THE LAST DAYS. 2nd Timothy 3 The “last days” started when “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” “The Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world,” and He came to do “the will of My Father.” His goal for lost humanity was to “seek and save that which was lost” and “bring many sons to glory.”
The traits of people in the last days were clear when Timothy was advised to stay away from them. Some were nonbelievers, and others were unfaithful individuals claiming to be Christians. They were being misled by “every wind of doctrine” that false teachers spread. These same traits are seen in people today. The “last days” will continue until Christ returns and righteousness rules under His divine authority.
One of the saddest things to realize is that such traits can be found even among those who claim to teach the Christian truth. Throughout the centuries of this age of grace, people have set dates and led God's people to believe that because these are the last days, we should do nothing to advance the kingdom since the Lord is coming soon—today or tomorrow. While we recognize from the signs and times that His return is certain, what truly matters to us is the promise He made to receive us unto Himself, not the signs and events.
God’s plan to redeem sinners, build His church, and oversee world events is progressing on schedule according to His timing. We often project our limited understanding onto His plan, yet we know nothing about God’s sovereign design. Our opinions about events, times, and people lack validity when compared to God's sovereign plans.
The Holy Spirit continues to work through convicting power and saving grace as God's word is proclaimed worldwide. God’s work and will are still prevailing over evil, and people are entering the kingdom of God. Victory in Jesus remains evident wherever the Gospel is preached. The “last days” will go on until the Lord Jesus Christ sits in power and glory on His throne as King of kings and Lord of lords.