Thursdays: John 1, 2, 3 and Jude

In our winter semester, we are going to unpack a theologically dense section of Scripture that is rarely heard from the Pulpit. It is unique because of its exhortation to be strong in the Lord. As has been our custom in our group, we will also explore application heavily. There is so much to absorb in these little books (comparatively speaking).

Because we see the nearness of the hour, we will continue our emphasis on the End Times through weekly highlights of what's happening in the world. For continuity, our journey has been studying End Times related topics, including "The Non-Profit's Guide to the End Times", "The Non-Prophet's Guide to Spiritual Warfare", "Future Glory", “Count it all Joy”, “Israel and the Church” by Amir Tsarfati, the Book of Daniel, The End Times in the Epistles, the Book of Hebrews, and most recently the Book of Romans!!

In our group, we emphasize the role of a Watchman.  We seek to understand eschatology - the doctrine of the End Times according to the Bible.  We also interpret the signs the Bible says to look out for and to hold high regard for the authority of Scripture...as a "good Berean".  We want to be faithful in our journey to maturity in Christ, and so we encourage and support each other.

One of my favorite Scriptures is Isaiah 46:9-10.  This is where God puts His stamp of authority over us, our world, and our universe!  It says: "Remember the former things long past, "For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like Me, 10 Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things which have not been done, Saying, ‘My plan will be established, And I will accomplish all My good pleasure"  God wants us to know the future!

The purpose of Bible Prophecy is not to scare us, but to prepare us!  Throughout Scripture, some of the most prominent future prophecies have to do with the nation of Israel.  We see significant turmoil in Israel today and we are well into the "...not one generation will pass before..." statement by Jesus in the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24.  What does that mean today?  When we look at Ezekiel 38, 39, do we see these same nations organizing to come against Israel and oppose the Lord?

Bible prophecy is leaping off the pages today!  If you are interested in becoming more fluent in the End Times and Scripture, please reach out!