Podcasts about Second Coming

Most Christians have at least some knowledge of prophecy and of our Lord's second coming. The Bible, however, teaches that the ancient Prophet Elijah may also come again. Confirmation of this seldom-heard teaching comes from an unlikely source—ancient Jewish tradition! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1094/29?v=20251111

2 Peter 1:16-21

For centuries, believers have debated the true identity, mission, crucifixion, miracles, and hidden teachings of Jesus Christ. In this powerful episode, we explore some of the deepest mysteries surrounding Jesus (Isa), including the Transfiguration, the crucifixion, the fig tree prophecy, ancient Christian symbolism, Islamic narrations, hidden biblical meanings, and the connection between Jesus and the awaited Mahdi. Drawing from the Quran, the Bible, Shi'a narrations, and the teachings of Imam Ahmed Al-Hassan, this lecture uncovers astonishing insights rarely discussed in mainstream Christianity or Islam. This episode is essential viewing for Christians, Muslims, truth seekers, students of comparative religion, biblical prophecy researchers, and anyone interested in the hidden mysteries of Jesus, the end times, the Mahdi, Imam Mahdi, Islamic esotericism, Gnostic Christianity, ancient icons, the crucifixion of Jesus, the Second Coming, and the deeper spiritual meanings behind scripture. Watch until the end for a fascinating exploration into one of the most mysterious figures in human history.

Be Patient Until the Lord Comes Pastor Kevin Poole Download James 5:7-11Keywords: Poor, Waiting, Second Coming, Patience, Expectation

Most Christians have at least some knowledge of prophecy and of our Lord's second coming. The Bible, however, teaches that the ancient Prophet Elijah may also come again. Confirmation of this seldom-heard teaching comes from an unlikely source—ancient Jewish tradition! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1094/29?v=20251111

Most Christians have at least some knowledge of prophecy and of our Lord's second coming. The Bible, however, teaches that the ancient Prophet Elijah may also come again. Confirmation of this seldom-heard teaching comes from an unlikely source—ancient Jewish tradition! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1094/29?v=20251111

Most Christians have at least some knowledge of prophecy and of our Lord's second coming. The Bible, however, teaches that the ancient Prophet Elijah may also come again. Confirmation of this seldom-heard teaching comes from an unlikely source—ancient Jewish tradition! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1094/29?v=20251111

The guys celebrate the release of The Second Coming of John Cooper, Kevin survived his uneventful cruise and Shuddy Boy hosts an R rated comedy edition of the Letterboxd Game.

Most Christians have at least some knowledge of prophecy and of our Lord's second coming. The Bible, however, teaches that the ancient Prophet Elijah may also come again. Confirmation of this seldom-heard teaching comes from an unlikely source—ancient Jewish tradition! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1094/29?v=20251111

If a book promises to give you the heart of God while quietly replacing His words with someone else's, that's not a translation. It's a trap. And the trap has a paper trail.ABOUT THIS EPISODE:The Passion Translation has been endorsed by some of the most influential voices in the charismatic world. Bill Johnson called it the best thing to happen to Bible translation in his lifetime. It's been sold in Bethel's bookstore, read in prayer rooms, and handed to new believers across the movement.David Fish and JonMark Baker of the Minor Prophets Podcast spent weeks comparing the Passion Translation, line by line, against its claimed sources. What they found isn't a matter of interpretation. It's documented.Where Brian Simmons departs from the Greek text, and claims an "Aramaic" source, the renderings don't match the Peshitta, the actual Syriac New Testament. They match the Mirror Bible, The Message, and other fringe paraphrases. Fish found over 300 instances in Paul's epistles alone. Simmons also claimed co-translator credentials on a Kuna New Testament. Ethnos 360, the mission that ran the project, says he was NEVER a Bible translator. The organization's own personnel said so on record.The second half of this episode goes deeper: into Simmons' theology. In his own words, in multiple recordings, he redefines the second coming of Christ as an unveiling of a glorified end-times people rather than a bodily return. He calls the physical second coming "not in the Bible." He says, directly: "Christ is no longer a person. He is now a body, a corporate expression." That's not a slip. That's a system, and it has a name: Manifested Sons of God theology has a long history in the fringe of the charismatic world, and Brian Simmons is teaching it from the platform the movement handed him.Join us to hear the evidence for yourself as fellow continuationists examine the paper trail.0:00 – Introduction3:55 – Plagiarism Discovery Explained5:53 – Examples of Copied Verses8:16 – Why Simmons Changed Text12:07 – Lessening Judgment: John 1513:29 – Is Simmons a Universalist?16:46 – Simmons' Fabricated Credentials18:44 – Ethnos360 Exposes Simmons20:01 – Manifested Sons Theology37:21 – "I Know When Jesus Returns"57:58 – "I Am My Lover" Clip1:06:35 – "Christ Is No Longer A Person"1:14:26 – Closing ThoughtsRESOURCES MENTIONED:- The Minor Prophets/Mike Winger episode:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9--owgBjtA- Andrew Chapman's Research: https://theriveroflife.com/category/the-passion-anti-translation/- Mike Winger's Research on The Passion Translation: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuv-ISp_iIw1WL8zaEm86L8 and https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHvXha4rjCj1Po0WLQc_jGGW- Handbook on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament — G.K. Beale https://a.co/d/09nG966Z- Typology-Understanding the Bible's Promise-Shaped Patterns: How Old Testament Expectations are Fulfilled in Christ - James Hamilton https://a.co/d/01jQgVDWPETITION:Sign the petition to request YouVersion remove the Passion Translation: https://www.change.org/p/an-appeal-to-youversion-to-remove-the-passion-translation/psf/membership-ask?experience=member&allow_actions=trueSubscribe to The Remnant Radio newsletter and receive our FREE introduction to spiritual gifts eBook. Plus, get access to: discounts, news about upcoming shows, courses and conferences - and more. Subscribe now at TheRemnantRadio.com. Support the showABOUT THE REMNANT RADIO: The Remnant Radio exists to equip believers who are hungry for the radical middle of both Word and Spirit. Subscribe for twice-weekly content on theology, church history and the gifts of the Spirit.

Most Christians have at least some knowledge of prophecy and of our Lord's second coming. The Bible, however, teaches that the ancient Prophet Elijah may also come again. Confirmation of this seldom-heard teaching comes from an unlikely source—ancient Jewish tradition! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1094/29?v=20251111

Send us Fan MailHardly anyone likes to think about death, but we should! Every single person is made up of both a physical body and a soul. What happens to those souls when our physical bodies die. Does a believer's soul immediately go to heaven and an unbeliever's soul immediately go to hell? Do all souls enter a "soul sleep" waiting to for the day when they can unite with their physical bodies? Or is there an intermediate place that souls go to await the Last Day and Jesus' Second Coming? And how about those resurrected bodies? What will a believer's resurrected body look like? What will an unbeliever's resurrected body look like? Join us as we begin a two-part series taking a Biblical look at, "The Truth About What Happens to Us When We Die."Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to check out everything Proverbs 9:10 on our website, www.proverbs910ministries.com! You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Rumble, YouTube, Twitter, Truth Social, and Gettr!

