"The End Of the World?"

    I don't know if you saw it or not but in China on Tuesday, Dec. 18, the Chinese police detained more than 500 people from a group called "Almighty God" also called "Eastern Lighting" for spreading rumors about the world's impending doom and end. In this detaining, they seized leaflets, videos, books and other apocalyptic material. Here is the amazing part. This group holds to the Mayan calendar and teaches that Jesus has reappeared as a woman in central China! 

  On the news in America this week, there has been talk of the Mayan calendar of the prediction of the end of the world TODAY! People on the street, at work and in the media are speaking of this Mayan prediction. On the radio this morning, some were poking fun at the end of the world thought having a good time with it.

  What are we to do? Well, first we aren't to get caught up in all this hype and pay attention to it. We know as students of God's Scripture that it plainly states no one knows the time but it will come like a thief in the night (I Thes. 5). Secondly, when Jesus was speaking with His disciples about the impending destruction of Jerusalem (Matt. 24), He told His disciples that someone might say, "Behold, here is the Christ or there He is." Then came the words: "Do not believe him." (24:23) Why? "For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect. Behold, I have told you in advance." (24:24-25)

  All of this shows us just how blind people are but at the same time, people want to believe in something greater than the evil around. People are looking for something they can latch hold of and follow to find strength and relief. The problem, people are looking in the wrong places. They aren't being honest with Scripture and find a piece here or there to fit their thoughts while developing a doctrine they can use for their own. In all this, it has caused some distress to think it could be the end of the world. Others make fun of the Lord's return with no serious thought, especially no faith. Do you know what? Jesus is coming and when He returns the only question we ask is, will you be ready? He's coming at an hour when no one knows!