Mark 13

The theme of chapter 13 is definitely to be on guard and to be ready. Apparently, Jesus knew we would get distracted.

It is hard to tell which prophecies are about the fall of Jerusalem that happened in 70 AD and what is dealing specifically with the end of time. I guess, to tell you the truth, I don't get real fired up about whether Christians will be raptured or if the world will end all at once or if it is tomorrow or 1,000 years from now. I really sense that God is more concerned with my obedience right now than me figuring out things He said I wouldn't figure out. I think we should have a good sense of what we believe about the end of the world, but if we aren't being faithful to the degree we should be does it really matter what our end times view is?

13:9 - ... On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. - I thought this was such a cool verse that I have missed in the past. The persecution and suffering that Christians will undergo towards the end of time will be their ticket to witness to those in positions of authority. It isn't suffering for no reason, but the doorway to sharing Christ with those who would seem otherwise beyond reach. Maybe the suffering in your life right now is God enabling you to share Christ with someone else - a doctor, judge, teacher, boss, etc.

13:13 - Everyone will hate you because of me, but those who stand firm to the end will be saved. - Faithfulness is required for salvation. We must endure in our faith. It isn't enough to have believed once. We must be in belief now and each day.

13:36 - If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. - Being real honest, are you ready for Christ's return right now or would you get a sinking feeling in your gut if you knew He was at the door?

Love, Michael