June 7th 2026 Coming Soon Do you feel like something is spiritually building in our world? Jesus told us to pay attention, stay ready, and live with hope. In this message, Pastor Scott Anderson walks through what the Bible says about the end times, including the Rapture, Tribulation, Second Coming of Christ, Armageddon, the Millennium, Final Judgment, and the promise of a New Heaven and New Earth. While many people approach prophecy with fear or confusion, Scripture points us toward hope, comfort, and confidence in God's plan. Because of Jesus' death and resurrection, believers can face the future with peace and purpose. Jesus died. Jesus rose. Jesus is coming again. Listen now and discover how the promise of Christ's return should impact the way we live today.   https://www.lifechurchwilm.com/

What does the Bible have to say about the return of Jesus Christ? Find out with Tim Moore and Nathan Jones on Christ in Prophecy Radio!

Steve Swartz, 1 Corinthians 15:51-53. From the "Millennium: The Rapture, Tribulation, and Second Coming" series.More sermons available online at www.gbcob.org.

Steve Swartz, 1 Corinthians 15:51-53. From the "Millennium: The Rapture, Tribulation, and Second Coming" series.More sermons available online at www.gbcob.org.

Steve Swartz, 1 Corinthians 15:51-53. From the Millennium: The Rapture, Tribulation, and Second Coming series. More sermons available online at www.steadfastinthefaith.org.

Most Christians have at least some knowledge of prophecy and of our Lord's second coming. The Bible, however, teaches that the ancient Prophet Elijah may also come again. Confirmation of this seldom-heard teaching comes from an unlikely source—ancient Jewish tradition! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1094/29?v=20251111

Though they're often confused, there is a difference between the rapture of the church and second coming of Jesus. And pastor John Randall will help us make the distinction, as well as share where he believes each fall on the prophetic calendar. By the end of our time together, you can be rapture ready! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1368/29?v=20251111

Last week the folks at Fox News put most of their focus on promoting Republican candidates across the country. The network didn't praise GOP hopefuls as much as it trashed Democrats.James Talarico, a U.S. Senate candidate in Texas, was presented as a politically radical girly soy boy who munched on vegan burgers and thought that God was transgender. Graham Platner, a U.S. Senate candidate in Maine, was a Nazi, communist and a trust fund brat all at once.New York Governor Kathy Hochul was a radical socialist in close cahoots with the ultimate Marxist mastermind New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani.The only Republican candidate who was mentioned far more than his Democratic opponents was Spencer Pratt. Fox News treated his main rival, Karen Bass, the current mayor of the city, as an afterthought.Pratt was championed as the next MAGA messiah who would galvanize Angelenos to a path out of socialist mismanagement of the second largest city in America. Pratt was Trump 2.0 - an angry aggrieved privileged white man who would solve problems simply by insulting people and attacking the most marginalized.Fox News also continued its confused and uneven coverage of what President Trump calls his ‘minor excursion' into the Middle East.Jesse Watters presented the war like any 12-year-old might discuss his favorite video game. Sean Hannity continued to insist that every hiccup and stalled peace talk was all part of Trump's master plan.The folks on The Five largely ignored the war while stuffed shirts on Fox & Friends were the only hosts on the network who continued to show tiny glimmers of doubt. The lone voice on Fox News that appears to approach the war with any sense of gravitas is Trey Yingst the chief foreign correspondent currently stationed in Tel Aviv, Israel.Fox News also spent a lot of air time criticizing former First Lady Jill Biden for statements she made about her husband in a book about her time in the White House.Mrs. Biden was lambasted for saying she wondered if Joe Biden was having a stroke during his wretched debate performance against Trump. Jill Biden's decision to have her husband visit a Waffle House after the event was portrayed as elder abuse and dangerously reckless. The term ‘Waffle House' showed up 13 times in the transcripts from last week.Segments that were critical of the Biden family took up 7% of the airtime last week. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit decodingfoxnews.substack.com/subscribe

With all that's been going on in our world, there's an increased interest in Bible prophecy. And so we thought this would be a good time to go through Revelation with you. Maybe you've been wondering, could Jesus come back for His church very soon? And what is the Second Coming of Christ, and what will it entail? We're about to find out. And pastor John Randall will also explain the difference between the second coming and the rapture. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1368/29?v=20251111

Major scandals continue to plague the Church! Join Christine Darg on the Jerusalem Channel as she discusses the vital role of intercessory prayer in supporting God's servants. Spiritual battles faced by leaders call for prayer warriors to safeguard them from the powers of darkness. Dedicated prayers can protect ministers and their families from enemy attacks, temptations, and spiritual warfare. Christine emphasizes the importance of consistent, fervent intercession and shares biblical examples of how prayer has changed the course of history. This insightful program encourages viewers to become part of the defense force for God's ministers, ensuring their safety and success in spreading the gospel.

Happy Pride Month! Dive into an oldie but a goodie with this episode on an iconic sapphic romance. The pod will be back with a new episode next week! - Hey pals! Today, we're raving over DELILAH GREEN DOESN'T CARE by Ashley Herring Blake. Join grumpy NYC lesbian Delilah and sunshine PNW small town bisexual and single mom Claire as they reluctantly fall in love and try to sabotage their friend's wedding. Delilah Green is possibly the hottest woman we've read in a book. Claire is the cutest. And we fell in love with this book. Enjoy the show! Brazen banter: A pitch for Taylor Swift's Eras Tour! The anatomy of a wicked stepsister! Having children with a man? Cat Scale: 6 Revolutionary Resources Astrid Parker Doesn't Fail Attachment styles   SUPPORT THE PODCAST by visiting my Bookshop.org Storefront to get any book mentioned in the episode. If you use this link or go directly from my store, I earn a small commission. You can also buy me a coffee, shop some WRION merch, or grab something from my sapphic, bookish Etsy shop! FOLLOW THE PODCAST on Instagram/Threads @wereaditonenight or FOLLOW ME on Instagram @thealisonfinch Facebook: We Read It One Night Email: wereaditonenight [at] gmail.com

