Is the World About to End?

—Wally Grant

There’s been lots of bad news lately—a tsunami, hurricanes, bombings, wars and other scary events. Some say these disasters are signs the world is ending soon. This world will end one day. But other things must happen first. The Bible helps us understand God’s plan so we won’t be afraid. Jesus says that great trouble in the world is a sign the end of the age is near (Matt. 24). The end of the age is not the same as the end of the planet.

We live in a time when Jesus is here with us by His Holy Spirit. But at the end of this age Jesus will return in the clouds in person! When Jesus returns all Christians will celebrate! First those who’ve already died—then those of us still alive—will get new, perfect bodies (1 Thess. 4:16-17; 1 Cor. 15:52). We will be with Jesus in person from that moment on. Sometime later, after other Bible promises come true, Heaven and Earth will be destroyed with fire and God’s enemies will be punished (2 Pet. 3:7, 11; Rev. 20). But God will create a new Heaven and a new Earth (2 Pet. 3:13, Rev. 21). The new Earth will be a perfect planet for God’s people to explore and enjoy forever! Just think—Jesus could return today (Matt. 24:36)! So be ready. Trust Jesus. Tell others He’s coming back. And remember that a Christian’s future is safe with Jesus—even when this world ends!