This . . .
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Matthew 24
32 “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. 33 So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors! 34 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.
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Luke 21
25 “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; 26 men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.”
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I Thessalonians 5
1 But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober.
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That . . .
I believe that we are in the generation of the Lord's return. My brain says, "interesting, but unlikely". My Spirit says, "Jesus is returning soon . . . for real".
What do you think?
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This is That . . .
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Joel 2:11
For the day of the LORD is great and very terrible;
The "day of the Lord" speaks of the days leading up to His return. Similar to "The days of Noah". During this time period, the earth will experience two great extremes - the "great" and the "very terrible". Evil is going to increase to an unprecidented level. In the midst of the "very terrible" increase, God is going to pour out his power and Spirit on those who say yes to him. This is the "great" part of the day of the Lord.
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Why study the end times?
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1. It prepares the Church to be victorious in love with power during the most dramatic time in history.
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2. It prepares the Church to participate in the coming revival instead of neglecting or resisting it.
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3. It prepares the Church to rightly interpret the crisis instead of being offended at God by it.
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4. It awakens the Church to urgency in intercession in knowing their prayers can minimize evil and increase victory in specific regions. (Joel 2:13-14 & Zep. 2:3)
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5. It strengthens our confidence in God's sovereignty by knowing that He is in control and is never surprised.
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More tomorrow.