We live in an era of unprecedented turmoil. Nations are at war, economies are crumbling, natural disasters are happening with increasing frequency, and moral decay is eroding the foundations of society. People everywhere are asking, “What is happening? Where is history heading?” These are not new questions. In fact, Jesus’ disciples asked Him the same thing over two thousand years ago, and His response in Matthew 24 reads like today’s headlines. Let’s examine the signs Jesus gave us—signs that point to His return. But don’t just read these as prophetic warnings; consider them a wake-up call to live in readiness. Because Jesus is coming soon.
7 Signs We Are Living in the End Times:
1. The Rise of False Teachings
Jesus began His answer in Matthew 24 with a warning: "Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many" (Matthew 24:4-5). Paul echoed this, saying people will gather teachers to “say what their itching ears want to hear” (2 Timothy 4:3). False teachings like the prosperity gospel and universalism are leading many astray from the Truth of Christ.
Early in my ministry, a pastor advised me to “keep my sermons positive” if I wanted my church to grow. Instead, I committed to passionately proclaiming the uncompromising Truth of Christ—and that became the entire mission of our global Leading The Way ministry. As more churches compromise Scripture, staying rooted in God’s Word is our only safeguard. The Bible is not just a book—it is the living, breathing Word of God. In a world overflowing with deception, we must anchor ourselves in its Truth.
2. Unprecedented Moral Decay
Jesus told us that there would be an “increase of wickedness” in the last days (Matthew 24:12). The apostle Paul emphasized that people would become "lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy" (2 Timothy 3:1-2).
We are living in an era where sin is not only tolerated but celebrated. The world calls evil good and good evil (Isaiah 5:20). Our culture embraces selfishness, materialism, and pride, and those who speak against these sins are often met with opposition. In these dark days, Jesus commands us to be salt and light—preserving a world in moral freefall and piercing the darkness with the hope of the Gospel.
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3. Wars and Rumors of Wars
Jesus predicted, "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" (Matthew 24:6).
Growing up in Egypt, I saw firsthand the fragility of peace. With cyber-attacks and nuclear weapons, today is no different. The war in Ukraine has destabilized Europe, and tensions between world superpowers threaten to spark global conflict. Yet, Jesus tells us not to be alarmed. Why? Because He is still in control. Conflict is a symptom of a fallen world, but it is also a sign that we are drawing closer to His return.
4. Global Crises and Natural Disasters
Jesus said, "There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains" (Matthew 24:7-8).
The COVID-19 pandemic shook the world, revealing the fragility of human systems. Earthquakes, hurricanes, and wildfires are occurring with increasing intensity and frequency, causing widespread devastation. Some say, "These things have always happened," but I tell you, the frequency and magnitude are unprecedented. The birth pains are intensifying. We should not be surprised by the increasing chaos but rather look up—for our “redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28).
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5. Persecution of Christians
Jesus made it clear: "Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me" (Matthew 24:9).
Around the world, persecution against Christians is intensifying. In the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia, believers are facing imprisonment and even death for their faith. I recall visiting an underground church where believers whispered prayers for fear of being overheard. Yet do you know what struck me the most? Their unwavering joy.
My friends, what they endure today, we may soon face in the West. The world is growing increasingly hostile to Christianity. In the face of this opposition, we are to “rejoice and be glad” (Matthew 5:12), unashamed of the Gospel that saves.
6. The Rise of Globalism and the Coming One-World Government
Jesus warned of “the abomination that causes desolation” (Matthew 24:15), referring to the dramatic unveiling of the Antichrist.
The Bible speaks of a future global system under the rule of the Antichrist (Revelation 13:7-8). Today, world leaders push for a unified global agenda through economic, political, and technological means. But the pandemic reminded us of how quickly global powers can exert control. Digital currencies, AI surveillance, and centralized control are setting the stage for the totalitarian rule prophesied in Scripture.
7. The Spread of the Gospel to All Nations
Despite the darkness ahead, there is a glorious promise: "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come" (Matthew 24:14).
We are seeing this prophecy unfold before our very eyes. Through media, technology like Leading The Way’s KINGDOM SAT TV channel and solar-powered Navigators, and underground church networks, the Gospel is advancing even in restricted areas. I have witnessed former Muslims risk their lives for Christ and seen hunger for God’s Word in places where Bibles are forbidden. The Gospel is advancing, and nothing can stop it.
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Are You Ready for the End Times?
Immediately after answering the disciples’ question, Jesus shares the parable of the wise and foolish virgins (see Matthew 25:1-13). He teaches that it’s not enough to wait for the bridegroom; we must be prepared. The wise virgins took extra oil for their lamps, ensuring their light would not go out. The bridegroom’s arrival was sudden, and there was no time to buy more oil. Once the door was shut, the foolish virgins could not enter.
This is an urgent wake-up call. We can’t afford to be spiritually unprepared or complacent. We must live as if Christ’s return is imminent, ready to meet Him at any moment!
The signs are all around us. Jesus is coming soon. Are you ready? Now is the time to settle this question in your heart. Surrender to Christ. Live with urgency. Share the Gospel. And stand firm until the end. Here’s how you can be spiritually prepared:
4 Ways to Be Spiritually Prepared for the End Times
1. Repent and Believe:
If you have not yet placed your trust in Jesus Christ, now is the time. He alone is the way, the Truth, and the life (John 14:6). Surrender to Him now.
2. Stay Anchored in God’s Word:
Immerse yourself in God’s Word daily. Don’t just read the Bible to acquire knowledge; read it to know its Author. This resource is a great place to start.
3. Share the Gospel:
Don’t keep the Gospel to yourself. Tell your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors how Christ saved you. Share what sets Him apart from so-called religious founders. Proclaim the Good News of His forgiveness and the hope of eternity with Him.
4. Live in Expectancy:
Jesus commanded us to watch and pray (Luke 21:36). Our hope is not in this world, but in the coming Kingdom of God.
My friends, the signs are clear. The time is short. Let us be faithful and watchful, for our redemption draws near.
“Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” – Revelation 22:20
In his compelling and timely book Is the End Near?, Dr. Michael Youssef examines what the Bible says about the signs of the end times—and how you can hold fast to Christ in an increasingly hostile world. Go deeper with this in-depth study of Jesus’ urgent words in Matthew 24-25.
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Watch Dr. Youssef’s greatest sermons, explore original Christian podcasts, browse an expansive collection of Biblical content, and submit prayer requests at ltw.org
Originally published Tuesday, 04 March 2025.