will lead to a wide-scale conflict that mirrors something described in the Bible. There was also a total eclipse that was purported to cross over seven towns named Nineveh (it did not).
As chaotic as the world feels, there may even be a Christian in your friend circle that has said “It’s the beginning of the end.” So, what’s going on, faith and insight readers: Is this the end of the world?
(By the way, I’m fully aware that one of the fastest ways for a Christian to get canceled by other Christians is to address this topic. And I’ve got low-key anxiety about it, but we’re here, and you’ve read this far already, so let’s go).
The answer to the question “Is this the end of the world?” for Christians at least, is no, yes, and live for Jesus now. No, it’s not the end.
Jesus said about the end of the world that no one knows the exact time, and that it will catch everyone on guard because at that point life will look... well, the best word for it is “normal.” Matthew 24:36-41
This hasn’t stopped people from declaring when it would happen, and there’s a Wikipedia page dedicated to predictions of Jesus’ second coming. You can Google it, it’s embarrassing.
I encourage all Christians and investigators of Christianity to spend your time focused on the present work of Jesus to save us from our shame, bring us into a family, unite us with God, and send us into this world to do works in his name.
Yes, it’s also the end. At least the beginning of it. The New Testament of the Christian Bible teaches that it has been “the end times” since Jesus’ death and resurrection (see 1 John 2:18).
So, Jesus said that when we “hear of wars and rumors of wars, (don’t be) alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom... all these are but the beginning of the birth pains.” Matthew 24:6-8
From an end-of-the-world standpoint, we don’t panic or fixate on each world event because of the intentional control and reign of God over all of history but recognize turmoil as a sign of the times.
So, Christians: live for Jesus now. Even if Jesus’ return is not imminent, we still serve him (and others) and tell the world about him, because there is hope and life in Jesus right now. And one day, he will return. And because we already live in “the end times,” our responses to headlines or social media are tempered with sober-mindedness, prayer, love, and ultimately hope that erases inaction or fear. Just as Jesus taught us.
Gavin Jarvis is lead pastor at Living Stones Church.