Revelation 21 21 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”  5 And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”6 And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment.7 The one who conquers will have this heritage, and I will be his God and he will be my son.8 But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”   9 Then came one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues and spoke to me, saying, “Come, I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb.”10 And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God,11 having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.12 It had a great, high wall, with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and on the gates the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel were inscribed—13 on the east three gates, on the north three gates, on the south three gates, and on the west three gates.14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb...  22 And I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb.23 And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb.24 By its light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it,25 and its gates will never be shut by day—and there will be no night there.26 They will bring into it the glory and the honor of the nations.27 But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life.   Introduction: The End Toward Which Everything Moves God's Final Goal Is Restoration, Not Escape (Vv.1–2) God Will Dwell with His People (V.3) The End of Suffering, Death, and Curse (V.4) Eternal Worship and Joyful Service (22:3-5) Application: How We Must Live          1. Hope Shapes Holiness (1 John 3:2–3)          2. Long for God's Presence (Psalm 73:25)        3. Live with Eternal Perspective (Colossians 3:2)

Could we actually be the final generation? In this episode, Tony and John Bevere dive deep into the biblical, historical, and prophetic markers that point to a critical timeline between 2026 and 2075. From the ancient calculations of the Essenes and the Dead Sea Scrolls to the modern state of the global church, we explore the urgent reality of the season we are living in.  John Bevere is a respected minister, bestselling author, and co-founder of Messenger International, whose decades of teaching have deeply shaped the global Christian community. With more than 40 years in ministry and over 25 books to his name, John brings a weighty, Scripture-centered perspective to one of the most avoided and misunderstood topics in the church today: the return of Jesus Christ. Together, Tony and John discuss John's new book, "The King Is Coming", and why studying the second coming should not produce fear, laziness, or arguments, but urgency, holiness, and a deeper love for Jesus. John explains why believers must see Christ's return not merely as an end-times event, but as the long-awaited wedding of the ages between the Bridegroom and His bride.Please pray for Tony's wife, Lindsay, as she battles breast cancer. Your prayers make a difference!If you're able, consider helping the Merkel family with medical expenses by donating to Lindsay's GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/b8f76890

What will it feel like to see Jesus—truly see Him—for the very first time? In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef shares the true account of William Montague Dyke, a blind man who longed to see his bride's face. After a risky surgery, he asked that his bandages be removed at the altar so his first sight would be her coming down the aisle. When he finally saw her, he whispered, “At last.” Dr. Youssef points to a far greater moment awaiting every believer: in heaven we won't first see the bride—we will see the Bridegroom. All our lives we've seen “through a glass darkly,” but the day is coming when we will behold Jesus face to face—and John tells us we will be transformed in that moment: “We shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2). The hope of Christ's return is a comfort to those who love Him and long for His appearing, but it is also a warning—and an invitation—to those who have not yet received Him. Jesus' promise still stands: “Yes, I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:20). Don't delay. Receive Him now—and He will receive you into heaven. Prayer: Jesus, may my love for You ever deepen as I understand the magnitude of my sin and the overwhelming redemptive power of Your love. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lambhas come, and his bridehas made herself ready” (Revelation 19:7). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Revelation for Today, Coming Soon: WATCH NOW|LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 06/2/2026) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CARM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include: Are you good enough for Heaven?/ Propitiation, a sacrifice that turns away wrath/Does it happen for every Believer/ When is the Second Coming of Christ?/God's relationship to time/ Ask and Trust according to God's Will/ Teaching a False Gospel/ The Trinity and the distinction between the Father, Son and Holy Spirit/ June 2, 2026

In this episode, we feature an event with Colm Tóibín in conversation with Garth Risk Hallberg, held at the Montclair Literary Festival for the launch of Toibin's latest book, The News from Dublin.Colm Tóibín is the author of eleven novels, including Long Island, an Oprah's Book Club Pick; The Magician, winner of the Rathbones Folio Prize; The Master, winner of the Los Angeles Times Book Prize; Brooklyn, winner of the Costa Book Award; and Nora Webster, winner of the Hawthornden Prize, as well as three story collections and several books of criticism. He is the Irene and Sidney B. Silverman Professor of the Humanities at Columbia University and was named the 2022–2024 Laureate for Irish Fiction by the Arts Council of Ireland. In 2021, he was awarded the David Cohen Prize for Literature.Garth Risk Hallberg's first novel, City on Fire, was a New York Times and international bestseller and was selected as one of the best books of 2015 by The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, San Francisco Chronicle, The Wall Street Journal, NPR, and Vogue. It was the basis for the Apple TV+ series of the same name. His second novel, The Second Coming, about a troubled teen whose father is a recovering addict, was released in 2024 and is in paperback now. He is also the author of the novella A Field Guide to the North American Family. In 2017, Granta named him one of the Best of Young American Novelists. His work has been translated into seventeen languages.Resources:Seamus Heaney 1995 Nobel Prize Speech ( Poetry in Conflict quote)Thomas Mann's Brother Hitler EssayBooks:A full list of the books and authors mentioned in this episode is available here.Register for Upcoming Events.The Watchung Booksellers Podcast is produced by Kathryn Counsell and Marni Jessup and is recorded at Watchung Booksellers in Montclair, NJ. The show is edited by Kathryn Counsell.Original music is composed and performed by Violet Mujica. Research and show notes by Caroline Shurtleff.Thanks to all the staff at Watchung Booksellers and The Kids' Room!If you liked our episode please like, follow, and share!Stay in touch!Email: wbpodcast@watchungbooksellers.comSocial: @watchungbooksellersSign up for our newsletter to get the latest on our shows, events, and book recommendations!

Apostle Joseph Assabil, throws more light on this in this insightful message titled "Living In Anticipation Of Jesus' Second Coming" at the Global Ministers Conference 2026 at PCC. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Apostle James gives us two groups of warnings for the end times.  Let's look at who these warnings target, and what we can learn from them.James 5:7 KJVBe patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.Related Podcasts:— Persistent and Consistent — Prayer Life— We Have Need of Patience— God's Promises to me are sure— Having the Right Perspective— Search Me, O God— Answered of the Lord, Part 1— Answered of the Lord, Part 2— What Doest Thou Here, Elijah?— Time to Press Forward— Let Not Your Heart Be TroubledRelated Podcasts at TrueWisdom:— Prayer & Prophecy— How Should We Relate to the Cares of This Life?— Knowing God's Will, Part 1— Knowing God's Will, Part 2Text UsSupport the showSend questions or comments to: BibleQuestions@ASBzone.comThe Key Principles of Effective Bible Study is a resource which outlines core concepts shown in the Scriptures that will help you to better understand many Biblical themes and doctrines.  We have an extended, 24-part podcast series on these principles, and a condensed, 9-part series called God's Precious Word, that is based on the same resource.We also recommend that you check out the True Wisdom podcast which I co-host with Robert Baker -- a different format for Bible Study.Finally, check out these awesome Bible Maps!We pray that all of these resources will be very helpful to you in your Bible Studies.

Steve Swartz, John 14:1-4. From the "Millennium: The Rapture, Tribulation, and Second Coming" series.More sermons available online at www.gbcob.org.

