Anticipating Christ's Return: 7 Signs to Watch For

he return of Jesus Christ is a central belief in Christianity. Throughout the New Testament, there are references to Christ's second coming, promising hope and anticipation for believers. While the exact timing of His return remains a mystery, the Bible provides us with signs and indicators to watch for. In today’s post, we will explore seven signs of Christ's return, offering insights and encouragement for Christians to stay vigilant and prepared.

**Disclaimer: This is not the final account on eschatology here. I am just pointing out 7 scriptural signs of Christ's return for the average Christian. If you are interested in learning more about the rapture and want to learn how to be rapture ready, click here. 

Sign 1 -  Increasing Lawlessness

One of the signs Jesus mentioned in Matthew 24:12 is the increase in lawlessness. He said, "And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold." In a world where moral values and ethical standards are often disregarded, Christians are called to remain steadfast in their faith and love for one another.

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Sign 2 - Wars and Rumors of Wars

In Matthew 24:6, Jesus foretells, "You will hear of wars and rumors of wars." While conflicts and wars have occurred throughout history, the frequency and intensity of such events serve as a reminder of the fallen nature of the world. Christians are encouraged to be peacemakers and to pray for peace while recognizing that ultimate peace will come with Christ's return.

Sign 3 - Natural Disasters

Another sign mentioned by Jesus in Matthew 24:7 is "famines and earthquakes in various places." Natural disasters have the power to disrupt lives and communities. While they are not indicators of a specific timeframe for Christ's return, they remind us of the transient nature of this world and the need to place our hope in Him.

Sign 4 - Persecution of Believers

In Matthew 24:9, Jesus warns, "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." The persecution of Christians has been a recurring theme throughout history, and it continues today in various parts of the world. Believers are called to stand firm in their faith, knowing that they are blessed when persecuted for righteousness' sake (Matthew 5:10-12).

Sign 5 - The Spread of the Gospel

In Matthew 24:14, Jesus declares, "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." Despite the challenges and opposition, the mission of spreading the gospel remains paramount for Christians. This sign reminds us of our responsibility to share the message of salvation with all nations.

Sign 6 - False Prophets and Deception

In Matthew 24:11, Jesus warns about false prophets, saying, "And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray." Deception and false teachings have been present throughout history. Christians are urged to discern the truth by grounding themselves in the Word of God and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Sign 7 - The Abomination of Desolation

In Matthew 24:15, Jesus refers to the "abomination of desolation" spoken of by the prophet Daniel. This sign is associated with a future event that will occur in the temple. While the specifics are not provided, it serves as a reminder that there will be significant, unprecedented events leading up to Christ's return. Christians are encouraged to remain vigilant and spiritually prepared.

Watch and Be Ready

While these signs serve as indicators of the approaching return of Christ, they should not lead to fear or anxiety. Instead, they should motivate us to live with faith, hope, and love. In Matthew 24:42, Jesus instructs us to "watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming."

As we watch for these signs, let us also watch over our own hearts and actions. Let us be faithful stewards of the gospel, loving one another, and seeking to be the salt and light in a world that desperately needs the hope and salvation found in Christ. Whether Christ's return is near or distant on the horizon, our calling as Christians remains the same: to live lives that honor and glorify Him until He comes again.