Mark 13:26-31 The Word that does not fade

26 "At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. 27 And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens. 28 "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. 29 Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door. 30 Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

(Michelangelo Last Judgement)

Thoughts: Many try to ignore the second coming of Christ as if it is unimportant.  But the mention of Christ's coming back is found in every book but two in the New Testament, and the prophesies are numerous of the messiah's coming in glory and power in the Old.  Jesus ends his words by talking about timing and what will last.  It is important to recognize that Jesus' prophecy of the fall of Jerusalem and destruction of the temple in 70 AD was within a generation (40 years) of his death.   But it also is important to remember that Jesus was also speaking of a long time away (heaven and earth passing away, but his words not fading away).  This is a reminder to us 2,000 years later that His words are still relevant.  How so?  Jesus stands at the end of history as the King of kings, and Lord of lords (great power and glory vs. 26).  He tells us to look for signs (28,29).  I believe many of the signs of the end are near.  For example, the ability to destroy the whole world, and the gospel being preached to every nation within our generation; and Israel being restored- tremendous signs (not just wars and rumors of wars and earthquakes).  The good news is that though the very foundations of earth are destroyed, God's Word is not destroyed.

Prayer: Help us, O God, to believe and rely on your Word.