Do you ever wonder what the draw is for so many people to study End-Times prophecy (aka: Eschatology)? Do you find it a waste of time because we are told we “don’t know the day or hour”? Maybe you find it overwhelming and confusing. Prophecy makes up approximately 1/3 of the Bible’s text, which means that it is important to God. Shouldn’t it be important to us? Let’s dive into How to use end-times prophecy to make disciples and strengthen your faith.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” — Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV)
1. Study the Whole Bible, Not Just Prophecy Passages
One of the biggest mistakes people make when studying prophecy is focusing only on books like Daniel, Revelation, and Matthew 24 without understanding the broader context of the Bible. End-times prophecy is not an isolated topic—it is the final act of God’s redemptive plan, which began in Genesis.
Genesis and Revelation: The Beginning and the End
Genesis and Revelation are bookends of the Bible. Everything that is lost in Genesis is restored in Revelation:
- In Genesis, sin enters the world through Adam and Eve (Genesis 3).
- In Revelation, sin is defeated, and God creates a new heaven and earth (Revelation 21:1-5).
- In Genesis, the tree of life is lost (Genesis 3:24).
- In Revelation, the tree of life is restored (Revelation 22:2).
- In Genesis, death begins (Genesis 2:17).
- In Revelation, death is destroyed (Revelation 20:14).
Understanding how sin corrupted the world in Genesis helps us see why God must bring judgment and renewal in Revelation. The fall of humanity explains why we need a Savior and why history is moving toward Christ’s return.
Noah’s Ark: A Picture of the Rapture
One of the clearest examples of end-times prophecy foreshadowed in Genesis is the story of Noah’s Ark. Jesus Himself compared the days of Noah to the time of His return:
“For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.” — Matthew 24:37-39
How Noah’s Ark Symbolizes the Rapture
- Noah was righteous but lived in a corrupt world.
- Just like believers today, Noah was set apart in a sinful society.
- God provided an escape before judgment came.
- The ark was Noah’s place of safety, just as Jesus is our refuge (Psalm 46:1).
- Noah and his family were lifted above the floodwaters.
- The rapture will remove the church from the coming tribulation (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
- Judgment fell only after Noah was safely inside.
- Just as the flood did not begin until Noah was sealed in the ark, God’s final judgment will not begin until He removes His people (Revelation 3:10).
God rescued Noah before judgment—just as He will rescue His church before the Great Tribulation. This isn’t just a comforting idea; it’s a pattern of how God works throughout Scripture.
God’s Faithfulness to Israel Proves He Keeps His Promises to All Believers
One of the biggest reasons we can trust God’s promises about the end times is because He has already proven His faithfulness—especially to Israel.
Why Israel Matters in Prophecy
Many of the promises in end-times prophecy revolve around Israel, yet some Christians mistakenly believe Israel no longer plays a role in God’s plan. This is not true.
Romans 11:1 says:
“Has God rejected his people? By no means! For I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin.”
Paul makes it clear that God has not abandoned Israel, and prophecy confirms that Israel has a key role in the last days:
- Israel’s rebirth as a nation (1948) was prophesied in Scripture.
- Isaiah 66:8 predicted Israel would become a nation again, and it happened in one day.
- Jerusalem will be central in the end times.
- Zechariah 12:3 says that in the last days, Jerusalem will be “a burdensome stone” for all nations.
- The Jewish people will recognize Jesus as their Messiah.
- Zechariah 12:10 foretells a time when Israel will “look on Him whom they have pierced” and mourn for Him.
What This Means for Believers Today
If God has faithfully kept His promises to Israel—even after thousands of years—then we can trust that He will keep His promises to us.
- If He promised to return for His church (John 14:3), He will.
- If He promised eternal life to those who believe (John 3:16), we can be sure of it.
- If He said He would never leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), He won’t.
Just as Noah had assurance of safety in the ark, and Israel has assurance of God’s faithfulness, we have assurance that Jesus will return for His people.
Why This Matters for Making Disciples
- Genesis and Revelation connect the entire story of redemption.
- Teaching others about prophecy should include teaching the whole Bible.
- Noah’s Ark shows that God provides a way of escape.
- The rapture is a promise of rescue, but only for those in Christ.
- God’s faithfulness to Israel proves He will keep His promises to us.
- This should encourage believers to trust Him fully.
By studying the whole Bible, not just prophecy passages, we gain a deeper understanding of God’s plan. This strengthens our faith and makes us more effective at discipling others.
✅ Action Steps:
- Read Genesis and Revelation side by side to see the connections.
- Study Noah’s story (Genesis 6-9) and compare it to Matthew 24:37-39.
- Learn about Israel’s role in prophecy and explain it to someone else.
- Memorize Romans 11:1 to remind yourself of God’s faithfulness.
