The End Times
A Simple, Biblical Overview
The Bible teaches that history is moving toward a clear conclusion — God’s plan will be fulfilled, evil will be judged, and Jesus Christ will reign forever.
This is not meant to frighten us. It is meant to prepare us and give us hope.
“Surely I am coming soon.” — Jesus Christ, Revelation 22:20
What Are the End Times?
The “end times” refer to the final period of human history before God fully restores all things.
The Bible describes:
Increasing rebellion against God
Global deception and lawlessness
God’s judgment on sin
The return of Jesus Christ
The establishment of God’s eternal kingdom
“In the last days there will come times of difficulty.” — 2 Timothy 3:1
Key Events in God’s End-Times Plan
The Bible presents the end times as a sequence of real events, not myths or metaphors.
1. The Gospel Is Preached to the World
Before the end, God ensures the message of salvation reaches the nations.
“This gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world… and then the end will come.” — Matthew 24:14
God’s heart remains salvation, even in the final days.
2. The Rapture — Christ Comes for His People
Jesus will return for believers, removing them from the earth.
“We… shall be caught up… to meet the Lord in the air.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17
This event is sudden and unexpected.
“The day of the Lord will come like a thief.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:2
3. A Time of Great Tribulation
After the rapture, the Bible describes a period of intense judgment, deception, and suffering known as the Great Tribulation.
“There will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world.” — Matthew 24:21
During this time:
Evil increases
Many turn to Christ
God’s justice is revealed
God remains sovereign throughout.
4. The Visible Return of Jesus Christ
At the end of the tribulation, Jesus will return openly and visibly to the earth.
“Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him.” — Revelation 1:7
This is not secret.
This is not symbolic.
This is the return of the King.
5. Judgment and the Defeat of Evil
Jesus will judge the world in righteousness and destroy all evil.
“He will judge the world in righteousness.” — Acts 17:31
Satan, sin, and death will be defeated forever.
“The last enemy to be destroyed is death.” — 1 Corinthians 15:26
6. The New Heaven and the New Earth
God will create a renewed, eternal world where righteousness dwells.
“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth.” — Revelation 21:1
In this eternal kingdom:
There is no death
No pain
No sorrow
No sin
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” — Revelation 21:4
What Should We Do Now?
The Bible is not saying we should panic, calculate dates, or obsess over signs.
It calls us to be ready.
“Be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” — Matthew 24:44
Readiness means:
Repenting of sin
Trusting Jesus Christ
Living faithfully
Walking in hope
Is This a Message of Fear?
No.
For believers, the end times are hope, not terror.
“God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:9
For those who do not yet know Christ, it is a loving warning and an open invitation.
Are You Ready?
Jesus is not asking if you are religious. He is asking if you are His.
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life.” — John 3:36
The same Saviour who died for sinners
The same Lord who rose from the grave
Is the same King who is coming again.
Final Truth
History is not random.
The future is not uncertain.
God is in control.
“Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” — Revelation 22:20