Did Jesus have anything special to say to us about war? We dread the violence, the slaughter of civilians and of combatants. We don't want even to watch it on our TV screens. Yes, Jesus spoke of this time. Worldwide, millions of "hearts" are "failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth." There is "distress of nations, with perplexity" (Luke 21:26, 25). Rampant fear!
But listen, as we look at Christ's Good News agenda for this world: (1) He says: "This gospel [Good News] of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come" (Matt. 24:14). Watch for it!
(2) This is explained further in Revelation 14, pinpointing this same "time of the end": "I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people." He is "followed" by two more angels also proclaiming the same "gospel" (vss. 6-12).
(3) Before the "end" can "come," the fairness and mercy of God must send a fourth angel "having great power, and the earth was lightened with his glory." He "cries mightily with a strong voice" (18:1-4). Yes, look long and earnestly at this inspired picture of coming happier events. That "everlasting gospel" is the full-blown truth of justification by faith.
(4) But God must have cooperation from His people. Just proclaiming a "wimpish" counterfeit gospel gives Satan opportunity to wreak havoc again like in World Wars I and II--both, horrors unnecessary but for "our" unbelief. Only if we proclaim a mature "everlasting gospel" which "seals" those who believe (a first in human history!) can God's "four angels" succeed in holding back the "four winds" of war that otherwise must "blow" (see Rev. 7:1-3).
Something serious is brewing; may the Holy Spirit help us stay awake.
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