Steve Swartz, John 14:1-4. From the "Millennium: The Rapture, Tribulation, and Second Coming" series.More sermons available online at www.gbcob.org.

The End of the World Jonathan Parnell Download Psalm 97,The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice;let the many coastlands be glad!2 Clouds and thick darkness are all around him;righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.3 Fire goes before himand burns up his adversaries all around.4 His lightnings light up the world;the earth sees and trembles.5 The mountains melt like wax before the Lord,before the Lord of all the earth.6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness,and all the peoples see his glory.7 All worshipers of images are put to shame,who make their boast in worthless idols;worship him, all you gods!8 Zion hears and is glad,and the daughters of Judah rejoice,because of your judgments, O Lord.9 For you, O Lord, are most high over all the earth;you are exalted far above all gods.10 O you who love the Lord, hate evil!He preserves the lives of his saints;he delivers them from the hand of the wicked.11 Light is sown for the righteous,and joy for the upright in heart.12 Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!This morning I want to talk to you about the end of the world. For as long as there has been a world, humanity has been fascinated with this topic. This has been true of cultures all over the world all throughout history — from Ancient Mesopotamia to Chinese dynasties, from Norse Vikings to sub-Saharan Africa, from medieval Europeans to modern Americans — it's a human thing to wonder about the world's end.And in the Bible itself, the end of the world was on the table right away!In the Book of Genesis, just five chapters in, the Flood could have been the final judgment to end the world — and it would have been if not for the mercy of God!But because of God's mercy, and because of his patience (the apostle Peter tells us), the final end of the world has been delayed. Still.But the end is coming, and that's what I want to talk about this morning. And the real reason I wanna talk about the end of the world is because it's the topic of Psalm 97.There are three parts to the psalm, and I'm gonna title each part with what its mainly about:Part 1, verses 1–6 is Christ will come again.Part 2, verses 7–9 is Every human will respond. Part 3, verses 10–12 is How God's people live in the meantime.We're gonna spend most of our time on Part 3, but first Part 1.1. Christ will come again (vv. 1–6)Psalm 97, verse 1 just picks up where Psalm 96 left off. Psalm 96 envisions all of creation rejoicing, and the last verse of Psalm 96 explains why. This rejoicing is, verse 13,“…before the Lord, for he comes, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness, and the peoples in his faithfulness.”97:1, then, says: Yes, that's right, the Lord reigns and all the earth rejoices, even the coastlands. That's the deepest corners of the earth. The parts way out there.Then verses 2–5 describe the coming of God with this intense imagery. Listen to this: clouds and thick darkness. A throne of righteousness and justice. Fire going before him, consuming his adversaries. Lightning flashes. The earth itself trembles. Mountains melt like wax.To a casual reader, this sounds like a really bad thunderstorm. But when we have the whole Bible in mind, we can pick up the allusion to Mount Sinai. Mount Sinai was when God came down on the mountain to give the law: Exodus 19:18,“Now Mount Sinai was wrapped in smoke because the LORD had descended on it in fire. The smoke of it went up like the smoke of a kiln, and the whole mountain trembled greatly.”Deuteronomy 4:11,“the mountain burned with fire to the heart of heaven, wrapped in darkness, cloud, and gloom.”The Final TheophanyThis was an amazing moment in history. The word for it is a ‘theophany' — which means a God-appearing. That's what Sinai was.And now Psalm 97 is describing another theophany — it's a future, final God-appearing, that's envisioned to be like Sinai!That's because the Original Law-Giver and the Final Judge are the same. That's why the imagery is the same, except in this future, final appearing, God comes in the person of Jesus Christ. We know this from the New Testament: John 5:11,“The Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son.”Matthew 24:30,“Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man… and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”2 Thessalonians 1:7,“the Lord Jesus [will be] revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire…”The end of the world is now what we call the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The God who once descended on Sinai in clouds and fire will appear again finally in the person of Christ, and “every eye will see him” — Revelation 1:7. Everybody will see him, and everybody will respond, one way or another. That's Part 2.2. Every human will respond (vv. 7–9) Humanity is divided into two categories that will be clearest on the final day of judgment.Jesus has called these categories the wheat and the tares. The Psalms use the language of the righteous and the wicked. The New Testament draws the line as between believers and unbelievers — those who are in Christ and those who are not. And when Jesus comes back every eye will see him — those who have been united to him by faith and those who have rejected him. They all will see him, but they're gonna respond differently. Shame for IdolatersVerse 7 tells us the unbelievers (those who reject Christ) will be put to shame — but here they're described as the “worshipers of images” … as those who “boast in worthless idols.” Which is a good reminder! I want you to get this: there is really no such thing as an unbeliever. Everybody believes in something. The question is never if you believe, but who you believe in. So, unbelievers are always more accurately called “idolaters.” They've chosen to reject the one true God, and instead, they've replaced him with some other ‘little-g god' — and for the last hundred years in our society, the ‘little-g god' of choice is the Modern Self. That's the point of theologian Carl Trueman's book, The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self (it's a helpful book written a few years ago).In one sense, modern idolatry is as old as it comes — our society has “exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen” — that's Romans 1:25.But what makes us different today is that, with our technologies, we have said, “I will make myself like the Most High” (Isaiah 14:14) …So we want to create human life … We want to determine our own sexuality …We want to invent our own morality … We want to become super human in our daily lives and live longer than ever … We even want to have the final say on when and how we die … The whole thing is about putting Self in the place of God.That's what transhumanism is — it starts with the myth of exclusive humanism (that's the idea that there is no God, but only us). That paves the way for the idolatry of the Self — the idea that “We are all God.” And right now, it's just so clear that's what's going on. If you look around in our culture, the idolatry of Self is having its moment. But on the day Jesus returns, at the end of the world, every unbeliever/every idolater/everyone who rejects Jesus will be put to shame. That means eternal regret. They will hate the choices they have made. The lies they have embraced will be exposed. And the demonic forces behind the idolatry will also bow the knee in submission to Jesus! (That's the end of verse 7.) The Day is coming. Joy for BelieversBut now in verse 8 notice the contrast to believers, to those who trust in Christ — that's who Zion and Judah represent. It's the people of God. Zion is glad! The daughters of Judah rejoice! And the mention of “daughters” in verse 8 is an idiom for villages or small towns. (This is an insight from Christopher Ash.) He says the idea here is that it's not just the capital city, Zion, that rejoices, but it's all believers everywhere! Even what might seem like the smallest outpost of kingdom of Christ, even the parts way out there, like in the middle of North America — on that day we're all rejoicing together … believers from “every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages” … We will all say, “Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory!” (Revelation 7:9; 19:7). On that day, verse 9 will be the clearest reality of all:“For you, O Lord, are most high over all the earth;you are exalted far above all gods.”In other words, Jesus has ultimate supremacy … “every knee will bow, in heaven and on earth and under earth, and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:11).This is what Psalm 97 is getting at. In summary, Psalm 97:1–9 is the Christian hope in a nutshell: One day Jesus is coming back in judgment and salvation — judgment for those who reject him and salvation for those who trust him. And by his grace, church, we trust him. We will rejoice on that day. We will love his future, final appearing! Amen.The big question now is: How do we live in the meantime?3. How do God's people live in the meantime?Now this is the church's question. We ask it together, and the New Testament is all about it. But verses 10–12 in Psalm 97 give us a pretty good answer, and that's what I wanna show you. But I want to help you bring it down more personally. This is a topic that can be so out there and theoretical, but don't let it be. I want you to think, right now: Jesus is coming back one day. Now ask yourself this question: What does God want me to do in this life? How should I live in the meantime?According to verses 10, 11, 12, we see at least three answers. First is this:1. Lead a moral life.This is verse 10, and it's one you need to see. So everybody help me out. Find Psalm 97, verse 10:“O you who love the Lord, hate evil!”“Hate evil” — this is a command, and it's one that we are not set up well to understand. That's because “hate” is a biblically strong word that we use too commonly. And “evil” is a biblically common word that we use too strongly. That make sense? We've weakened the word hate and narrowed the word evil. So we have to slow down and think about this.To hate something is to have an intense hostility against it. It's not a mood, it's a conviction. We shouldn't casually throw the word around about food or weather or sports teams. And evil is anything that defies the moral will of God — anything that is a deprivation or distortion of God's goodness. It's not just the worst, most horrible things nobody likes to talk about. But truly, sin, of every kind, is evil. See, we often define evil horizontally: we think it has to do with how much hurt it causes other people. But the Bible, first, defines evil vertically: the issue is what it says about God.Evil is evil because it defies him, it rejects him, it dishonors him. This is why we must have a God-centered morality.Right and wrong, good and evil, is not whatever you want it to be in the moment. But good and evil — the moral framework of reality — is an objective standard determined by the righteousness of God, and he has revealed this to us as his moral will in Scripture. What a gift!God guides us how to live in harmony with his holiness. He shows us how to lead a moral life, which means we hate evil. I think this is one of the greatest needs in our day for the church's witness. We need moral clarity — the ability to recognize evil, the courage to call evil evil, and the God-centered conviction to hate evil.And that means the evil out there, but it starts first with the evil within our own hearts. It's been said that many Christians today are soft on evil. And wherever that's true, my theory is that we're soft on evil culturally because we're soft on evil personally, and we're soft on evil personally because our vision of God is small … Wherever our understanding of God's glory is frail, and our commitment to his word is weak, we will get this wrong.And if we're ever gonna experience true revival, in our church, in this country, it will include a recovery here. Spurgeon put it plainly. He said, “We cannot love God without hating what he hates.”Until Jesus returns, in the meantime, we're called … you're called … to lead a moral life.Second thing to do in the meantime …2. Lead a hopeful life. This is verse 11:“Light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart.”A few years back, the Holy Spirit made this verse pop off the page to me. I wrote it out on a notecard and put it on my desk. I think it's a glorious sentence. Notice first that it's an agricultural metaphor, which we see a lot of in Scripture. Light and joy are sown. The focus is on planting, on sowing, but the words “light” and “joy” sound more like a harvest. How do you sow light? How do you plant joy? You don't. You sow something else that, in the moment of sowing, looks different from what you hope it will become.I just re-seeded my front yard. Tall fescue grass: Thick, forest-green blades, cool to the touch on the hottest summer day, firm but humble, durable but inviting, elegant but approachable — oh it will be wonderful! But what I held in my hand, before I dropped it in the ground, looked nothing like that — it looked nothing like what it will become. It was just a seed.That's so much of life, isn't it? Life in this meantime is sowing. It's planting. And a lot of times, we want to judge the future harvest by how the seed looks now. It's such an easy mistake to make. How do we not do that?How can we call it light now in the sowing? How can we call it joy now? The answer is hope. Our hope is in the harvest, and it's so sure — God's promise is so certain — we can say the light is in the ground. The joy is coming, and it's already here. That's what it means to lead a hopeful life.Third thing to do in the meantime …3. Lead a thankful life.This is verse 12:“Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!”Rejoicing and thanksgiving — it's the same idea. We rejoice in God and we give him thanks in response to who he is and what he's done. Now, I'm just going to use the word thankful because it's the last word in verse 12 and it encapsulates joy. Thankfulness includes joy. And this is such a fitting way to conclude Psalm 97, and really, to conclude everything. For everyone who trusts in Christ, thankfulness will be the posture of our hearts at the end of the world. We begin doing now what we will do forever. We're called to lead a thankful life today: Colossians 3:15,“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… And be thankful.”1 Thessalonians 5:18,“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”Now, how do we do that? What does it look like to lead a thankful life?I think it comes down to the discipline of daily thankfulness.Very practically, just imagine how you start and end your days. You wake up every morning. We all start there. Now what if, first thing in the morning, when you're awake for your brain to work, you thanked God? Thank him for something specific — a provision, a gift, an experience. Start by thanking him. And then that night, with your head on your pillow, when God has brought you through another day, you end your day by thanking him for it. Even when things are tough, when things go sideways, in the full assessment of everything, there's a reason to be thankful. Give God thanks as you fall asleep, give God thanks when you wake up — and if you do that everyday that becomes a thankful life. It will be a life that honors God until that final day when we step into the eternal morning. This is how we live as we wait for the end of the world, because, as Psalm 97 shows us: Because Christ will come again. And every human will respond to his final appearing, either in shame or joy. And until that day, in the meantime, lead a moral life, lead a hopeful life, lead a thankful life.Father in heaven, the life to which you have called us is a life that you create. Thank you for the Holy Spirit! Thank you for his presence and power day by day, moment by moment. We need him. Thank you that your Spirit brought us from death to life through the gospel. Thank you that he opened our eyes to see Jesus and to know your great love for us.Thank you for the hope that your Spirit guarantees in our hearts — the hope that Jesus will return and make all things new. We long for that day. And we pray, with the apostle John, Come, Lord Jesus!In his name, amen.

