As followers of Christ, we all long for the day when Jesus returns to this earth. And while we all wonder when that day could be, one thing is for sure – we’re closer than we were yesterday. Matthew 24:36 says, “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” It’s impossible to pinpoint the exact date, so what are some of the clues that the Bible gives us to look for as the time approaches?

Great Tribulation

“For in those days there will be such tribulation as has not been from the beginning of the creation that God created until now, and never will be.” – Mark 13:19
We must always remember that before the world sees Jesus in all of His glory, tribulation must come first. Trouble of all kinds – natural disasters, war, disease, etc. – will afflict the earth, preparing it for the coming wrath of God.

Widespread Evil

“But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy…” – 2 Timothy 3:1-2
Another key feature of the end times is the sheer prevalence of evil in the world. People have always been sinful, since the fall of mankind. But during this time, sin will not only be practiced, but accepted and celebrated. It seems like our world is hurtling toward this condition faster and faster each day.

Persecution

“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake.” – Matthew 24:9
This is a chilling reality. Before Jesus comes, those who follow Him will suffer great things. Many will die for His sake. If this were to happen in our lifetime, would we be ready? Would we remain faithful even to the point of death?

The Spreading of the Gospel

“And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
– Matthew 24:14
The spreading of the gospel is one of the most important indicators of the last days. Why? Because the building of God’s Kingdom has always been the mission. He desires that as many people as possible can be saved before it’s too late. And because of modern technology, sharing the gospel is easier than ever.
When you consider the prophecies, the Second Coming of Jesus can suddenly seem terrifying. But Hebrews 9:28 says, “so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.” If you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you don’t have to fear anything that happens on this earth. We don’t know when He will return, but we can be confident that we will be with Him in eternity.