Studying prophecy is important, but it’s just one part of our bigger mission—living for Christ and making disciples.
2. Prioritize Evangelism Over Endless Speculation
Many believers today love studying prophecy. They track world events, analyze timelines, and debate interpretations. But there’s a danger in focusing so much on prophecy that we miss Jesus Himself—just like the religious scholars did at His first coming.
The Pharisees and religious leaders of Jesus’ time knew the Scriptures. They understood the prophecies about the Messiah. Yet when Jesus stood in front of them, they refused to recognize Him. How did they miss it?
Their knowledge of prophecy did not translate into faith. They were so consumed with their own interpretations that they rejected the very One those prophecies pointed to.
The Religious Leaders Knew the Signs—But Still Missed Him
The Jewish religious leaders had every reason to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. They knew:
- The Messiah would be born in Bethlehem.
- Prophecy: Micah 5:2 predicted the birthplace of the Messiah.
- Fulfillment: Jesus was born in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:1).
- He would come from the line of David.
- Prophecy: Jeremiah 23:5 foretold a “righteous branch” from David’s line.
- Fulfillment: Jesus’ genealogy confirms His lineage (Matthew 1:1-17).
- He would perform miracles.
- Prophecy: Isaiah 35:5-6 said the Messiah would open blind eyes and heal the lame.
- Fulfillment: Jesus did exactly this (Matthew 11:4-5).
- He would enter Jerusalem on a donkey.
- Prophecy: Zechariah 9:9 predicted the Messiah would ride into Jerusalem on a donkey.
- Fulfillment: Jesus fulfilled this in His triumphal entry (Matthew 21:1-5).
- He would be betrayed for 30 pieces of silver.
- Prophecy: Zechariah 11:12 foretold the betrayal price.
- Fulfillment: Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16).
Despite all these fulfilled prophecies, the religious scholars of Jesus’ day rejected Him. Why?
- They expected a political savior, not a suffering servant (Isaiah 53).
- They loved their traditions more than the truth (Mark 7:6-9).
- They refused to humble themselves and acknowledge their need for a Savior (John 5:39-40).
Their knowledge of prophecy did not lead them to faith—and because of that, they missed their only opportunity to recognize Jesus for who He was.
The Same Danger Exists Today
Jesus warned that His second coming would also take many by surprise:
“Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” — Matthew 24:44
Today, many Christians love prophecy. They study Daniel, Revelation, and current events. They analyze wars, natural disasters, and global politics—but if they are not careful, they can fall into the same trap as the Pharisees.
Some become so focused on the signs that they forget about the Savior. Others spend their time arguing about timelines but neglect evangelism and discipleship.
How We Can Avoid Missing Jesus’ Second Coming
Instead of simply studying prophecy, we must use it to prepare our hearts and reach others.
1. Make Sure You Truly Know Jesus
The religious leaders knew about the Messiah but did not truly know Him. That’s why they rejected Him. Today, the same danger exists—some people love studying about Jesus but have never truly surrendered their lives to Him.
✅ Action Steps:
- Examine your faith. Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus, or just knowledge of prophecy?
- Read John 15:4-5 and ask yourself if you are truly abiding in Christ.
- Pray for God to reveal any area where you might be missing Him.
2. Keep Prophecy in Perspective
Prophecy is not given to us just to satisfy our curiosity—it’s meant to fuel our urgency to reach others.
✅ Action Steps:
- Instead of debating prophecy, use it as a conversation starter to share the gospel.
- Study Matthew 24, but also study passages on evangelism like Romans 10:14-15.
- Remember that the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) is our primary calling.
3. Watch for Jesus, Not Just the Signs
Many people today are looking for the Antichrist more than they are looking for Jesus Christ. This is a mistake.
✅ Action Steps:
- Fix your eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2), not just world events.
- Keep your heart ready by walking in obedience (Luke 12:35-40).
- Instead of obsessing over signs, focus on living as a faithful servant (Matthew 24:45-46).
Using Prophecy as a Tool for Evangelism
The right way to study prophecy is to use it to lead others to Christ. When people see wars, natural disasters, and global unrest, they often ask, “What’s going on in the world?”
This is a perfect opportunity to point them to Jesus.
How to Use Prophecy to Make Disciples
✅ Step 1: Start Conversations About Current Events
- When people express fear about the future, share the hope of Jesus’ return.
- Use Bible prophecy as evidence that God’s Word is true and reliable.
✅ Step 2: Show the Fulfillment of Prophecies
- Share how Jesus fulfilled over 300 Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah.
- Explain that just as the first prophecies were fulfilled, so will the ones about His return.
✅ Step 3: Present the Gospel Clearly
- Many people are afraid of end-times events. Use that as an opening to share how Jesus provides eternal security (John 10:28).