The Truth About the Second Coming(2 Peter 3:1-18) The Truth About The Second Coming: 2 Peter 3:1-18 Ken Wilson For the bulletin in PDF form, click here.Message SlidesEschatology ChartRethinking the Return - SwindollHeaven - J.I. PackerSecond Coming - J.I. PackerThe New Creation Model - Micahel VlakA Dose of Discernment - SwindollClean Up, Look Ip, Speak Up - SwindollIntroduction: Eschatology 101Remember(A Ready Reminder of Timeless Truth)• Original Purpose: Reminders to stimulate right thinking (3:1).• Prophets & Apostles: False teachers and their judgment is nothing new (3:2-3).Understand(The Certainty of Judgment)• Last Days Questions: When is the coming of the Lord [to judge]? (3:4).• Last Days Answers: Judgment by water [past] and by fire [future] (3:5-7).Consider (8-10)(The Nature and Character of God)• Perspective: God's perspective is from outside a linear timeline (3:8).• Patience: God is waiting so that more people can know Him (3:9).Apply (11-18)(The Kind of People We Ought to Be)• New Heaven & New Earth: Live in light of an eternal future (3:10-13).• New Hope & New Commitment: Make an effort to understand and apply (3:14-16).• New Warning & New Security: Be on guard and grow (3:17-18).In light of the certain judgment to come on false teachers of every kind, and the hope of a new heaven and new earth for those who love God, we should be on our guard against deceptive teaching and live holy lives as a witness to a perishing world.FinancesWeekly Budget 34,615Giving For 05/17 20,967Giving For 05/24 29,133YTD Budget 1,626,923Giving 1,911,458 OVER/(UNDER) 284,535 Fellowship 101We invite you to join us on Sunday, June 14, at 9:00 a.m. to learn more about Fellowship. This is a great opportunity to hear about our mission, values, and our ministries. If you're new to Fellowship, join us in the conference room (first floor) to hear what God is doing and where He is taking us. During this time, you will meet some of our ministry leaders and get to ask questions. Register at fellowshipconway.org/register. New to Fellowship?We are so glad that you chose to worship with our Fellowship Family this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Fellowship Women's Bible Study - Knowing GodJoin us for “Knowing God,” a 4 week study of The Trinity by Rebecca Carter & Heather Harrison. We'll meet Tuesday nights at 6:30pm, beginning June 2nd at Fellowship. Register at fellowshipconway.org/women. Fellowship Kids VBS VolunteersWe're gearing up for an exciting week at Rome VBS, June 22–26 from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM, and we'd love for you to be part of it! There are lots of ways to serve — whether you enjoy working directly with kids, helping behind the scenes, leading crafts or games, decorating, setting up, preparing materials, or simply jumping in wherever needed. It takes many hands to make VBS a success, and every role makes a difference. Come help us create a fun, welcoming, and unforgettable week for our kids! Contact Heather Fulmer, hfulmer@fellowshipconway.org or Ashley Overstreet, aoverstreet@fellowshipconway.org to volunteer!Men's fellowship Smoke OffNothing brings men together like BBQ! Join us for the Men's Ministry Smoke-Off on Saturday, June 20, from 5–8 PM at The Venue at Fellowship — great food, baggo, board games, and conversations that matter with men worth knowing. Want to compete? Sign up when you register. RSVP today. Register at fellowshipconway.org/men. Life Choices Change For LifeToday is the day to turn in your baby bottle filled with cash or checks (made payable to Life Choices). If you weren't able to bring your bottles back today, please take them to Life Choices located at 1330 S. Donaghey Ave. Your generosity gives women in Central Arkansas facing unplanned pregnancies a safe place for spiritual, physical, and emotional support.Automate the ImportantWe understand that the summer months can be a whirlwind of new schedules and travel. To ensure the continuous growth of Fellowship's ministry, we encourage you to simplify your giving process by automating it. It's a straightforward and hassle-free process. Just visit fellowshipconway.org/give, click “Ready to Give?” then “Recurring,” and fill out the necessary information. If you need any assistance, feel free to reach out to John in our office at 501-327-3444 between 8:30 and 4:30, Monday through Thursday. Fathers Day Slide ShowWe will share a slide show of Fellowship fathers during both services on June 21. Please send one high-resolution photo (per family) to Lisa at lgerdes@fellowshipconway.org by June 15.

