Are we ready for the Heavenly Banquet? PREPARING FOR THE END: HOW SHOULD CHRISTIANS RESPOND THE SECOND COMING OF UNDERSTANDING BIBLICAL SIGNS OF CHRIST'S RETURN
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He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.
John 3:16
-Revelation 21:4
-Longjam Pradip Meitei,
-Rev. Daniel Paul
UNDERSTANDING BIBLICAL SIGNS OF CHRIST'S RETURN
-Rev. Joebele Mercene
LIFE IN BETWEEN
-Daya Raja
07 11 16 20
All Bible references are from the New International Version, English Standard Version, New Living Translation, King James Version. EGM Times is published by Elohim Gospel Ministries, USA & India. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. EGM Times has no subscription price and is supported through contributions worldwide. Because all EGM Times editions are preplanned, we are unable to accept unsolicited manuscripts. For more information or to sign up for your free copy of egm times, visit: elohimgospelministries.com | Image & content credits to www.gotquestions.org for Page 19.
President: Evg. Jacob Vilgi Oommen | Associate Editor: Gideon Pingkihan | Content Editor: Effie Ochago | Design: EGM Media
Longjam Pradip Meitei, a native of Manipur, a beautiful state in Northeast India, is a theological graduate. In addition to his secular job, he serves the Lord as the worship leader in his company church and as the events director of Elohim Gospel Ministries. Despite the various challenges in life, he happily lives with his God-fearing and wonderful wife, Rina, along with his four lovely children, Philbert, Praisy, Peter, and Preety, in India. His primary desire as a family is to serve the Lord.
MEET OUR WRITERS
Rev. Daniel Paul is the founder and senior pastor of the Rivers of Life Assembly of God Church in Sodepur, Kolkata, India. His life serves as a testimony to God's power to forgive, redeem, and transform. As a dedicated follower of Christ, Rev. Daniel has a vision to win souls at any cost. For over 15 years, he has been engaged in a remarkable ministry, reaching out to those who have not yet heard the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many lives have been transformed through the messages he shares every Sunday at the church. Rev. Daniel resides in Kolkata with his wife, Ps. Esther Paul and their two sons, Elisha and Jason.
Rev. Joebele Mercene is the Senior Pastor of Christ Grace Ministries Church of the Nazarene in Quezon Province, Philippines. He is a teacher, Bible school professor, and reserve soldier. His mission is to share God’s word and make disciples of Christ among his students. Pastor Joebele is married to Vanesa Grace, and they have two daughters, Sophia and Elisha. Together, they actively serve the Lord in various capacities.
Rev. Joebele Mercene
Rev. Daniel Paul
Longjam Pradip Meitei
Can you believe we’re already on the third quarter of 2024? It seems like just yesterday we were preparing for our Christmas celebrations, and now, in the blink of an eye, we're approaching the festive season once again, and may this approaching holiday season remind us that our Savior was born to fulfill the prophecy and atone for our sins. And yet, in this edition, we’ll be sharing with you about the “Second Coming of Christ.”
The promise of Jesus Christ’s return serves as a beacon of hope and a cornerstone of Christian faith. Since I was a child, I have already heard this phrase that we need to get ready because Jesus is coming. Over the years, I have clung to this promise, finding comfort and strength in the assurance that the Savior who once walked among us will come again.
The Bible is clear with reference to the second coming of Christ. In Matthew 24:30, Jesus himself spoke of His return saying, “They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory”. This is not just a phrase but a declaration of a future event that will surpass the limitations of our earthly experience.
But, as a modern Christians, how do we prepare for an event that is both imminent and unknown?
First and foremost, the coming of Jesus is a call to readiness. In Matthew 24:44, Jesus reminds His followers that they must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. This readiness is not about living in fear or anxiety but about cultivating a heart and life aligned with God’s will. It is about living each day as if it were the day of His return, embracing the call to love, serve, and proclaim the Gospel with urgency and passion.
We may not know when will be the second coming of Jesus Christ, but we are witnessing a rampant appearance of signs and wonders as what the Bible mentioned in Matthew 24. Moreover, the promise of His coming invites us to reflect on the nature of our relationship with God and with each other.
