Introduction: A World on the Edge
Right now, the world feels like it’s teetering on the edge. News of global conflicts, heated political debates, and startling phrases like “World War III” can shake us to the core. A recent conversation between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump dominated headlines, sparking concern around the globe. Hearing the words “World War III” spoken from the Oval Office is sobering—it brings to mind Billy Joel’s lyric, “We didn’t start the fire, it has been burning since the world has been turning.”
As a pastor, my role is not to dissect every political twist and turn. Instead, my calling is to point people to Jesus—inviting them to repent and believe in Him as Redeemer, Messiah, and King. No matter how chaotic the world becomes, we have a hope that cannot be shaken, rooted in Christ alone. This hope is not a flimsy wish; it is anchored in the reality of a risen and soon-coming King.
Unshakable Hope in Christ
Throughout history, believers have faced wars, economic hardships, and moral decline. In recent history, whether in World War I, World War II, or the Cold War, Christians found strength in the promise that Jesus is coming again. This simple, powerful truth has helped countless people stay firm in their faith, even during dark times.
Today, as news headlines repeat words like “war” and “crisis,” we can still find courage in the hope of Christ’s return. Our hope is not in governments or military power but in Jesus, who will one day set all things right. When we fix our eyes on Him, we discover peace that transcends the turmoil around us.
My Journey in End-Times Beliefs
I grew up with one prominent view of the end times—pre-Rapture dispensationalism. This perspective, shaped by teachers like John Nelson Darby and the Scofield Reference Bible, teaches that Jesus will secretly rapture believers before a time of great tribulation. While this view stirred anticipation for Christ’s return, it also led some to step back from the world, offering an escape instead of focussing on the return of Jesus.
As I continued studying the Bible, I realized I remain a premillennialist—someone who believes Christ will come back before He sets up a thousand-year reign on earth. Yet, I now lean toward what is called “historic premillennialism.” This position expects Jesus to return after a time of tribulation, reign with His people on earth, and then bring final judgment and restoration. Instead of abandoning the world, historic premillennialism encourages us to stay engaged, trusting that God will judge evil and renew creation.
Lessons from Pre-Rapture Dispensationalism
Even if I no longer hold the exact views of pre-Rapture dispensationalism, I appreciate what it contributed (and still contributes) to the church. This teaching reminded believers that history is not out of control in times of global crisis—like World Wars or the Cold War. It taught them to watch for Christ’s return and not lose heart.
However, the zeal of some pre-Rapture believers led to an “escape” mentality. They saw the world as beyond saving and focused on being taken out of it before things got worse. That approach can produce Christians who stop trying to reform society or invest in culture, assuming everything will soon be destroyed.
Embracing Hope Instead of Escapism
Scripture calls us to a different outlook. The early church’s cry was “Maranatha!” which means “Come, Lord Jesus!” (1 Corinthians 16:22, Revelation 22:20). This plea is not about giving up on the world; it is about longing for Christ to return and make everything new. Jesus will come in power, defeat evil, and establish His perfect kingdom.
If Jesus is indeed coming to renew all things, we have every reason to stay engaged here and now. Even when news stories, like the recent exchange between President Trump and President Zelensky, fuel anxiety about global tensions, we need not cower in fear or retreat from our calling. Instead of withdrawing, we proclaim His gospel. Instead of retreating, we serve and love our neighbors. Instead of despairing, we lift our heads because our redemption is drawing near (Luke 21:28).
Conclusion: Come, Lord Jesus
We live in uncertain times, but we do not place our trust in the shifting sands of politics or world events. Our hope is rooted in Jesus—the one who died, rose again, and will surely return. The church today must recover the power of this Christian hope, a hope that transforms how we live and love in a broken world.
This is not about escape; it is about the restoration of all things under Christ’s Lordship. Let us join the saints throughout history who have prayed for His return. Let us say again with full hearts:
Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus.