Knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” (2 Peter 3:3-4 NKJV).
I am surprised in looking at the world situation as it is today, so little notice is being taken of the events occurring around us day by day in the light of Scripture’s revelation in prophecy.
The continued conflict in the Middle East and the situation developing is indicative of the violence increasing there, and the diminishing peace possibilities [Psalm 83]. In Syria the civil war continues with notable gains by the Assed ruling power, and it looks as though the present leaders could retain power, and supported by Iran it will be a severe threat to the nation of Israel and possibly the world. Even if the rebels win, a similar situation could arise as in Egypt, where the Muslim Brotherhood could take power, and in spite of opposition will eventually overcome and rule. Bearing in mind that Hamas, Hezbollah and Al Qaeda are all offshoots of the Muslim Brotherhood. Russia [Magog] has now said it will arm its troops stationed in Iran, with those destined to help the regime in Syria appearing to be involved already [Ezek 38].
Persecution of Christians continues with surprisingly, suppression increasing in the United States. William J. Murray chairman of the Religious Freedom Coalition writes: “Fifty years after the removal of prayer from America’s public schools in a case brought by my mother, Madelyn Murray O’Hare, there is virtually no safe place in America for children of any age, not in their schools, not even in their homes,” said William J. Murray, chairman of the Religious Freedom Coalition…America today is a society in which one in every 10 adult men is either in prison, on parole or under some sort of judicial oversight. Children don’t walk to school because it is not safe”. This situation occurs 50 years after the removal of prayer from schools, the armed forces and university campuses. We in New Zealand should be wary of those who would try and restrict or stop Bible in schools, or Christian Unions in University’s. The persecution of both Jews and Christians in Middle Eastern and African countries has increased to serious proportions with many killed, churches burnt down and women and girls raped. I am sure Mohammed did not expect his followers to commit such crimes. “For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way. [2 Thessalonians 2:7 NKJV]. The evil one is indeed at work and is increasing his activities. Soon the Christian Church will be removed in the Rapture and the persecution of the world’s remaining population will be horrendous, if they do not bow down and worship the Beast or Antichrist as a god. Satan will be cast out of Heaven and is let loose on earth. “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, and prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceives the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. (Revelation 12:7-9 KJV)” The earthly imperfect trinity equivalent of; Satan, The Beast and the False Prophet will become a reality. [666]?
The earthquakes and natural disasters are increasing: “Then He [Jesus] said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.”And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven. (Luke 21:10-11 NKJV)… “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; (Luke 21:25 NKJV)”. This year alone there seems to be disaster after disaster; tornados, tidal waves, floods and earthquakes all over the world. Scientists are blaming it on Global warming, however where it will all lead none of them appear to know. The Bible tells us indeed where it is heading if we only are prepared to study the Scriptures and see what God is trying to tell us.
Many new diseases and pestilences are appearing which are baffling the medical profession, who find their traditional cures are not working. Various forms of Penicillin which hitherto have been used to combat infection for over 70 years are now being defeated by new infections and illnesses not previously known. Human disease and crop pestilences and in the animal world new sicknesses, such as bird flue which has even been known to pass to people working with birds, will become even more prevalent. [Matt 24:7 & 8].
The second epistle of Peter goes on to say the only reason the world has not been destroyed as it was in the days of Noah, is God’s love, mercy and grace. God will eventually judge mankind and destroy the earth as we know it, but meanwhile He has made a way of salvation through the redemption and forgiveness of mankind’s sin, through His son’s sacrifice on the cross of Calvary. Jesus died and rose again to conquer sin and death. If we accept Jesus as our Saviour and Lord and ask for His forgiveness we will be saved from the destruction to come. God is patiently waiting for those who would be saved to seek Him and His forgiveness. He is not slack, but patient loving and kind. [2 Peter 3:5-15]. What about you, are you saved?
Brian D. Papworth
Representative for P.W.M.I in the South Pacific.