In Mark 13, Jesus tells us about the future events that will take place before he returns a second time. I understand that the rapture causes disagreements whenever this subject is discussed, however, I want to pay attention to what Jesus said which are the things we all agree with.
Jesus says; "for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah.’ They will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately."
Mark 13:6-7 NLT.
We all agree, deception will increase as we approach this period. We all agree there will be an increase in war, the rumours of wars and natural phenomenon like earthquakes, tsunamis, etc.
We agree that Jesus says to all his believers, watch;
"“When these things begin to happen, watch out! You will be handed over to the local councils and beaten in the synagogues. You will stand trial before governors and kings because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell them about me."
Mark 13:9 NLT.
Watching here we agree will mean being vigilant. It seems to mean in this verses that they should be vigilant in the midst of the tribulation. It will mean to be prayerful too.
We are agreed that there would be so great a tribulation in the world, so great Jesus says the father has shortened for the sake of the elect, otherwise, no one would survive.
"In fact, unless the Lord shortens that time of calamity, not a single person will survive. But for the sake of his chosen ones he has shortened those days.
Mark 13:20 NLT.
We are also agreed that there will be a time of persecution for believers for the sole reason that they are followers of Christ;
"For the Good News must first be preached to all nations. But when you are arrested and stand trial, don’t worry in advance about what to say. Just say what God tells you at that time, for it is not you who will be speaking, but the Holy Spirit. “A brother will betray his brother to death, a father will betray his own child, and children will rebel against their parents and cause them to be killed. And everyone will hate you because you are my followers. But the one who endures to the end will be saved."
Mark 13:10-13 NLT.
This time of persecution will inadvertently also be a time of massive evangelism so that the good news is eventually preached to all nations.
Finally for today, we agreed that the events Jesus is describing are the things that occurs during the tribulation.
According to Jesus, a time of great tribulation and deception will soon come upon the world, all believers must be ready.