Acts Chapter 3: The Setting - Acts 3:1-5. The chapter takes place in the late afternoon at 3 pm, the time of the evening sacrifice. Peter and John are headed to the temple for prayer and worship and on the way they see a lame man who has been lame since birth collecting alms at the Beautiful gate. He asks Peter and John for money and Peter and John respond. What we learn from this setting is that prayer and worship were important. We also see their attentiveness to the hurting as an example for ourselves.   The Miracle - Acts 3:6-11. Peter responds to the lame man, "silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Peter takes the lame man's hand and helps him up. Right away the man's feet and ankles became strong and he jumps to his feet and walks. He goes with them into the Temple courts jumping and praising God. People see the lame man walking and are filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. They all begin to gather at Solomon's Colonnade. The word that's translated "jumping" is the very word in the book of Isaiah about what will happen when the Savior comes. See Isaiah 35:6.    What do we learn from the miracle? We see humility before God from Peter and John and they took no credit for the healing. They also spoke healing in the name of Jesus. Additionally, we see the power of Jesus' name. Jesus' name has the power to restore the broken and bitter, to break the chains of bondage, to transform minds and hearts. Jesus' name is powerful then and now.   The Message - Act 3:12-26. Peter tells the crowd it was not by their own power or godliness that made the man walk but that it was Jesus. He tells them how they had disowned Jesus, plotted to murder Him and then crucified Him. Peter goes on to tell of Jesus' resurrection and how they were witnesses. Peter also tells of Jesus' authority.  Peter goes on to tell them that he understands that they acted against Jesus in ignorance and that it is how God fulfilled what He had foretold through the prophets - in saying that the Messiah would suffer. Then Peter calls them to repent and turn to God so that their sins would be forgiven.  He calls them to turn to Jesus and prepare for the Second Coming, and calls them to a life-defining moment because God desires a change of heart.   What do we learn from Peter's message? We learn again of John and Peter's humility before God - taking no credit for the healing. They proclaimed Jesus to the crowd and the importance of knowing why He came and what He did for each one of us. Peter shares what the Scriptures tell us and how they point to Jesus as the fulfillment. Lastly, we see the call to repentance. Repentance is not a one time event, we are called to live a repentant life and to daily turn our hearts over to God.   This week's READING ASSIGNMENT:   Acts chapter 3 (if you want to read ahead, read chapter 4 as well)     Join the conversation around this teaching. Download our Awake Us Now APP, then join the conversation.   Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE.   Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/god-acts-then-now   Or watch from our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/@AwakeUsNow/streams   Join us Sundays live or on demand from our website  https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service

Steve Swartz, John 14:1-4. From the Millennium: The Rapture, Tribulation, and Second Coming series. More sermons available online at www.steadfastinthefaith.org.

Steve Swartz, John 14:1-4. From the Millennium: The Rapture, Tribulation, and Second Coming series. More sermons available online at www.steadfastinthefaith.org.

