One change in perspective can make a world of difference. We’ve been talking about the events related to Covid-19, the staggering unemployment numbers, the horrible death of George Floyd, and the ensuing nationwide riots that have been taken place. How does all of this fit into Bible prophecy you ask? In 2 Timothy 3:1, Paul said, “Mark this. There will be terrible (brutal, dangerous, scary) times in the last days.”
One of the other qualities Paul mentioned in the list that followed his opening line is lawlessness. 2 Thessalonians 2:7 informs us that “the secret power of lawlessness is already at work.” That passage goes on to say that this lawlessness will come into full bloom after the rapture. Lawlessness will characterize the world and the future antichrist after the rapture of the Church (all true believers worldwide). The Holy-Spirit-indwelled Church is holding that lawlessness back and keeping it from taking center stage.
What we are seeing in the realm of lawlessness (whether by rogue police officers, politicians, paid anarchists, or rage-filled citizens) is the secret power of lawlessness trying to push in and take over. When that dam bursts, the Church will be removed—and visa versa. When the Church is removed, that dam will burst. It seems to me that the dam is almost to the point where it will give way. Were it not for God’s sovereign timing—and the preserving effect of the salt and light of the Church, it would have burst long ago.
God’s timing is perfect. All of this was foretold. Keep that in perspective and it should take away the fear and anxiety that is gripping so many. I’m an optimist by nature, but God’s Word informs us that these birth pains (Matthew 24/Luke 21) will get worse, not better. I believe (based on a passage in Isaiah) that the birth pains will lead up to the rapture and the “birth” that will occur is God’s wrath against evil. We know that time of wrath as the tribulation period. So, as much of an optimist as I am, all of this is leading to global calamity—yet I have hope. My perspective helps me see that #1 the rapture will (from all indicators) most likely be in our lifetime, and #2 there is still time to turn to the Savior!
People will be able to put their faith in Christ after the rapture—and I believe multitudes will after seeing the reality of the rapture. But, most will be martyred for their faith at that time. Let’s leverage everything to point people to Jesus in these unprecedented times.