Seeing The Wood For The Trees
So here we are - the second of my 'signs of the end times' blogs. So far I'm on my intended target!
Today though, before I get started onto the signs I want to bring an all important perspective to this subject. Before we begin I feel the need to establish from the very beginning a vital foundational truth.
You see no matter what the subject we can all to often become distracted from the central point. As the old idiom goes sometimes 'we can't see the wood for the trees'. In other words we've become so captivated by the minutiae that we've forgotten what's of central importance.
I'm a graphic designer by profession, and I'm on the verge of purchasing a much needed and overdue new computer with the latest graphics software updates. Now I know that when that box arrives, and I set it up in my studio, I will no doubt become temporarily excited and captivated by its shiny outer and its super fast inner. But it's not about my new computer. No matter how cool it looks or how fast it can run. I didn't buy it to look at it. The point of the purchase is so I can get on with my design projects effectively and efficiently and earn an income!
The signs of the end times is no different. Distraction is certainly an issue with this biblical topic.
What then is centrally important in all of this talk about the signs of the end times?
Well the signs point to one of the most pivotal events to ever impact humanity.
The signs point to the arrival, or the second arrival, of Jesus Christ to the earth.
The whole point about studying, understanding and bringing attention to the end time signs and their fulfillment in our day must certainly not be to excite or fascinate the senses. It's not supposed to be some kind of warped hobby or pastime whereby aficionados gather together in some kind of end times convention to discuss with zeal their latest theories, imaginations, or what they just heard that preacher say on YouTube. Sadly, and I believe dangerously, this has so often become the case. We are not seeing the wood for the trees.
So let's be clear here. What is the wood?
It is the person of Jesus Christ.
The purpose of the signs of the end times is ultimately to reveal to humanity that Jesus Christ is in the preparatory stages of revisiting the earth in power and glory.
So then the signs are not an end in themselves, they are pointers to show us as Jesus Christ said 'that summer is near'. (Matthew 24)
Why would God in his infinite wisdom warn us of this day through signs?
Firstly it's the way he's always done it. Remember Noah? He and his boat was the greatest sign to humanity that God was coming to deal with the world and its problems. Signs then are so people have time to prepare and get ready to meet God.
But secondly and all importantly God warns us through signs because of his great love for us. You see He wishes that no one should perish. But that we all should have a chance to come to Him in humble sorrow for the things we have said and done wrong (John 3:16). For example to seek God's forgiveness for being hateful and unkind, or for harbouring unforgiveness towards those who have hurt us, or from entertaining murderous thoughts or sexual lusts and imaginations, or from being selfish and jealous.
You see friends, it is these kinds of things that separate us from God. With these attitudes and problems of the heart we will not see Him no matter how much He loves us. We will not be ready. And when He comes to the earth and finds us not ready, then and tragically then, that will be it. It will be too late. We would have missed the boat so to speak, as those who missed the boat in the days of Noah. There will be no time to find peace with God. It will all happen too quickly. In an instant it will all be over.
For me one of the most tragic moments in the bible is the story of the ten wise and foolish virgins. (Matthew 25)
Tragic because they were all believers waiting for their Lord to return. Tragic because five went to meet with their Lord and five didn't make it. Tragic because these five who were left out eagerly wished to enter but they were unprepared, and therefore couldn't! They hurriedly asked for help from their friends - the five who were ready - but they couldn't help lest they too miss out. So while they frantically ran off to prepare themselves Jesus came and went. That was it. Too late. When they returned it was all over. Tragically they missed it.
As we look at the signs lets see the wood (Jesus) for the trees!
Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. If this has helped you in any way or if it has prompted any questions then I would love to hear from you!
God bless you
The new end time prophecy book everyone is talking about - uncompromising, thought provoking and totally compelling.
Available in paperback and on Kindle from Amazon or direct from
http://www.trumpetblastwarning.co.uk/
If you feel the message of my book is important, please let others know by connecting with me on:
http://www.facebook.com/trumpetblastwarning/
Or http://www.twitter.com/newprophecybook
Comments