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What Does the Bible Reveal About the End Times?

The Nature of Biblical Apocalyptic Literature

Biblical apocalyptic literature unveils the culmination of Jehovah’s divine plan, blending vivid imagery, prophetic visions, and revelations about the end of human history. Found primarily in the books of Daniel, Ezekiel, and Revelation, this genre conveys God's sovereignty over time and events, affirming the ultimate triumph of His will. These texts are not allegorical or symbolic; instead, they present literal truths through divinely inspired visions that often employ rich and detailed imagery.

Jehovah's control over history is evident in Daniel's vision of successive kingdoms (Daniel 2:31-45). The prophecy of a stone "cut without hands" shattering earthly empires points to the establishment of an everlasting divine kingdom. This prophecy, confirmed by Jesus’ declaration in Matthew 24:14, affirms that the end will come after the Gospel has been preached to all nations. The apocalyptic visions consistently affirm the victory of God’s kingdom and the certainty of His promises.

Key Events in the End Times Narrative

The Scriptures outline a series of definitive events characterizing the end times. These events, presented through literal descriptions, include the rise of a global system opposing Jehovah, the return of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, and the final judgment.

The Rise of Antichrist and Global Rebellion

The Apostle John explicitly identifies those who deny Jesus as the Messiah as having the "spirit of antichrist" (1 John 2:18, 22). While there are many antichrists throughout history, Revelation introduces a specific "beast" who will embody this opposition (Revelation 13:1-8). This global leader will demand worship, blaspheme Jehovah, and persecute His people. Paul’s writings in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-12 describe the "man of sin," whose emergence signals the end's approach.

This rebellion is not confined to individual acts of disobedience but culminates in a collective defiance of Jehovah's authority, symbolized by Babylon the Great (Revelation 17:1-6). The uniting of political, religious, and economic powers against God reflects humanity’s ultimate rejection of His sovereignty.

The Return of Jesus Christ

The second coming of Christ is the central event in the apocalyptic narrative. Unlike His first coming, marked by humility and sacrifice, His return will be unmistakable and glorious. Jesus declared, "For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be" (Matthew 24:27). He will come with power and great glory, accompanied by His angels, to gather His faithful (Matthew 24:30-31).

Revelation 19:11-16 depicts Jesus as a warrior-king, returning to execute judgment and establish His rule. His title, "King of kings and Lord of lords," underscores His absolute authority. At this time, He will defeat the armies of the beast and bind Satan (Revelation 20:1-3), initiating a reign of righteousness.

The Resurrection and Final Judgment

The resurrection is a cornerstone of end-times prophecy, affirming the hope of eternal life. Jesus taught that "the hour is coming, in which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation" (John 5:28-29). Revelation 20:12-15 further describes the judgment, where all are judged according to their works, as recorded in the books.

The judgment concludes with the destruction of death and Hades, symbolizing the end of sin’s dominion. Those not found in the book of life are cast into the lake of fire, which is the second death (Revelation 20:14-15). This eternal punishment signifies complete separation from Jehovah, not eternal conscious torment but annihilation.

The Role of the Jewish People in the End Times

The role of the Jewish people in the end times has been a significant topic of theological debate. Paul addresses this subject comprehensively in Romans 9-11, emphasizing that God's promises to Israel remain valid but are fulfilled through faith in Christ.

A Partial Hardening and Future Hope

Paul explains that Israel's current unbelief is a partial and temporary hardening, allowing Gentiles to enter God's kingdom (Romans 11:25). However, he holds out hope for a future turning of the Jewish people to Christ, as foretold in Matthew 23:39: "Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord."

This hope does not signify the restoration of an ethnic or national Israel as God's chosen people but their inclusion in the spiritual Israel through faith. The olive tree metaphor in Romans 11:17-24 illustrates this truth, as natural branches (unbelieving Jews) can be grafted back if they do not persist in unbelief.

The End-Time Salvation of Israel

Revelation’s depiction of the 144,000 sealed from the tribes of Israel (Revelation 7:4-8) is a literal reference to Jewish believers who will recognize Jesus as the Messiah during the tribulation. Their testimony will be instrumental in the events leading to Christ’s return. This aligns with the understanding that salvation for Jews, as for Gentiles, is exclusively through Jesus Christ (John 14:6).

The Eternal State and New Creation

The apocalyptic narrative concludes with the establishment of a new heaven and a new earth. Revelation 21:1-4 describes a renewed creation where "the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people." This eternal state is characterized by the absence of sin, suffering, and death, fulfilling Jehovah's promise to make all things new (Revelation 21:5).

The city of New Jerusalem symbolizes the culmination of God’s redemptive plan. Its description, with gates named after the tribes of Israel and foundations bearing the names of the apostles (Revelation 21:12-14), signifies the unity of all God's people under His eternal rule.

Conclusion

The Bible’s apocalyptic revelations affirm Jehovah’s sovereignty and faithfulness, offering hope to His people through the promise of Christ’s return and the ultimate restoration of creation. These prophecies call believers to steadfast faith and readiness, knowing that the fulfillment of God’s plan is certain.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220 books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).