The “Last Days”?? Can Someone Explain This Concept, and Make it Simple to Understand? PART ONE

I’ve noticed that many people weren’t very interested in learning about the “Last Days” or the “End Times.” It seemed too complicated, and since people have talked about it for so long, they felt it wasn’t worth worrying about—especially if it might not happen in their lifetime.

But recently, things have changed. Many of these same people are starting to see events in politics and in their own lives that feel like a struggle between good and evil. It’s becoming clear to them that the idea of living in the Last Days might actually be happening. Because of this, they’re starting to think it might be time to learn more about the End Times.

When people look online for information about this topic, they often find lots of overwhelming, confusing details. Wouldn’t it be nice if someone could just explain the basics in a clear way? That’s what I hope to do here, sharing information from a Christian perspective, using the King James Version of the Bible, which you can look up if you’d like. Let’s dive in!

Human history started with Adam and Eve, around 4,000 BC. Jesus Christ lived on earth around 0 AD, and while He was here, He promised He would return (John 14:3). Now, here we are in the year 2024.

From Adam and Eve’s time until now, about 6,000 years have passed. But why is this number important? How does it connect to the end of the world?

Jesus is expected to return to earth 6,000 years after humanity’s creation. Wait, what?? That means 6,000 years have already passed since Adam and Eve, which suggests that Jesus could return at any moment. Are you fully focused now?

Even if math isn’t your strong suit, this idea alone might get your heart racing and make you curious to learn more. Jesus is coming back soon in what’s known as the “Second Coming of Christ” or the “Last Days.”

Key Point: Jesus will return to earth, 6,000 years after the creation of mankind.

Now that you understand the timeline, and are sitting upon the edge of your chair, I’d like to teach you about specific things that are expected to happen in these last days. Again, let’s keep it simple.

Now that we understand we’re in the “end times,” what’s supposed to happen next, according to the Bible? The next big event is a period called the “Tribulation” (Matthew 24:21-33).

Tribulation? That does sound a bit scary. But here’s something I’ve learned: the more we understand something, the less frightening it seems. So, let’s take a closer look at what the Tribulation is all about.

The Tribulation period will last for seven years. During this time, many events predicted in the Bible will take place. It’s like we’ve been given the “answer key” to what’s coming—God has already told us what to expect. Amazing, right?

This seven-year Tribulation acts as a timeline, helping us see where we are in the end times. Once it begins, we’ll know that Jesus will return in exactly seven years. While we don’t know the exact date or time, this gives us a good idea of when it will happen.

With this information, you might already feel a step ahead of those who are waiting for Jesus to return, “any day now.” Does this bring you some comfort? Let’s keep going—I have so much more to share!

Key Point: Jesus will return to the earth SEVEN years after the Tribulation period begins.

Has this time seven-year period started yet? Do we know? And how will we know when it does start?

No, the Tribulation hasn’t started yet, but we are VERY close. God has shown us how we can recognize when this seven-year countdown begins. Let’s look at Daniel 9:27, which tells us what to watch for to mark the start of the Tribulation.

“And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.”

In this scripture:

“He” is the antichrist, (more on him later).

“Confirm the covenant” is a peace treaty that will be signed for the peace for Israel.

“One week” is 7 days in the biblical sense, or 7 years referring to our time frame.

(I am keeping things simple; however, you can do a deep dive into these three key interpretations if you’d like to understand them more fully.)

Key Point: A peace treaty will be signed, bringing peace to Israel for the period of 7 years. One of the signers of this peace treaty will be the antichrist. This will start the clock ticking regarding the tribulation period, of final 7 years.

Israel is currently at war, continuing a conflict that has been going on for centuries. I encourage you to keep an eye on what happens with Israel. Soon, we’ll likely see leaders come together to sign a peace treaty between Israel and some neighboring countries.

This peace treaty will allow a temple to be built on what many consider the most sacred spot on earth—the Temple Mount. (See Daniel 9, Ezekiel 40–48, Matthew 24:15, and Mark 13:14.)

Currently, the temple mound consists of two very holy places:

“The Dome of the Rock” Completed in 691 CE, the Dome of the Rock is one of the oldest extant examples of Islamic architecture. It is built over a rock that is traditionally believed to be the site where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during the Night Journey, as well as the location of the First and Second Jewish Temples.

