What exactly is this end that Peter was talking about? First and foremost, the end of all things is the day of the Lord’s judgment of this world. It may not be a cosmic explosion as some astronomers talk about, but it will certainly be destructive (see 2 Peter 3:10).
predicted by astronomers, otherwise, Peter would not need to remind us to be prepared. The exact date is known to no one, but it will come unexpectedly, just like a thief entering a house. When that day arrives, it will not be hidden. It will be sudden and obvious. As Christians, we must prepare for the arrival of that day. Not because we may lose our salvation, for salvation is freely given by the Lord Jesus to all who trust in Him. Rather, the tests of faith that we will face before that day arrives will become increasingly severe. A Christian who is not alert, prayerful, and in fellowship with other believers at this time may compromise their faith. When the Lord Jesus comes to judge the believers, will they not receive rebuke from the Lord Jesus? “For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household” (1 Peter 4:17).
The apostles of the New Testament, including Peter, once asked Jesus about the timing of His second coming. Jesus did not specify a date but instructed them to watch for the signs preceding that day. He said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences . . .” (Luke 21:10-11). In human history, these events have been common. However, they will become more intense and frequent. The strong earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in recent months, the evolving conflicts between Israel and Hamas that have expanded into Iranian territory, the food crises caused by climate change and the Ukraine war, and the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic that has directly or indirectly claimed the lives of 16 million people globally, along with the recent concerns about avian flu, are all very strong signs. All these events occurred in a span of less than five years. Who could have imagined the world would evolve to this extent at the beginning of 2020? The occurrence of these events proves the truth of the Bible. Its prophecies are coming true before our eyes. Its teachings are also true.
Jesus teaches us not to be alarmed because these events are under His control. He instructs us: “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:34-36). Dear brothers and sisters, as the end times alarm rings louder, let us not indulge in worldly pleasures and pursuits like others do, but let us not be so afraid that life comes to a halt either. Stay vigilant, and rely on God wholeheartedly to live.
translated by Rachel Goh