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Protestant Last Days
Protestant Last Days Question: Do you believe we’re in the ‘last days’? Rev. RICK REED is senior pastor at the Metropolitan Bible Church in Ottawa. Most definitely. In fact, we have been in the last days for the last 2,000 years. In biblical terminology, the phrase “last days” refers to the final segment in human history. This time period began with the birth of Christ. As Hebrews 1:2 says, “ ... in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom He made the universe.” The last days will climax in the return of Jesus to reign over a kingdom that will never end (Matthew 25:31).
But I’m guessing your question is really about whether we are in the last of the last days. My answer to that question is quite possibly. I say possibly because Jesus made it clear that no one knows the exact timetable for His return (Matthew 24:36). However, Jesus did give some clues as to what would be going on in our world at the finale of history.
He said international tensions (“wars and rumours of war”) and natural disasters (“famines and earthquakes”) would come on the world like labour pains (Matthew 24:5-7). He said His followers would be targets for deadly persecution (Matthew 24:9). Wickedness would increase and spiritual vitality would diminish (Matthew 24:10-12). He also said the good news that salvation is given to all who believe in Him would be proclaimed globally. Then, He said, “the end will come” (Matthew 24:14). But regardless of how much time is left, one thing is certain — our days are numbered. Either we’ll live to see the climax of history or we’ll experience death before it comes. Because of this, Jesus calls us all to “be ready” (Matthew 24:44). And He says the way we get ready is through putting our faith in Him and choosing to live by His words.
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