As we live in these end times, may we keep these reminders in our hearts. To continually love God by obeying His commands, to love one another by remembering God’s love and by not hating other believers, to not love the world by setting our eyes on things above, and to remain in God’s love by cultivating our relationship with Him.
Enjoy reading. God bless us all.
In His service,
Gideon L. Pingkihan Associate Editor EGM Times
The
second coming of Christ will be so revolutionary that it will change every aspect of life on this planet. Disease will be eliminated. Death will be abolished. War will be eradicated. Nature will be transformed.
- Evg. Billy Graham
Are we ready for the
Heavenly Banquet?
A-Longjam
Pradip Meitei
s I begin to concentrate on writing an Article on the Second Coming of Our Lord Jesus Christ, my mind goes to “The Heavenly Banquet”—the Grand Wedding Day. We live in a society where we often participate in the marriage ceremony. We all know how we engage in a wedding: as invitees, hosts, and bride or bridegroom families. Different families or individuals need to prepare themselves to attend the ceremony in profound ways. Each of them thinks about presenting themselves to be the most perfectionist.
I encourage you as Scripture says: In the Book of Revelation 19:7, Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.
The Second Coming of Our Lord Jesus Christ is very certain; all the prophecies regarding our Lord’s Virgin birth and ascension to Heaven have already been fulfilled, so why do we doubt His second return? When Jesus Christ returns to take His bride, Are we ready to present ourselves as a pure and perfect bride?
As we read in the scriptures (Old Testament), we understand that Israel was pictured as an unfaithful wife of God. Hosea 3:1 says, The Lord said to me, “Go, show your love to your wife again, though she is loved by another man and is an adulteress. Love her as the Lord loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods and love the sacred raisin cakes.”
Though they (children of God) disobeyed and followed worldly pleasures, the love of our Lord towards His people is unique. He is ready to forgive and accept them in every way whenever they surrender with a heart of repentance. It doesn’t mean that we all are free to practice all kinds of worldly pleasure and sinful acts knowingly and then come to the Lord. It’s true that our Lord is a loving God, but we should never forget He is also a very Jealous God.
“Are we ready to present ourselves as a pure and perfect bride?”
God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me.
How do we prepare ourselves for His Heavenly Banquet? In the New Testament (Matthew 25:1-13), Lord Jesus is teaching about ten virgins who are waiting for their bridegroom, five wise virgins who brought extra oil to keep on lightning their lamps to meet their groom whenever He comes, how they prepared themselves is very important to learn and follow in our day to day life, always reserved ourselves with Godly desire, plans & purposes until we meet Him.
As I quote Revelation 19:7 …and His wife has made herself ready. We, the believers, are going to present as the bride of our Lord Jesus.
As individuals, we have to prepare ourselves as spotless, perfect brides for the wedding.
If we are unprepared for the wedding, there are consequences, as Scripture says in Matthew 22:11 And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:
Matthew 22:12 And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.
Matthew 22:13 Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
A wedding is an event in which two people unite to become one, celebrated with joy and a grand feast attended by many. However, few choose to partake in the Heavenly banquet. It is our free will to decide whether to attend this grand event, but participating without proper preparation or readiness can lead to feelings of shame in life.
My main motive in writing this article is not to scare/tremble or warn you but to encourage you to be a perfect version of life through Christ, who is always getting ready to meet our Lord Jesus Christ in His Second Coming.
PREPARING
FOR THE END
-Rev. Daniel Paul
The concept of end-time revival is a topic of much debate and discussion among Christians. While some believe that a worldwide revival will occur before the end times, while others argue that the Bible doesn't necessarily support this idea. In the book of Acts, Peter quotes the prophet, Joel, saying that "in the last days, God will pour out His Spirit on all people, and they will prophesy, see visions, and dream dreams." (Acts 2:17). However, this prophecy was fulfilled 2,000 years ago when the Church began, and the Holy Spirit was poured out on the day of Pentecost.