During the week leading up to Jesus crucifixion, He was asked by His disciples, What will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age? (Matt. 24:3). As you are already aware, Jesus warned that before His coming there would be false christs claiming to be Him, wars and rumors of wars, nations rising against nations, kingdoms rising against kingdoms, famines, and earthquakes in various places. Jesus said these things would be the beginning of birth pains leading up to the end (Matt. 24:18). After describing the abomination of desolation, which I believe was fulfilled in connection with the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, Jesus then looked beyond those days to the Day of His coming: Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. (Matt. 24:29-31) What Jesus describes in Matthew 24 is the same basic pattern Revelation shows us through the seals, trumpets, and bowls. These judgment cycles are not three unrelated timelines. They recapitulate the same period from different angles, each cycle intensifying until we arrive at what Scripture calls the Day of the Lord. The Day of the Lord is the day when God steps into history to judge the wicked, vindicate His people, and reveal that every kingdom of the world belongs to Him. This phrase appears throughout the Bible, and one of the clearest Old Testament passages behind Revelation 6 is Isaiah 2:1019, where the proud hide in the rocks from the terror of the Lord when He rises to shake the earth: Go into the rocks and hide in the dust from the terror of the LORD and the splendor of His majesty. The proud look of man will be humbled, and the loftiness of men brought low; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day. For the Day of the LORD of Hosts will come against all the proud and lofty, against all that is exalted it will be humbled.... So the pride of man will be brought low, and the loftiness of men will be humbled; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day, and the idols will vanish completely. Men will flee to caves in the rocks and holes in the ground, away from the terror of the LORD and from the splendor of His majesty, when He rises to shake the earth. That is exactly the kind of imagery John sees when the Lamb opens the sixth seal. The proud are humbled. The mighty are terrified. The earth is shaken. Every false refuge collapses. And the question at the end of Revelation 6 is not, How powerful are the kings of the earth? or How secure are the kingdoms of this world? The question is:Who is able to stand? Before each major judgment cycle in Revelation, John is shown a heavenly throne-room scene marked by storm imagery. And just as birth pains grow stronger as the birth draws near, the storm imagery intensifies as Revelation moves toward the final judgment. You can see this intensification in the way Revelation describes the storm coming from the throne: Revelation 4:5 Revelation 8:5 Revelation 11:19 Revelation 16:18, 21 Out from the throne came flashes of lightning and sounds and peals of thunder. And there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God; Then the angel took the censer and filled it with the fire of the altar, and hurled it to the earth; and there were peals of thunder and sounds, and flashes of lightning and an earthquake. And the temple of God which is in heaven was opened; and the ark of His covenant appeared in His temple, and there were flashes of lightning and sounds and peals of thunder, and an earthquake, and a great hailstorm. And there were flashes of lightning and sounds and peals of thunder; and there was a great earthquake, such as there had not been since mankind came to be upon the earth, so great an earthquake was it, and so mighty.... 21 And huge hailstones, weighing about a talent each, came down from heaven upon people; and people blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail, because the hailstone plague was extremely severe. We will look at each of these passages as we encounter them throughout this series. For now, all I want you to see is that each cycle of judgment describes a series of judgments that intensify the closer we come to what the Bible calls the Day of the Lord. History is not spinning out of control. There are no rogue molecules. Kings and rulers may strive after whatever they desire, but at the end of the day, Proverbs 21:1 is still true: The kings heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases (BSB). The same kings and rulers who seem so powerful now will one day cry out for the mountains and rocks to hide them from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb (Rev. 6:1516). Listen to me. Last week, when we looked at the opening of the fifth seal, we saw those who had been slain because of the word of God and because of the testimony they had maintained. They cried out, How long, O Lord? But they were not questioning Gods character. Their question was not aboutifGod would judge, butwhenHe would judge. And when the sixth seal is opened, John sees the answer. Jesus breaks the sixth seal, as He has with the previous five, serving as another reminder that all that has happened and will happen is under His sovereign will. Jesus second coming will be cosmic, comprehensive, and conclusive. The Day of the Lord will be Cosmic (vv. 12-14) When the Lamb opens the sixth seal, creation shakes. John sees a great earthquake, the sun blackened, the moon turning like blood, the stars falling to the earth, the sky rolling up like a scroll, and every mountain and island moved from its place. If we count the mountains and islands separately, John gives us a sevenfold picture of cosmic upheaval: earthquake, sun, moon, stars, sky, mountains, and islands. In a book where the number seven repeatedly signifies fullness, the point is clear: nothing in the cosmos will remain unmoved on the Day of the Lord. John is not giving us a scientific report of future astronomical events. He is using apocalyptic language to describe the severity of the judgment that will come when Jesus returns, especially the wrath that cities, nations, and empires will face when the true King of kings and Lord of lords comes to claim what belongs to Him. When Babylon fell, Isaiah spoke of the stars of heaven not giving their light, the sun being darkened, the moon not shining, the heavens trembling, and the earth being shaken out of its place (Isa. 13:913). When Egypt was judged, Ezekiel spoke of the heavens being covered, the stars being darkened, the sun being covered with a cloud, and the moon not giving its light (Ezek. 32:78). This does not mean there will be no supernatural, cataclysmic events that affect the cosmos at Jesus coming. It simply means Johns main point is not to satisfy our curiosity about the mechanics of the end, but to show us the severity of the judgment. John joins Isaiah and Jesus in using apocalyptic language to describe what is coming, but his words point to more than mere symbolism. The language used to describe the judgment of Egypt, Babylon, Jerusalem, and Rome pointed to very real and very severe judgments in history. But what John describes in the sixth seal points beyond those temporal judgments to the great and final Day of the Lord, when God will judge the wicked, vindicate His people, and reveal that every kingdom of the world belongs to Him. On the Day of the Lord, the world mankind trusted in, built upon, exploited, and worshiped will not shelter him from the One who made it all. Richard Phillips is right to describe verses 1214 as a kind of de-creation.[1] The old world, corrupted by Adams sin and condemned for rejecting Gods Son, will be shaken so that the new creation promised by God may come. John sees that everything that once seemed fixed, permanent, immutable, and dependable is shaken before the presence of God. When the Lamb breaks the sixth seal, creation comes undone. The Day of the Lord will be Comprehensive (vv. 15-16) If verses 1214 give us a sevenfold picture of creation being shaken, verses 1516 give us a sevenfold picture of humanity being exposed. The point is unmistakable: from kings to slaves, from the powerful to the powerless, from the highest throne to the lowest status in life, no one is exempt. The Day of the Lord will be comprehensive. Then the kings of the earth and the great ones and the generals and the rich and the powerful, and everyone, slave and free, hid themselves in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains, calling to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who is seated on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb, for the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand? All classes of society are mentioned in these verses. All are judged not by their status in the world but by their standing before the One on the throne and by whether they have been covered by the blood of the Lamb. Salvation cannot be found in wealth. It does not come from what one has accomplished in life. Nor is salvation automatically given to the poor, the slave, or the homeless simply because they had little or nothing on earth. The problem of mankind is a problem of the soul and the heart. All are born in sin, all are in rebellion, all are unrighteous, all are spiritually dead, and all enter this world as children of wrath. What we discover in each cycle of judgment is the hardening of the human heart. As the seals are broken, a fourth of the earth is given over to death, yet mankind does not run to the Lamb for salvation but hides from Him (Rev. 6:16). As the trumpets sound, judgment intensifies to one-third, yet mankind does not heed the warning but continues in idolatry, murder, sorcery, sexual immorality, and theft (Rev. 9:2021). As the bowls of wrath are poured out, judgment comes in full measure, yet mankind does not repent but blasphemes the God who judges them (Rev. 16:11, 21). With each cycle of judgment leading up to the Day of the Lord, the human heart is increasingly hardened against God: they hide, refuse to repent, and blaspheme. Now, this matters because Revelation 6 does not say mankind hides only from Him who sits on the throne, but also from the wrath of the Lamb. Therefore, do not make the mistake of thinking of the Father as angry and the Son as merciful, as though the mercy of Christ stands against the wrath of the Father. As John Piper points out, It would be a distortion if we thought of God pouring out wrath and his Son mercifully keeping us from the Fathers wrath. It would be a serious mistake to put the mercy of the Son against the wrath of the Father in this wayas if God were the just punisher and Christ the merciful rescuer.[2] This is the human condition, is it not? After Adam and Eve sinned, they fled the presence of God and hid themselves among the trees of the garden (Gen. 3:8). What the sixth seal reveals at the end is what H. B. Swete observed: What sinners dread most is not death, but the revealed Presence of God.[3] The same Jesus who was slain to save sinners will come in wrath against those who reject His mercy. The Lamb who opens the seals is the Lamb from whom the kings of the earth beg to be hidden. For this reason, Revelation begins with these words: Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him (Rev. 1:7). The Day of the Lord will be Conclusive (v. 17) Christians have discussed the second coming of Christ ever since the apostles heard it from Jesus own lips. The apostles and the first-century church expected the Day of the Lord to be imminent. Every generation of believers lived with the expectation of the imminent return of Jesus. Yet even in Peters day, some mocked the promise of His coming, assuming that because judgment had not yet come, it never would. But Peter reminds us that God has judged the world before, and by that same word, the present heavens and earth are being kept for the day of judgment: But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. (2 Pet. 3:810) Here is what we know: Jesus is coming back. He is coming suddenly. He is coming in a way that will surprise the world. And my fear is that when He comes, He will surprise many who call themselves Christian. The sixth seal ends with a very important question, perhaps the most important question you can ask yourself: Who can stand? When Jesus comes and the Day of the Lord becomes the experience and reality of our world. When the prophetic word that the Day is coming becomes a part of human history, there will be no escaping it. The answer to Who can stand? is simple: No one will be able to stand. Not kings. Not generals. Not the rich. Not the powerful. Not the slave. Not the free. Not the religious. Not the moral. Not the successful. Not the suffering. Not the person who had everything in this life, and not the person who had nothing. The question is not whether Jesus is coming. He is. The question is not whether the Day of the Lord will come. It will. The question before each of us this morning is this: When that day comes, will you be able to stand? When Jesus comes, will He recognize you as belonging to Him? What will you hear from His lips on that Day? Jesus spoke of a time that is coming: Not everyone who says to me, Lord, Lord, will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name? And then will I declare to them, I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness. (Matt. 7:21-23) Revelation 7 answers the question, Who can stand? Only those sealed by God will be able to stand. Only those washed in the blood of the Lamb will be able to stand. But today is the day of salvation! Today there is no need to hide. The gospel of Jesus Christ calls us to something far better: Do not hide from the Lamb. Run to the Lamb for salvation. The only safe place from the wrath of the Lamb is in the mercy of the Lamb. So, the question is not whether Jesus is coming. He is. The question is not whether the Day of the Lord will come. It will. The question is this: when that day comes, will you be able to stand? [1] Richard D. Phillips,Revelation, ed. Richard D. Phillips, Philip Graham Ryken, and Daniel M. Doriani, Reformed Expository Commentary (Phillipsburg, NJ: PR Publishing, 2017), 230233. [2] John Piper,Come, Lord Jesus: Meditations on the Second Coming of Christ(Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2023), 109. [3] Henry Barclay Swete,The Apocalypse of St. John: The Greek Text with Introduction, Notes and Indices, 3rd ed. (London: Macmillan, 1911; repr., Grand Rapids: Kregel, 1977), 9495.