- Share Romans 10:9—if they confess Jesus as Lord and believe in His resurrection, they will be saved.
✅ Step 4: Disciple New Believers
- Don’t just lead people to Christ—help them grow in their faith.
- Encourage them to read Scripture, pray, and share their faith.
Don’t Just Study Prophecy—Use It for God’s Glory
The Pharisees knew prophecy but still missed Jesus. Many religious scholars today know prophecy but may not be truly ready for His return. We must learn from their mistake.
Studying prophecy should always lead to action. If we truly believe Jesus is coming soon, we should be:
- Sharing the gospel with urgency.
- Living in obedience and holiness.
- Discipling others and preparing them for His return.
Jesus is coming—let’s not miss Him. Let’s use what we know to bring as many people as possible into the Kingdom before it’s too late.
3. Live as If Jesus Could Return Today
Jesus could return at any moment. The Bible is clear that His coming will be unexpected:
“Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” — Matthew 24:44
If we truly believe that Jesus’ return is imminent, it should radically transform the way we live. It should affect our priorities, our choices, and how we spend our time. The reality is, many Christians say they believe in Jesus’ return but live as if it will never happen.
The urgency of our days is growing. The world is getting darker, time is slipping away, and yet many believers are distracted, complacent, or entangled in sin. We must be vigilant to avoid the things that pull us away from Christ and instead focus on living in expectation of His return.
What We Must Avoid as We Wait for Jesus
The Bible warns about several dangers that can lead believers to fall asleep spiritually and miss their calling in these last days.
1. Avoid Spiritual Laziness
Many Christians believe Jesus is coming back, but they live as if He’s not. They assume they have time to get serious about their faith “later.”
Jesus told the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) to warn about this. All ten virgins were waiting for the bridegroom, but only five had oil in their lamps when he arrived. The others were unprepared and missed their chance to enter the wedding feast.
✅ Action Steps:
- Live every day as if Jesus could return.
- Stay filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18) and actively seek God.
- Keep your faith strong and active, not passive.
2. Avoid Worldly Distractions
One of Satan’s greatest tactics is to keep us so busy and distracted that we have no time for God. Entertainment, social media, work, and even good things can consume our attention and pull us away from spiritual priorities.
Jesus warned in Luke 21:34:
“But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap.”
Distractions keep us from being alert and ready for Christ’s return.
✅ Action Steps:
- Set time limits on entertainment and social media.
- Prioritize time with God first in your day.
- Ask yourself: “Is this helping me grow spiritually, or is it just consuming my time?”
3. Avoid Sinful Compromise
Jesus is coming back for a pure Bride (Ephesians 5:27). Many Christians today are compromising with the world—living in sin while claiming to follow Jesus.
Paul warns in 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8:
“So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober… having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.”
We must examine our lives and turn away from anything that would make us ashamed if Jesus returned today.
✅ Action Steps:
- Repent of any known sin immediately—don’t wait.
- Live in holiness, knowing that we will soon stand before Jesus.
- Ask God daily to purify your heart and mind.
What We Should Focus On as We Wait for Jesus
Instead of living carelessly, we should live with intentionality, focus, and urgency.
1. Live with Eternal Priorities
If Jesus could return today, how should we spend our time? Should we be consumed with earthly success, material things, and entertainment? Or should we be building treasures in Heaven?
Jesus told us:
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” — Matthew 6:19-20
What we do for Christ is the only thing that will last for eternity.
✅ Action Steps:
- Ask: “Am I investing in things that matter eternally?”
- Spend time helping others grow in faith.
- Be generous—support ministries, help those in need, and share the gospel.
2. Stay Spiritually Awake and Watchful
Jesus constantly warned His followers to stay awake and watch for His return.
“Blessed is the servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.” — Matthew 24:46
Being spiritually awake means:
- Reading the Word daily (Psalm 119:105)
- Praying with urgency (Luke 18:1)
- Watching for the signs of His return (Matthew 24:32-33)
✅ Action Steps:
- Set a daily routine for Bible reading and prayer.
- Stay connected to other strong believers for accountability.
- Ask yourself each morning: “If Jesus came back today, would I be ready?”
3. Make Every Moment Count for Christ
Time is running out. Many people around us don’t know Jesus, and we may be their last chance to hear the gospel.
“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” — Ephesians 5:15-16
If we believe Jesus is coming soon, we should be bold in sharing our faith and intentional about making disciples.
✅ Action Steps:
- Share the gospel with at least one person this week.
- Look for opportunities to encourage and disciple others.
- Use your gifts to serve in ministry or help others grow in faith.
Live Like Today is Your Last Day
One day—maybe today—we will see Jesus face to face. Will we look back and wish we had done more for Him? Or will we hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23)?
