Jesus came. Advent provides vivid reminders through the Virgin Birth, heavenly heralds, and majestic songs that God keeps His word. More than fifty direct prophecies were fulfilled in Jesus’ First Coming.
Sadly, most people in Jesus’ day failed to make these connections. They flunked Prophecy 101. Only with hindsight and help from the Holy Spirit did the biblical authors clearly note these prophetic links.*
We suffer a similar malady when it comes to understanding Jesus’ Second Coming. The rapture, the future of Israel, and Millennial Kingdom are tricky topics. The Great Tribulation, Daniel’s 70 Weeks, and Revelation’s Symphony of Wrath intensify our need for interpretive precision.
If we are not careful, our discussions about end times descend into mere speculation. Thus, many of us default in saying nothing at all about the last days.
According to Pastor Bob Fetterhoff, silence is not an option. “As good students of the Word, it’s our responsibility to understand and teach this stuff. So much of the Bible is prophetic.” Fetterhoff added, “But we need to teach in a way that’s not speculative or weird.”
Bob’s passion sparked an idea. Last Things First is a two-day (February 6–7) regional gathering for Charis churches focused on Jesus’ Second Coming hosted at East Side Grace Brethren Church in Blacklick, Ohio. This event is a learning opportunity designed to inspire and educate pastors, lay leaders, and maturing disciples in collaboration with Grace Theological Seminary.
Friday night’s session includes music, Scripture reading, and inspirational talks from Daniel O’Kane, Randy Smith, and Bob Fetterhoff. Saturday morning offers numerous workshops from Charis Fellowship leaders to build understanding and anticipation for Jesus’s Return.
I am not an end times enthusiast. In fact, I often skirt the topic because I’ve seen the negative effects of speculation. I’ve heard similar confessions from other Charis leaders.
However, when we leave this critical area of theology unaddressed, we miss discipleship opportunities. We ignore questions our people are asking about current events, future rewards, and the fate of Israel. We allow our present sufferings to overshadow Christ’s glorious return. And we lose urgency for global mission.
Consider joining us for the Charis Equip Event on Biblical Prophecy. Sign up today here. Registration includes entrance, digital resources, commemorative communion cup, and breakfast. Moreover, everyone who registers will be entered in a drawing to receive a $4000 travel scholarship to tour the Holy Land with Dr. Randy Smith.**
Maranatha.
*Matthew cites five fulfillments in his first two chapters. In the final chapter of Luke’s gospel, Jesus surveys the Hebrew Scriptures, marking how they predicted his life, death, and resurrection.
**Scholarship winner must be present to receive scholarship for. It is good for 12 months through Christian Travel Study Programs.
Written by Tim Sprankle, Charis Fellowship Executive Director