Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been the largest military conflict among European nations since the end of World War II. Daily updates and horrific scenes remind us of the pain and suffering endured by the people of Ukraine, including the women and children. Today’s headlines continue to ponder the possibility of a nuclear clash and the spread of war to other regions. For the follower of Christ, it is natural to speculate how this fits into Bible prophecy or the coming of Christ.
The disciples once asked Jesus, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3, NKJV). Jesus responds by talking both about the destruction of Jerusalem that happened in 70 A.D., but also talking about His second coming. Depending on when Christ returns, these events will be nearly or more than two thousand years apart. This means that we have been living in the last days for approximately two thousand years. In fact, Peter identified the beginning of the last days with the event of Pentecost and the coming of the Spirit on the early church (Acts 2:17).
One of the statements Jesus makes to His disciples in response to their question is found in Matthew 24:6-8, “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.” Our broken world will feel the pain of sin until Jesus returns. Though we should pray and work for peace, we understand that conflict is inevitable as long as hearts are corrupt. Our comfort is found in Christ’s words, “See that you are not troubled.” In a world of pain we find our peace in the Lordship, love, and sovereignty of Jesus Christ. In a world that seems out of control, we know that our God is completely in control.
A second statement of Jesus during a description of trouble is, “Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Matthew 24:44, NKJV). Should the present conflict alert our senses to the coming of the Lord? Yes. Should every conflict? Yes. Will we be able to pinpoint when Christ will come based on military conflicts? No. When should we be prepared for the return of Jesus? All the time. Should we be troubled? No.
Speculations move into hyper mode whenever there are wars and rumors of wars. What should we do as we watch the world scene unfold? First, never be troubled. Work and pray for peace. See how God will use this to further the gospel. Second, always be ready. Make sure you are ready for the coming of Christ and strive to help others be ready. Live continually looking for the Lord Jesus while serving Him in a broken world.