The Coming Judgment and the End Times
“Lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” – Luke 21:28
In Luke 21:5-38, Jesus warns His disciples not to be deceived by external appearances or misled by events that seem to signal the end. The grandeur of the temple, which people took as a sign of God's favor, would be completely destroyed. Likewise, Jesus clarifies that wars, natural disasters, and false messiahs do not necessarily indicate the end of time but are simply part of a fallen world.
Persecution, however, is certain. Jesus tells His disciples they will be brought before rulers and authorities because of their allegiance to Him. Yet, He assures them they will not be alone—He will give them words and wisdom to testify. Even betrayal by family and friends will not ultimately harm them because their eternal security in Him is assured.
Jerusalem’s destruction is a foretaste of God's final judgment. Jesus instructs His followers to flee when they see its ruin approaching. The period called "the times of the Gentiles" will persist until God's redemptive plan is fulfilled. Cosmic disturbances will announce Christ’s return, and while the world will be gripped with terror, believers will stand with confidence, knowing that their redemption is near.
Jesus calls His followers to remain vigilant, faithful, and prayerful. His words will outlast the heavens and the earth, and His return will be sudden and unavoidable. The challenge is to live with expectant hearts, fully dependent on God, ready to stand before the Son of Man.
Personalized Journal Entry in the Holy Spirit’s Voice Through Scripture
The world is shaken, and men’s hearts fail them for fear, but I have told you these things so that you may stand firm. The destruction you see is not the end but a sign that My purposes are unfolding. Do not be deceived by outward splendor or by those who claim authority apart from Me. False teachers will come, claiming to know the time, but do not follow them. The world will be filled with wars, earthquakes, and trials, but I hold you secure in My hands.
You will be brought before rulers and judges for My name’s sake, yet do not fear what you will say. I will give you words and wisdom that none can contradict. Even those closest to you may turn against you, yet not a hair of your head will be lost. By endurance, you will gain your soul. When judgment falls upon the wicked, do not despair—your redemption is near. Lift up your head, for the Son of Man comes with power and great glory.
Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away. Stay awake, watching and praying, that you may be found worthy to stand before Me. Do not let your heart be weighed down with the cares of this life. The day will come suddenly, like a trap upon those who are unprepared. But you, My beloved, are not in darkness. Be ready, for the time draws near.
(Scriptural references: Luke 21:8-36, Matthew 24:35, John 16:33, Revelation 3:10)
Prayer of Confidence and Trust
Lord, I rest in Your unshakable Word. While the world trembles at what is to come, I stand secure in Your promises. You have told me these things so that I may not be led astray, and I trust in Your perfect plan. I will not fear persecution, for You are my defender. I will not be troubled by the shifting tides of the world, for You are my rock. My heart is not weighed down by the anxieties of life, for You are my peace.
I lift up my head, for my redemption is near. Until that glorious day, I watch and pray, knowing that You sustain me. Your Word remains, eternal and true. I trust You, Lord, and I await Your return with joy.
Amen.
Image Intent: A sunrise breaking through dark storm clouds, symbolizing the coming redemption and the victory of Christ’s return.
Credit: Insights from The Grace and Truth Study Bible. Photo by Unsplash.