“Western Temple Wall” which is a remnant of the Second Temple, which was destroyed in 70 CE by the Romans. The Western Wall is revered by Jews as the holiest place where they are allowed to pray.

Control of this site has been at the center of many conflicts between Muslims and Jews, making it impossible for a shared structure to be built there. But the Bible foretells that a temple will be built on this exact spot. How could this happen? It would take a “miracle” and a very powerful leader to make it possible. This leader, prophesied as the “antichrist,” plays a crucial role in the events to come.

Let’s take a step back and look at the “big picture” of what’s happening on earth right now. This will help us understand where each of these events and figures fit in.Top of Form

Bottom of Form

There’s always been a struggle between good and evil on earth, and you’ve probably felt it in your own life—the little voice tempting you to do something wrong and another voice urging you not to.

This struggle has now become a full-blown battle, and we’re all caught in the middle of it. Satan wants control over everyone on earth, while God is trying to protect us and guide us away from choosing the path of evil.

Key Point: There is a spiritual war happening right now between God and satan. The fight is over the souls who are on the earth. Satan wants all of us to worship him as he rules the earth in a role that he sees as king, and God is protecting us from making such a foolish mistake.

Satan is connected with the antichrist, and I believe that during the seven-year Tribulation, satan will possess the soul of a willing person so he can come to earth and carry out his destructive plans.

Is the picture starting to come together? While no one knows the exact time of Jesus’s return, we now have a timeline to watch for—and it all begins with the signing of a peace treaty involving Israel.

Let’s take a look at what’s happening in Israel right now. There’s war and destruction involving many groups: Gaza, Hezbollah, Iran, and others. Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. are involved diplomatically, but there is no peace in sight. However, the stage is being set for the antichrist to appear as a powerful leader who will sign a treaty and bring peace to the Middle East.

You and I should keep a close eye on the news from Israel. Very soon, the seven-year Tribulation will begin when the antichrist signs a treaty that promises peace.

Now, let’s get to know the antichrist, a key figure in the End Times. Those who are watching for him will be able to recognize him, but those who aren’t paying attention may be deceived and fall into the trap he sets to lead them astray.

Imagine what has just happened. A person has emerged on the world stage and done the impossible! With his incredible negotiating skills, he brings peace to Israel and allows the construction of a temple on the Temple Mount. He is seen as a HERO! But he’s not finished yet. He will be celebrated as a great world leader, even bringing peace to the entire world. He will perform “miracles” right before our eyes, seeming to have godly powers. His abilities will be so impressive that the Jewish people will believe he is the long-awaited Messiah.

Are you starting to see who the antichrist really is? If you’re paying attention, it will be easy for you to spot him. Understanding this will give you a head start, so you won’t be deceived by his cleverness.

Now, let’s look at what the scriptures say about the antichrist:

Deception and Falsehood: The Antichrist is often described as a deceiver who promotes lies and denies the truth of Jesus. In 1 John 2:22, it says, “Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son.”

Denial of Christ’s Divinity: The Antichrist is described as one who denies Jesus’ divine nature. 1 John 4:3 notes, “And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist.”

Works of Lawlessness: In 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, the Antichrist is called the “man of sin” and “son of perdition,” who opposes God and seeks to exalt himself above all that is worshipped, even claiming to be God.

Performing Signs and Wonders: 2 Thessalonians 2:9 mentions that the Antichrist’s coming will be “after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders.” These false signs are intended to mislead people.

Leading a Great Rebellion: In Revelation 13, the “beast” is often seen as representing the Antichrist. He is depicted as having great power and authority, leading people astray, blaspheming God, and waging war against the saints  (Revelation 13:5-7).

To many, the antichrist will seem like a hero sent to rescue humanity. He will be seen as an extraordinary leader, full of charisma and offering solutions to our world’s problems. He’ll capture the world’s attention, and at first, we might see him as the great leader we’ve all been waiting for.

Let’s zoom out for a moment to understand the bigger picture. God and satan are at war. This battle is about control over you and me. This war is coming to a head, and satan will do everything he can to win our souls. His goal is to have control over your soul after you die, to worship and serve him forever in his fiery home.