Many Christians argue that we're already experiencing a great revival, especially during the Church Age. With Christians in every nation actively evangelizing and translating Scripture to reach every tribe and language, it could be viewed as the fulfillment of this prophecy. Jesus did say that the gospel would be preached to the whole world before the end comes, but He didn't indicate what the response would be, leaving room for interpretation.
• In the Millennium: A third scenario suggests that a worldwide revival will occur during Christ's 1,000-year reign, during which the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the Lord.
While these scenarios are possible, it's essential to remember that the Bible doesn't provide clear evidence of a worldwide revival before the end times. Instead, it warns of apostasy, deception, and increasing wickedness (2 Thessalonians 2:3, 2 Timothy 3:1-5).
Jesus also warned that love would grow cold in many due to increased lawlessness (Matthew 24:12).
End-Time Revival Scenarios: Different theological perspectives have emerged regarding when and how a significant revival might take place, each offering a distinct understanding of end-time events:
• During the Church Age: Some believe that we're in the midst of a great revival, with the Church growing exponentially since the day of Pentecost, reaching more people in more nations with the gospel than ever before. The global expansion of Christianity supports the view that revival is not something to wait for in the future but something ongoing since the birth of the Church.
• During the Tribulation: Others believe that a revival will occur among the Jews during the seven-year tribulation, led by 144,000 Jewish evangelists (Revelations 7:4-8).
So, what should Christians do?
Focus on living a life of holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God. Practice doing good to others, especially those in the household of faith. Stay vigilant, but avoid getting caught up in speculation or attempts to predict the exact timing of Christ's return.
Apostle Peter urges believers to "live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming" (2 Peter 3:11-12). This means prioritizing righteous living, practicing good deeds, and maintaining vigilance in spiritual matters. We should remain focused on faithfully serving God, sharing the gospel, and living in a way that reflects Christ's love and holiness until His return, knowing that the timing and nature of God's plans are ultimately in His hands.
“Focus on living a life of holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God.”
UNDERSTANDING
BIBLICAL SIGNS OF
CHRIST'S RETURN
-Rev. Joebele Mercene
1 John 4:1 "Dear friends, do not believe every spirit but test the spirits to see whether they are from God because many false prophets have gone out into the world."
One of the most recognized signs of the end times is increased wars, famines, and natural disasters. These events are often seen as indicators of a chaotic world, reflecting the spiritual unrest that precedes Christ's return.
Humanity has been fascinated by the idea of the end times in history. The Old and New Testaments widely discuss the "end of days," guiding how to distinguish the signs of the times. These signs tell believers to remain watchful, faithful and prepared for Christ's return.
Before challenging the signs of the end times, it's vital to highlight the dangerous role of spiritual choices. Jesus advised that confusion, false teachers, and confusing signs would arise.
The Bible equips believers to be watchful, discerning, and aligned with God's Word, empowering them to navigate the end times confidently.Matthew 24:4-5–Jesus answered: "Watch out that no one deceives you.For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah,' and will deceive many.
Matthew 24:6-7 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nations will rise against nations and kingdoms against kingdoms. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.
Luke 21:11 "There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, fearful events, and great signs from heaven."
These calamities serve as signs, representing not an immediate end but rather "birth pain" (Matthew 24:8), a metaphor for the gradual and increasing intensity of these events, signaling the approach of the finish. The rising incidence of such amounts should lead Christians to turn to God in faith rather than fear.
An additional representation of the end times is society's moral and spiritual failure. The Bible labels a rise in wickedness, selfishness, and chaos that results in extensive revolt towards God.
2 Timothy 3:1-5– But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.
“This calls for believers to stay rooted in the truth of Scripture and not follow the captivating and misleading leaders.”
Matthew 24:12– "Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold." This verse highlights that as lawlessness and wickedness increase, the love and compassion that should characterize human relationships will diminish, reflecting the moral decay of the end times.
This moral deterioration is often evident in family failures, a rejection of biblical truths, and a world where righteousness is mocked while sin is famous. As believers, we are called to stand firm in our faith and defend God's truth in a society that progressively faces it.
Matthew 24:14 – "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come."
Mark 13:10 – "And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations." This is a nice one about the developments in technology and communication. The Gospel reaches more people and places than ever before. The contentment of this prophecy is a clear sign that we are moving closer to the end of the age.
