As Christians, we believe that we are living in the last days, and many of us are wondering if we are nearing the end of probation. While no one can predict the exact time of Christ’s return, the Bible does give us signs to look out for. In this blog, we will examine some of the signs of the close of probation and what they mean for us as believers.
Increase in Natural Disasters
The Bible tells us that there will be an increase in natural disasters. Jesus, Himself said in Matthew 24:7-8, “For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.” We have seen an increase in natural disasters in recent years, and this is a sign that we are getting closer to the end.
Increase in Lawlessness
Another sign of the close of probation is an increase in lawlessness. In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Paul writes, “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.” We can see this happening all around us, and it is a clear sign that we are nearing the end.
Increase in Religious Deception
Jesus warned us in Matthew 24:24, “For false Christs and false prophets will arise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” We are seeing an increase in false teachings and false prophets in our world today, and this is a sign of the close of probation. We must be vigilant in our study of the Word of God and not be swayed by false teachings.
Increase in Wars and Rumors of Wars
Jesus said in Matthew 24:6, “And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” We have seen an increase in wars and conflicts around the world, and this is another sign that we are nearing the end of probation.
Increase in Immorality
In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Paul also warned us of an increase in immorality in the last days. We can see this happening all around us with the promotion of sexual immorality, pornography, and other sinful practices. This is a clear sign that we are nearing the end of probation.
Implementation of Sunday law
The next sign of the end of times is the implementation of the Sunday law. The Sunday law is when the government enforces Sunday as the day of worship instead of the Sabbath. Ellen G. White says that the Sunday law will be the final test for God’s people, and those who remain faithful to God and keep the Sabbath will receive the seal of God. She also warns that those who compromise and give in to the Sunday law will receive the mark of the beast.
The outpouring of the Latter Rain
The fourth sign of the end of times is the outpouring of the latter rain. The latter rain is a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit that will empower God’s people to finish the work of spreading the gospel to the world. Ellen G. White says that the latter rain will be poured out just before the close of probation, and it will be the final preparation for God’s people to be ready for Jesus’ second coming.
As we see these signs of the end of times being fulfilled, it is important that we prepare ourselves for the end. We must cultivate a close relationship with Jesus, study His word, and be filled with the Holy Spirit. We must also be active in sharing the gospel with others so that they too can be ready for the end.
While these signs can be alarming, we do not need to fear. As Christians, we know that our hope is in Christ and that He is coming back soon. However, we must also be prepared for His coming.
Preparing for the close of probation involves a combination of spiritual and practical steps. Here are some practical steps we can take:
- Study the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy: Studying the Bible and the writings of Ellen G. White is essential for our spiritual growth and development. It is through these inspired writings that we learn about the character of God, His will for our lives, and the signs of the end times.
- Daily Prayer and Devotions: Maintaining a consistent and meaningful prayer life is crucial for building a close relationship with God. We should also set aside time each day to read the Bible and other devotional materials, such as the book “Steps to Christ” by Ellen G. White.
- Attend Church Regularly: Regular attendance at church services provides opportunities for fellowship with other believers, learning from pastors and teachers, and receiving spiritual support and encouragement.
- Obey God’s Commandments: As we seek to live in harmony with God’s will, we should strive to obey His commandments, which are a reflection of His character. This includes keeping the Sabbath holy, honoring our parents, avoiding sin, and loving our neighbors as ourselves.
- Share the Gospel: As followers of Christ, we are called to be ambassadors of His message of love and salvation. We should look for opportunities to share the gospel with others, both through our words and actions.
- Live a Healthy Lifestyle: Taking care of our physical health is also an important aspect of preparing for the close of probation. This includes eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, getting enough rest, and avoiding harmful habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Be Prepared for Emergencies: It is wise to be prepared for emergencies, both natural and man-made, by having a supply of food, water, and other essentials on hand. This can help us and our families to face difficult times with greater ease.
By taking these practical steps, we can prepare ourselves for the close of probation, whenever it may come. It is important to remember that no one knows the exact time of Christ’s return, but by staying connected to Him and living in harmony with His will, we can have peace and confidence in the face of uncertainty.
In conclusion, these signs are clear indicators that we are nearing the end of time. As we see these signs being fulfilled, we must take practical steps to prepare ourselves for the end. We must cultivate a close relationship with Jesus, study His word, be filled with the Holy Spirit, and share the gospel with others. Let us be faithful and ready so that when Jesus comes again, we will be among the redeemed.