Until the Time of The Gentiles is Fulfilled

And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled. Luke 21:25 KJV

Today, this scripture stood out to me, as I was reading this chapter in the book of Luke. We are always wondering when will we know the Lord is coming? There are many signs visible around the world. In fact, if you read  Luke chapter 21, it will seem like you are reading a current news cast. This particular scripture stood out to me because it shows us we need to keep our eyes on Israel and what is happening in their country. Political unease, threats of war and an all around lack of peace. 

There is a specific time the end of sharing the gospel will occur. The scripture in Luke tells us this. This is important because once that door of opportunity closes, we know the end is very near. We always hear that phrase “the end is near”. I am pretty sure you have probably heard it for the last 30-40 years. When we cry wolf too early it can cause people to think the Christians do not know what they are talking about. I am very certain, as the apostle Paul cried out these words in the first century, the people thought he was out of his mind too. Only thing, for sure, is there truly was a great persecution during his time. Many Christians were killed and others went into hiding.

And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer: Revelation 10:6 KJV 

In this scripture in Revelation, John shows us an angel is speaking with God the Father and he is making a promise that a time is up. In other words, a deadline has come up. This angel is actually the Lord Jesus. Remember, this is a vision that is being revealed to John and he has written down what he saw. Jesus is the only One who could make such promises to the Father. If you notice there is a colon at the end of the scripture, we can read a little more in the next verse.

But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets. Revelation 10:7 KJV

The voice of the 7th angel actually marks a huge series of events for the people on earth. When the 7th angel sounds the last trumpet, the dead in Christ will be raised from the dead and the rest of the believers who are alive will be, instantly, transformed into the incorruptible bodies. This is one of the many promises the Lord said would happen to those who remain faithful until His return. You can read more on another post called “Order of the First Resurrection” to see more details on the event.

The first scripture we read in Luke tells us when all the gentiles have accepted Jesus, this also means, when everyone who has accepted the invitation to be part of the family of God. Gentiles, is anyone who, is not from Israel. There will be a time when no one else will want to hear people preach about God or anything related to Jesus. This portion has already begun and grows by the day. Then, we see the link of how this scripture in Revelation is a continuation of the prophecy Jesus spoke. The door of preaching the good news of Jesus Christ to the lost will close, then another door will be opened that releases destruction and vengeance to those who rejected Him.

Keep your eyes on Israel and you will know when your redemption is near! Meditate on these scriptures and look to the heavens because the time is close. Amen!