Signs of the end of age - Faailoga o le i’uga o aso

Scripture Focus: Luka 21:5-38

As some were talking about the temple and how it was decorated with beautiful stones and gifts, he said, “As for these things which you see, the days will come, in which there will not be left here one stone on another that will not be thrown down.” They asked him, “Teacher, so when will these things be? What is the sign that these things are about to happen?” He said, “Watch out that you don’t get led astray, for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is at hand.’ Therefore don’t follow them. When you hear of wars and disturbances, don’t be terrified, for these things must happen first, but the end won’t come immediately.” Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines, and plagues in various places. There will be terrors and great signs from heaven. But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, delivering you up to synagogues and prisons, bringing you before kings and governors for my name’s sake. It will turn out as a testimony for you. Settle it therefore in your hearts not to meditate beforehand how to answer, for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to withstand or to contradict. You will be handed over even by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends. They will cause some of you to be put to death. You will be hated by all men for my name’s sake. And not a hair of your head will perish. “By your endurance you will win your lives. “But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is at hand. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let those who are in the midst of her depart. Let those who are in the country not enter therein. For these are days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. Woe to those who are pregnant and to those who nurse infants in those days! For there will be great distress in the land, and wrath to this people. They will fall by the edge of the sword, and will be led captive into all the nations. Jerusalem will be trampled down by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. There will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars; and on the earth anxiety of nations, in perplexity for the roaring of the sea and the waves; men fainting for fear, and for expectation of the things which are coming on the world: for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. But when these things begin to happen, look up, and lift up your heads, because your redemption is near.” He told them a parable. “See the fig tree, and all the trees. When they are already budding, you see it and know by your own selves that the summer is already near. Even so you also, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near. Most certainly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things are accomplished. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will by no means pass away. “So be careful, or your hearts will be loaded down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day will come on you suddenly. For it will come like a snare on all those who dwell on the surface of all the earth. Therefore be watchful all the time, praying that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will happen, and to stand before the Son of Man.” Every day Jesus was teaching in the temple, and every night he would go out and spend the night on the mountain that is called Olivet. All the people came early in the morning to him in the temple to hear him.
- Luke 21:5-38 (WEB)

Study:

In this passage, Jesus reveals the signs that will signal the end of the age. He warns of the destruction of the temple, false messiahs, wars, natural disasters, and persecution of believers. Jesus encourages his followers to remain vigilant and faithful, emphasizing that despite the chaos, God's plan will unfold perfectly. He also assures believers that their endurance in trials will preserve their lives. The imagery of the budding fig tree reminds us that when these signs occur, God's Kingdom is near, underscoring the certainty of His promises.

Application:

Today, this passage calls us to remain spiritually alert and steadfast in faith amidst uncertainties and trials. We are reminded not to be deceived by false teachers or overwhelmed by world events. Instead, we should place our trust in Jesus, who promises redemption and ultimate victory. By cultivating endurance and prayerfulness, we can face challenges confidently knowing that our salvation is secure and that God’s kingdom is drawing near.

Reflection Questions:

• How can I stay watchful and avoid being led astray by false teachings?
• In what ways am I cultivating endurance in my spiritual walk?
• How does the promise of redemption encourage me during difficult times?
• What practical steps can I take to remain prayerful and focused on God amidst worldly distractions?
• How does recognizing the signs of the times affect my daily life and faith?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, help me to remain alert and faithful as I await Your coming. Strengthen my endurance in trials, guard me against deception, and fill my heart with peace and hope. May I always trust in Your promises and live each day prepared, knowing that my redemption draws near. Amen.

Tags: end times, signs of the end, Luke 21, biblical prophecy, Christian endurance, faith in trials, Jesus teachings, false messiahs, biblical signs, spiritual watchfulness