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The three-time champ of the world and freshly crowned team roping titlist at The American is seeing life through a whole new set of eyes. He's hinted at it. Here's the whole story. Send us Fan MailSend your thoughts and feedback to nospinfeedback@gmail.com or text 817-668-2395

Fr. Francisco Nahoe, OFM Conv., has served the Church and the Franciscan Order in Catholic education, campus ministry, parochial ministry, and catechesis. He is a chaplain at Thomas Aquinas College in Santa Paula, California, and focuses his scholarly efforts on Renaissance rhetoric and Polynesian ethnohistory. In Today's Show: How do we resolve the issue of death preceding the existence of humanity? What is the meaning of the "implanted word" in the Epistle of James? In the parable of the ten gold coins, does usury come into play with collecting interest? Was the first time the Holy Spirit came down to Earth Pentecost? What's the best refutation for "Jesus did not know the hour, therefore he is not God"? Should someone impatient avoid evangelizing others? How can the Church make cafeteria and cultural Catholics more zealous? How can someone become devoted to a particular saint?  Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

The three-time champ of the world and freshly crowned team roping titlist at The American is seeing life through a whole new set of eyes. He's hinted at it. Here's the whole story.Send us Fan MailSend your thoughts and feedback to nospinfeedback@gmail.com or text 817-668-2395

The Bridegroom is coming—but will the church be ready, or asleep at midnight? I want to uncover the true biblical timeline of the Second Coming, the meaning of the last trump, and why the parable of the ten virgins is more urgent today than ever. Don't miss this eye-opening message that could change how you understand prophecy—and determine whether you're prepared when He returns. 👉 Subscribe for daily updates on world events and prophecy👉 Learn more at https://watch.osn.tv/browse ⭐️: True Gold Republic: Get The Endtime Show special on precious metals at https://www.endtimegold.com 📱: It's never been easier to understand. Stream Only Source Network and access exclusive content: https://watch.osn.tv/browse 📚: Check out Jerusalem Prophecy College Online for less than $60 per course: https://jerusalemprophecycollege.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices