Unfortunately, the vast majority of pastors in America cannot answer this question, because they are woefully—and willfully!— ignorant of biblical prophecy.
Eschatology matters. And it will continue to matter more as time unfolds.
In recent weeks, I have seen the most irresponsible cherry picking from the Bible concerning Apocalyptic themes, haphazardly linking this world event to this biblical event. I don’t blame the Christian layperson, since, again, they are not being taught biblical prophecy in their churches, or they are being taught really bad biblical prophecy. On the other hand, the Christian layperson has the responsibility for themselves to study God’s Word, including the book of Revelation (remember the priesthood of believers?).
As an eschatologist, I can say with confidence that much of what you are hearing in the news or through sensational, self-professing prophecy teachers is wrong-headed.
There are good books out there that explicate sound biblical teaching on the Apocalypse and other related topics, but if you want to learn more on the Apocalypse or the doctrine of the second coming of Christ, you can begin with my book Antichrist Before the Day of the Lord: What Every Christian Needs to Know about the Return of Christ.
I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I believe I have some important ones.
“But Alan, all that matters is that you love Jesus.” You can’t love Jesus while you willfully ignore his teachings on end times: “Remember, I have told you ahead of time” (Matt 24:25).
