[:en]SCRIPTURE: MARK 13
Bible Verses:
“ Jesus said to them: “Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and will deceive many. When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains.” (Mark 13:5-8)
“ Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved” (Mark 13:13)
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (Mark 13:31)
“ Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.” (Mark 13:33)
SIGNS OF THE END OF THE AGES (vs. 1-31)
- Geographical destruction will occur (vs 1-2)
- False prophets will deceive you (v. 5)
- Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom (v. 8a)
- Natural disasters, such as earthquake and famine will take place (v. 8b)
- God’s people will be persecuted (v. 9)
- Family members will betray and rebel against each other (v. 12)
Despite of all theses happening, Jesus teaches us to heed and trust His Word because His Word is dependable and durable.
THE DAY AND HOUR UNKNOWN (vs. 32-37)
During the tribulation, Jesus gives us the following admonition:
- Be on guard!, Be alert! You do not know when that time will come (v. 33)
- Keep watch! If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping (v. 35-36)
FOUR WARNINGS OF JESUS TO HIS PEOPLE:
- Do not be deceived by false Christ who would appear and lead them astray (vs. 1-8)
- Do not be afraid to preach the gospel (vs. 9-13)
- Do not be ignorant on what the Scriptures teach (vs. 14-23)
- Do not be complacent. Things that are happening should alert you that the time is near (vs. 28-37)
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