Mark 13:1-36 - Shaken and Stirred

It's strange for me to do a whole chapter in one study, but the truth is, chapter 13 is dealing with end of times stuff, earthquakes and shaking of the heavens.    As we enter 2011, we get closer to 2012, the year that some people claim the earth will go through a major disaster.   But biblically speaking, there is no date or time set for the return of Christ.    The whole chapter is something to ponder, and to reflect on.   It is also a warning about a few things ....

• Falsehood of many who claim to be the Messiah, and who will deceive many. (vs.5, 21-23)
• There is a time when believers will be persecuted publicly, but this is a time for us to testify the message of Christ (vs. 9-10) ..but at that time God will give us words to say.   
• vs. 13 "And everyone will hate you because you are my followers.  But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
• vs. 14 - a Sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing where he or it should not be, and a disaster for Judea
• vs. 26-27 - gathering of the chosen from around the world, and the Son of Man (Jesus) coming out of the clouds with power and glory.
• No one knows when this event will occur, but it will ... but we must stay alert!! (vs 32-33)  
• and the final word is vs. 37 "Watch for him!"

Out of this series of events, we know that God is in control, the plans are in His hands.   We also need to be watchful, and keep in mind that we are waiting for Jesus' return, and to not be off-guard when this happens.   For some these events sound terrifying, and indeed they are, but our hope lyes in Christ, and our salvation isn't wrapped up in this world, but the next.   Praise God, He is alive, and Jesus will return!!  What a great hope we have in Jesus.