THE SIGNS OF THE END TIMES
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 24:3-14
Supporting Texts: 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Luke 21:25-28
INTRODUCTION:
The disciples asked Jesus about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. In response, Jesus outlined several events and conditions that would mark the last days. These signs are evident in our world today, confirming that we are living in the end times. As believers, we must understand these signs and prepare ourselves for the return of Christ.
1. UNDERSTANDING THE SIGNS JESUS SPOKE ABOUT
a) The Signs Are Warnings (Matthew 24:6-8)
Jesus described wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes as "the beginning of sorrows." These are divine warnings for the world to turn to God.
b) The Signs Are Progressive (Luke 21:10-11)
The signs will intensify as the end approaches, much like labour pains before childbirth.
c) The Signs Affect the Whole World (Revelation 6:3-8)
No nation is exempt from the increasing instability, moral decay, and disasters.
d) The Signs Indicate an Urgent Call to Repentance (2 Peter 3:9)
God delays His judgment to give people time to repent, but the time of grace will not last forever.
e) Biblical Example: Noah's Generation (Matthew 24:37-39)
Just as the people ignored Noah’s warning before the flood, many today are ignoring the warnings of the end times.
2. THE MORAL AND SPIRITUAL DECAY IN THE LAST DAYS
a) Increase in Wickedness (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
Paul prophesied that the last days would be characterised by selfishness, pride, and rebellion.
b) Corruption of God’s Word (2 Timothy 4:3-4)
Many reject sound doctrine and prefer teachings that suit their desires.
c) Normalisation of Sin (Romans 1:28-32)
Sins that were once shameful are now widely accepted and even celebrated.
d) Decline of Genuine Faith (Luke 18:8)
Many are departing from true faith and embracing false spirituality.
e) Biblical Example: Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:4-9)
The people of Sodom indulged in sin without fear of God, leading to their destruction.
3. THE RISE OF FALSE PROPHETS AND DECEPTION
a) False Prophets Will Increase (Matthew 24:11)
Many will claim to speak for God but will lead people away from the truth.
b) Deception Through Signs and Wonders (Matthew 24:24)
False prophets will perform miracles to deceive even the elect.
c) Twisting of the Gospel (Galatians 1:6-9)
Some will preach a different gospel that contradicts the message of Christ.
d) Commercialisation of Religion (2 Peter 2:1-3)
Many false teachers exploit people for financial gain.
e) Biblical Example: Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8:9-11)
Simon deceived people with magic, making them believe he had the power of God.
4. THE INCREASE IN GLOBAL TURMOIL AND DISASTERS
a) Wars and Conflicts (Matthew 24:6-7)
Nations will rise against nations, and global unrest will escalate.
b) Famines and Economic Hardship (Revelation 6:5-6)
Shortages of food and resources will increase worldwide.
c) Natural Disasters (Luke 21:11)
Earthquakes, floods, and pandemics will become more frequent and severe.
d) Persecution of Believers (Matthew 24:9)
Christians will be hated, imprisoned, and even killed for their faith.
e) Biblical Example: The Plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-11)
Just as Egypt suffered plagues before Israel’s deliverance, the world is experiencing disasters as a warning before Christ’s return.
5. HOW BELIEVERS SHOULD RESPOND TO THESE SIGNS
a) Watch and Pray (Luke 21:36)
Stay spiritually alert and pray for strength to endure.
b) Preach the Gospel (Matthew 24:14)
The end will come when the gospel has been preached to all nations.
c) Live in Holiness (2 Peter 3:11-12)
Knowing that the world will be judged, believers must live righteously.
d) Encourage One Another (Hebrews 10:25)
Strengthen fellow believers and stay connected to the church.
e) Biblical Example: The Wise and Foolish Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)
The wise virgins were prepared for the bridegroom, while the foolish ones missed their opportunity.
CONCLUSION:
The signs of the end times are all around us. Rather than living in fear, we must see these signs as a call to prepare, repent, and remain steadfast in our faith. Jesus is coming soon, and we must be ready.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to remain spiritually alert in these last days.
2. Father, keep me from being deceived by false doctrines.
3. Lord, grant me the grace to endure till the end.
4. I reject every spirit of fear and embrace the peace of God.
5. Lord, strengthen the Church to stand firm in these perilous times.
6. Father, let the gospel spread to the ends of the earth before Your return.
7. Lord, keep me from falling into the corruption of the world.
8. Father, let my faith grow stronger daily.
9. Lord, give me the wisdom to discern the times and seasons.
10. Father, prepare me for Your glorious coming.
