In this episode, Pastor Ted Wilson talks about the end of time and if we are really living in the last days of earth's history.
A well-known and respected research organization, the Pew Research Center, once conducted a survey asking people if they believe in the "end times." Based on the results, two of five Americans affirmed their belief. Also, 55% of U.S. adults, even those claiming to be atheists, believe Jesus will someday return.
This belief in the second coming of Christ is one of our core beliefs as Seventh-day Adventists. We believe in His imminent, visible return as much as we trust in His promise: "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also" (John 14:1-3, NKJV).
Christ's second coming is the ultimate hope of the ages—the hope that burns within our hearts and is the climax of history. While no one can predict its specific date, the Bible has given us signs pointing to the time just before Jesus' return. That time is now!
Realizing its nearness, the urgency of proclaiming the three angels' messages comes into focus. The cry must go out to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people: "Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him Who made heaven and earth, the sea, and springs of water" (Revelation 14:7, NKJV).
To proclaim those messages, we must receive, believe, and be revived by them. They shine through us as light to others as they become part of us. This is our commission from God, as given in Revelation 14.
As we look forward to another year, Ellen White gives us this inspired counsel: "With the commencement of this new year, you should dedicate yourselves to God. Now give yourself to Him, soul, body, and spirit, to do His will. Let all selfishness…all your faults, and besetting sins die with the old year. Begin this new year to the glory of God. Pray to Him, morning, noon, and night, to give you a meek and humble spirit, a mild temper, an affectionate disposition. Live as you have never lived before. Begin this new year with new feelings, fresh desires, and a strong determination to glorify God" (Youth's Instructor, January 1, 1856).
Are you willing to give yourself wholly to God? Are you willing to be used by Him in these last days of earth's history to share His final message of redemption, love, and judgment as proclaimed in the three angels' messages?