Satan knows he has very little time left before God ultimately defeats him. In his desperation, he will come to earth and possess a willing man, hoping to make him your leader. All of this will unfold right before your eyes. You’re living through one of the most significant events in history.

Here comes satan’s next move. Remember, he comes in peace and is very clever.

He will directly ask for your allegiance and support, demanding that you dedicate everything you have to him. This will be done through accepting his mark on your forehead or right hand, a mark associated with the number 666. This is known as the mark of the beast. The Bible doesn’t specify exactly when this will happen, but it will occur within the first 3.5 years of the Tribulation. You won’t be confused about what you’re doing—you will KNOW that you are choosing to follow him.

In exchange for your loyalty, satan will promise you power, wealth, and everything you desire—mansions in his kingdom, and more.

At first, the mark might seem optional, appealing to people who are easily swayed by his empty promises. But eventually, it will become mandatory for everyone on earth to take the mark. (Revelation 13:16-18)

This is satan’s ultimate goal—to gather followers and take them with him to hell to serve and worship him forever. Be aware, because he will be extremely clever in how he markets this offer to your soul.

Taking this mark isn’t just a casual decision. By accepting it, you are making an agreement to follow satan and give him your full allegiance, essentially selling your soul to him in exchange for his false promises.

The Bible says that without this mark, you won’t be able to participate in normal life—no job, no buying or selling, no loans, and more (Revelation 13:16-17).And, for those who refuse the mark, the scripture warns that they will be killed (Revelation 13:15).

Key Point: A charismatic leader will emerge bringing peace to Israel and the middle east. He will demand the loyalty and worship from all living people upon the earth through a covenant, offering his mark and false promises in exchange for your soul.

I know this is heavy, and it’s a lot to think about. The idea of such an event is overwhelming, but there’s more to the story, and it has everything to do with God’s plan as He steps into this battle.

We are all children of a loving Father in Heaven. He is compassionate, caring, and protective, and He knows exactly where you are right now. He understands your concerns, your fear, and your uncertainty about living through such a difficult time. That’s why He has shared His “game plan” with us for those who have chosen to follow Him.

Think back to the Israelites in the Bible, when Moses led them out of slavery. They were backed into a corner, just like you might feel now. After they left, Pharaoh changed his mind and sent his army to chase them down and destroy them. The Israelites found themselves trapped by the Red Sea, with no way out. They thought they were going to die, with the soldiers closing in.

This is similar to how you might feel, as if there’s no other option but to give in to the pressure of the antichrist’s demands. But as we know from that story, God performed a miracle. He parted the Red Sea, providing an escape that no one had imagined was possible. Our Father has promised to do the same for us. He will provide a miracle in our lives to protect us from destruction. How will He do that? Let’s look at His plan and the hope He offers.

Revelation 3:10

¹⁰ “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.”

In the Bible, the “Hour of Temptation” refers to the “Tribulation Period” we’ve been talking about. But here’s the amazing part: God has promised that He will KEEP US FROM this time of suffering. Do you fully grasp the significance of this promise? He is planning to rescue His children, either by protecting us through it or by removing us from it entirely. Let’s explore how He will do this.

You might have heard about an event called “The Rapture of the Church.” While there isn’t a lot of direct scripture that describes it in detail, through much study and prayer, I want to share with you what I believe it means and how it fits into God’s plan for His people.

Let’s look at the scriptures first.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

^13” But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

¹⁴ For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

¹⁵ For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

¹⁶ For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

¹⁷ Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

¹⁸ Wherefore comfort one another with these words.”

1 Corinthians 15: 50-53

^50”Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.

⁵¹ Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,

⁵² In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

⁵³ For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.”

WOW!! How’s that for a rescue? Jesus Christ will return with His angels for His Church—those who believe in and follow Him. With the sound of a trumpet, the dead in Christ will rise first. Then, those of us who are still alive and follow Him will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord forever. Our bodies will be changed, so we can exist in the air, but we won’t be fully resurrected yet.

The amazing part is that we will be taken up to be with Him and won’t have to endure what’s coming to the earth under Satan’s rule. We’ll be spared from that time of suffering!

Key Point: Those who follow, love, and support Jesus Christ will be Rescued by a loving Father in Heaven, and will not have to endure the evil reign from Satan in the Last Days.

Psalms 46:1-3

1“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

²Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

3Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.”

… To be Continued in Part 2.