We have taken a look at the words of Jesus about the end of this world and the beginning of the one to come. Matthew, Mark, and Luke all record His explanation as He answers His disciples about the future. It must have blown their minds! John will add his thoughts when God gives him the Revelation of Jesus on the island of Patmos, which is contrasted on the pdf “An Amazing New World Begins.” From Jesus’ own mouth we are given the schematic for what will be – forever!
The end of the age kicks off with the fullness of times: “But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father! (Daddy)” Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, you are an heir through God.” – Galatians 4:4-7
We begin with page 116 which connects Joel 2 with Acts 2, and validates the fact that ultimate promises are beginning to be fulfilled. What occurred on the Day of Pentecost (50 days after Passover/resurrection day and one of the historic major feasts of the Jews commemorating the gathering of the harvest) began an explosion of power that continues until the end of the age.
Next we sift through Daniel 9 or Daniel’s 70th week – the story of the book of Revelation (page 117). We consider the construction of the message of Daniel on page 118 as well as more specifics on the 69 weeks and then the 70th (the Tribulation of the entire earth – page 119). Taken together these passages explain what will be, and give us a very sober and hopeful look into the personal future of each one of us.
It is important to recognize that being a part of the world to come means we are family, and we are secure in every respect. This is the basis of the faith of a man or woman of God. We are His – and He is ours!
“Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. And you know the way where I am going.” – John 14:1-4
“… and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.” – John 10::28,29
All of this sets up a consideration the nature and message of the book of Revelation (End of the Age 3/page 120-121) as well as other major prophecy about the end – found on pages 122-123.
Imagine what it would have been like to be 80 or so years old and to be sent to prison on an island to be isolated from making an impact on believers throughout the realm – and God gives you His revelation of Jesus Christ to share with others then and now. Exhilarating for John to understand the end of the age, for sure!
All of this is hanging over our heads – ready to drop at the command of the only One who has the authority to make it so!
Come quickly Lord Jesus!
Maranatha
Dave and Burnadette