I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ.Galatians 1:6-7 (ESV)

If you were to pick one book of the Bible that propelled the Reformation forward it would be Galatians. It was a lighting bolt that shot through Martin Luther and the thunder that resulted echoed across Europe.

. . . knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. They will say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.” --2 Peter 3:3-4 (ESV)

The BIG one is coming!!! We are told that something will end life as we know it. Global climate change, a super-virus, shortages of food or energy, and even a zombie outbreak have all been cautioned about. What is out of vogue is to think that God is the one that will end things, that being only a silly, non-scientific, ancient notion that holds no weight. 

Doctrine is contained in thick, dusty books located in the back of libraries far away from everyday life. It’s great for seminary students and professors but unnecessary for real people. Be honest. Is that how you think of doctrine? My guess is, you wouldn’t pick up a book on doctrine for some light pleasure reading. In the buzz of life it seems pretty distant. But I propose it really is not. In fact, I think everyone is a theologian. And everyone lives by some doctrine, even atheists. 

Talking about eschatology brings out all sorts of different ideas and emotions. Some people are excited to figure out the puzzle. Some start scanning the headlines. Some begin to question and fear that they are not ready. Some are hoping it doesn’t come anytime soon because they have more to do. Others are just confused or even frustrated. How about you?

From the eclipse to the fires to the hurricanes, I’ve heard more theories, ideas, predictions, and fear about the end times then in my recent memory. Some even come with an extra side of bad theology, and others tend to use the Bible more like a Nostradamus prediction. Most severely lack a clear biblical understanding and history, and most betray our American centric perspective. None that I have seen point to a greater Hope.

'Your words are so foolishly and ignorantly composed that I cannot believe you understand them.'

'You are a bungling magpie, croaking loudly.'
Martin Luther