Read Matthew 24

“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” (Matthew 24:44)

This chapter in Matthew is known as “The Olivet Discourse of Christ,” for it was on the Mount of Olives that Jesus taught it to His disciples (see Matthew 24:3). The Olivet Discourse stands as one of the most significant sections of Scripture on things pertaining to the last days.

Whereas, Jesus taught mostly in parables concerning the Kingdom of God, His Olivet Discourse is not parabolic or allegorical, but prophetic and literal about the coming Wrath of God. In it He reveals to His disciples what will take place in the final years of human history — a time known as The Tribulation.

The Scriptures, such as the Book of Daniel and the Book of Revelation, teach us that this is a seven year period with a twofold purpose: to punish the godless under the explicit Wrath of God (see Revelation 3:10) and to bring the nation of Israel to saving faith in Christ (see Romans 11:25-26; Jeremiah 30:7). There will be such devastation and disaster upon the earth during these years, such unprecedented persecution for the saints, that Christ says —

“…such has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be.” (Matthew 24:21)

It is my firm belief and confidence that the Church, namely those who have placed their faith in Christ blood and are saved by His grace will be spared from this time of tribulation because of the Rapture (see Revelation 3:10; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).

The events of the tribulation culminate with the Second Coming of Christ (not to be confused with the Rapture), when Christ will return on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory (see Matthew 24:30). At His Second Coming, Christ will return to rule and reign over the earth and fulfill His promises to the nation of Israel.

Therefore, what should our response be knowing these things ahead of time? Our Lord Jesus tells us in verse 44: “Be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect." While Christ's words here refer specifically to His Second Coming, not the Rapture, the application of it remains the same. In both instances, the event of His return is imminent. Hear that! — Christ is coming back, Church, and His return could happen at any moment!

Are you ready, Beloved? May I be so bold to ask you whether you would be ashamed or confident at His coming this very hour? Have you prepared your heart to meet your Savior face to face? Your salvation is sure, but is your life impure? Whatever the case, make haste to be found in Christ! Abide in Him! — that just as a bride makes herself ready for the groom, so you will be found ready for Your gracious Groomsman.

“And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.” (1 John 2:28)

“And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!”” (Revelation 22:17)