By: Larry Young
The events of this week in US government have been incredible to say the least. We now have a president beginning his second term in office with an agenda for immediate dramatic change and numerous reversals that I could never have imagined. Even if only a fraction of that intended change is ultimately successful, it represents a longing by the majority in our country to return to an earlier time of common sense and national greatness. At the same time, we as Seventh-day Adventist Christians are also viewing this activity through the lens of end times prophecies and our commission to spread the gospel to a dying world before the door of probation closes when Jesus stands up.
The ”dooms day clock” for 2024 is set at 90 seconds to midnight, whereas “midnight represents some sort of nuclear exchange or catastrophic climate change that wipes out humanity”. However, Jesus’ own words refutes such an interpretation of events: “For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.” (Matthew 24:22) This is truly great news for believers, but it also is a somber warning for everyone.
So how do all these fast-changing current events square with prophetic next steps? My understanding in general is that there will be a false religious/spiritual revival in this country, driven by chaotic and fearful events. Just recall the twin towers attack on September 11 th , 2001. Following that event, the churches in America experienced a huge influx in attendance, but it was a short-lived revival because it was founded on fear, not on love for God. Is it possible that the sweeping changes introduced this week will ultimately become a catalyst for another fear-driven religious revival that results in a national Sunday Law?... or is it possible that God in His mercy has been rolling back the theoretical “dooms day clock” from midnight just a little?
Keep in mind that Bible prophecies are not given so much as to clearly predict future events… as they are to confirm future events when we see the Bible prophecies fulfilled. Therefore, as prophecies are indeed fulfilled, we can know that God has already seen them and made provision for us to be victorious as we live through them. The devil has also read and remembers all the Bible prophecies, but even he is caught off guard when and how prophecies are actually fulfilled. These are incredible times just to be alive and to know that God is truly in control, regardless of all the changes happening to us or around us. God bless America!