The Bible also warns of the rise of false prophets, false messiahs, and the figure of the antichrist, who will deceive many and lead a rebellion against God.
1 John 2:18 Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour.
2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 Don't let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God's temple, proclaiming himself to be God.
False prophets and leaders will attempt to misinform people, and the antichrist will emerge as a prominent figure in the end times. This calls for believers to stay rooted in the truth of Scripture and not follow the captivating and misleading leaders.
In conclusion, these signs guide believers in spiritual preparation for Christ's return, encouraging a watchful and correct life.
What is holding you back from saying YES to the call of God in your life? Say YES to the call of God before it is too late, and you won't regret it.
LIFE IN BETWEEN
IThe Practical Side of Surrender
f you have been in and around the Christian circle, surrender is a term you must have heard on repeat. Though surrender can have multiple meanings in different contexts, largely what I am referring to is to give up control over something you hold tightly. It could be a goal, a dream, a timeline, a thing, a person, a position—it could be anything.
But what does surrender mean on a practical level? How does one do it? How does one give up control over something that means so much to them? When something is dear to us, our natural tendency is to hold it very close, protect it and make it come true or stay long with all of our might. The reason we do that is because we think nobody else can care for the said thing like we do. So, it is counterintuitive when someone asks us to surrender what is valuable to us.
However, when we read Bible closely, we can see that surrender is a large part of the Christian life. Jesus taught (If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it—Matthew 10:38) and modeled that. The Bible asks us to surrender our lives, plans, time, resources, and, in fact, everything we think we own. In our limited understanding, it is a very hard ask.
If you are anything like me, surrender is the last thing on your list. But why do you and me find it so difficult? Surrendering is challenging because it is a function of trust. We can willingly surrender only when we are convinced that the person we are surrendering to is good and only has good intentions for us, and the person we are surrendering to is capable of handling what we are surrendering. Even with God, it is the same. We can surrender our plans and ambitions only when we are convinced of the heart of God, his absolute holiness, and his authority.
Knowing my limitations in knowledge, skill, and influence, and God’s infinite grandeur, holiness and authority have overtime made this process easier for me. Knowing God automatically shows us how fickle, selfish and small we are. God is alpha and omega—the beginning and the end. He knows things we don’t. His view of our lives and the world in itself is comprehensive. He is holy; he has never sinned and cannot sin. That means He can’t sin against us. He is full of eternal love for us. His heart is for our good and wellbeing.
Once we get a glimpse of His nature, surrendering to Him will be our first response. And In Isaiah 30:15, we are given the promise that our strength comes from quiet trust and surrender in God (‘in quietness and trust is your strength).’ God bless.
Daya thinks it’s absolutely cool to be known by Jesus. She deeply appreciates nature, art and silence. Her dream is to fall in love with Jesus and humanity every day. Daya can be reached at dayaraja95@gmail.com
Daya Raja, Bangalore
HE IS WAITING FOR YOU!
Dear friend,
Thank you for reading this edition. We hope it helped you learn more about the second coming of Jesus Christ.
If you are reading this and have not experienced the love and power of God, we encourage you to embrace His love – offered as salvation through Jesus Christ. In His unending affection for us, God has a lot in store for your life and longs to have you as part of His family.
We also encourage you to rededicate your life to God if you were born again but drifted away from the call. Make the following prayer and accept Jesus as your savior: "Lord Jesus, I come before you today. I acknowledge that I am a sinner, and my sins have separated me from you. Today, I believe that you are the son of God and that you had me in mind when you got crucified and died. I believe that you are resurrected and seated at the right hand of the Father. I accept you today as my Lord and Savior. Thank you for paying the price for my eternal redemption. I am now the righteousness of God in Christ. I now ask you to fill me with your spirit. Amen."
Congratulations on surrendering or rededicating your life to God. You are now a new creation in Christ. We encourage you to join a family of believers (church) in your area, and we pray that you get established in your faith through studying the word by the grace of God.
God bless you, and see you in the next edition!
In His Service Team EGM Times.
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