God’s Purposes God’s purposes are always accomplished. Once his plans are complete, Christ will return to reign as King. But much has to happen between now and then. What is it that has to happen?
Once God’s purpose is accomplished, and His plans complete, Christ will return to reign as King. But much has to happen between now and then. We don’t know all of God’s plans or his timing, but we know that both His plans and His timing are perfect.
God’s Purposes Before Christ Returns
Before Christ’s triumphant return, certain events must take place. First, the Church, the believers, and followers of Jesus Christ, who call upon Him as their personal Savior and Lord, will be raptured. That is, they will be removed from the earth and taken up to heaven. At some point after that, the Antichrist will be revealed, and shortly thereafter, the Tribulation period will begin. Again, we don’t know the timing, but we can be confident of the order of events.
To the Christian believer, they need not worry about the time after the Rapture, for they will be with Christ in Heaven. However, we do need to be aware of what is going on in the world around us, especially when the time may be growing short. It gives us a greater impetus to seek the lost and share the gospel message with them.
God’s Purposes: Are for Us to Live Lives Worth of Christ
We need to lead lives worthy of Christ and his sacrifice on our behalf. We need to carry out the mission given to us, spreading the Good News of Christ and Salvation. Finally, we need to be motivated by holy living, for we are God’s light in a dark, sinful world, as God’s word tells us to do.
1 John 2:28
28 And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming. (Jesus Bible)
Isaiah 46:10
Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things which have not been done, Saying, ‘My purpose will be established, And I will accomplish all My good pleasure;
Matthew 24:14
This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.
1 Thessalonians 4:8
8 Therefore, anyone who rejects this instruction does not reject a human being but God, the very God who gives you his Holy Spirit. (Jesus Bible)
1 Thessalonians 4:18
18 Therefore encourage one another with these words. (Jesus Bible)
What is in this text: re: God’s Purposes
What is contained in these notes, are my personal notes and reflections as I study God’s word, to learn more of what is to come. It is both a personal interest, plus a desire to share the word accurately, with clarity and passion.
I often refer to various commentators for clarity and understanding. Most of the Commentary sections are from Dr. John MacArthur’s NIV Bible Study Notes. However, at times, I will refer to other articles I have read, and if you use the electronic version of this document, there will be links to these articles.
I am not a Bible Scholar
I am not a scholar of the Bible, but rather a simple woman desiring to better understand the word of God. In all things I do and write, I desire to honor God and bring Him honor and praise.
Feel free to provide feedback to me at jana@janasmithauthor.ca. I look forward to hearing from you.
Inspiration and Understanding
In the meantime, it is my great hope that you will get inspiration and understanding from these notes. May God, our Father, bless you as you study his word. May his Holy Spirit guide you into all understanding and wisdom, as you serve him.
In the following text, we will examine some of the scripture verses related to God’s warnings regarding the coming of the End Times. This is not an exhaustive list, but I believe it will awaken understanding and encourage further study.
Blessings,
Jana
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