Jesus is coming soon. Let’s live each moment with urgency—not in fear, but in faithful expectation.
✅ Ask Yourself Today:
- If Jesus came back right now, would I be ready?
- Am I living with eternity in mind?
- Who can I share the gospel with before it’s too late?
4. Stay Watchful Without Living in Fear
Many Christians today look at the world and feel overwhelmed with fear. Wars, natural disasters, lawlessness, and immorality seem to be growing worse every day. It’s easy to watch the news and feel hopeless.
But living in fear of the last days is applying prophecy incorrectly.
Jesus didn’t give us prophecy to cause anxiety—He gave it to us to provide hope. Instead of dreading what’s happening around us, we should recognize that it means we are closer than ever to our redemption.
“Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” — Luke 21:28
The worsening condition of the world is not proof that God has lost control—it’s proof that everything is unfolding exactly as He said it would.
A Darkening World is a Fulfilled Prophecy, Not a Reason to Fear
The Bible foretold that the last days would be filled with increasing turmoil. None of what we are seeing should surprise us.
Paul described it perfectly in 2 Timothy 3:1-5:
“But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power.”
When we see these things happening, it means:
✅ The Bible is true—prophecy is being fulfilled before our eyes.
✅ Jesus is coming soon—each passing day brings us closer to His return.
✅ We have work to do—there is still time to share the gospel before it’s too late.
Fear paralyzes believers, but faith moves us to action.
Why We Should Have Confidence, Not Fear
Jesus did not tell us about the last days so we would live in panic—He told us so we would be prepared and full of hope.
“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” — John 14:1
If you are in Christ, you are secure in His promises. The same God who has kept every prophecy will also keep you.
1. Jesus Has Already Overcome the World
No matter how bad things look, Jesus has already won the victory.
“In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33
Satan may be increasing his influence, but his time is short. Jesus is still on the throne, and nothing can happen outside of His plan.
2. God Has Promised to Protect His People
Throughout the Bible, God has a pattern of protecting His people before bringing judgment.
- Noah and his family were kept safe in the ark before the flood (Genesis 7).
- Lot and his family were removed from Sodom before destruction (Genesis 19).
- The Israelites were protected in Egypt while plagues fell on Pharaoh (Exodus 7-11).
God has always provided a way of escape for His people, and He will do the same for us.
“Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world.” — Revelation 3:10
If we are in Christ, we have nothing to fear.
3. The Darker the World Gets, the Brighter Our Light Shines
A dark world is not a reason to despair—it’s a reason to shine.
Jesus told us that believers are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14). The darker the world becomes, the more our faith stands out.
✅ Instead of focusing on fear, focus on sharing hope.
✅ Instead of hiding from the world, engage with the lost.
✅ Instead of worrying, trust that God has already written the final chapter.
How to Stay Watchful Without Falling Into Fear
✅ 1. Replace Fear with Faith
When fear creeps in, remind yourself of God’s promises.
- Memorize encouraging scriptures (Psalm 91, Isaiah 41:10, John 14:27).
- Pray for peace whenever fear arises (Philippians 4:6-7).
- Surround yourself with believers who build up your faith.
✅ 2. Stay Focused on Jesus, Not Just World Events
Yes, we should stay informed, but if we spend more time reading the news than reading the Bible, we will become overwhelmed.
- Limit how much time you spend on news and social media.
- Make Scripture your main source of truth and perspective.
- Keep your eyes on Jesus, not just world events (Hebrews 12:2).
✅ 3. Live With Purpose—Don’t Waste Time on Fear
We don’t have time to waste. Fear paralyzes, but faith moves us to action.
- Share the gospel with urgency.
- Encourage other believers—many are struggling with fear.
- Live a life of holiness, knowing Jesus could return at any moment.
Prophecy is Given for Hope, Not Panic
Jesus didn’t tell us about the last days so we would live in fear. He told us so we would be prepared, encouraged, and full of hope.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-control.” — 2 Timothy 1:7
If you feel afraid when thinking about prophecy, you are applying it incorrectly. Instead of seeing the end times as something to dread, see it as a reminder that God’s promises are being fulfilled.
The world is getting darker—but that only means our redemption is closer than ever.
So don’t be afraid. Look up, stand firm, and stay faithful. Jesus is coming soon!
What We Should Be Doing While We Wait for Jesus
Waiting for Jesus’ return isn’t passive—it’s active. Here’s how to stay ready:
1️⃣ Grow Spiritually – Keep strengthening your relationship with Christ.
2️⃣ Share the Gospel – Tell others about Jesus at every opportunity.
3️⃣ Disciple Others – Help new believers grow in faith and knowledge.
4️⃣ Live a Holy Life – Stay away from sin and distractions.
5️⃣ Stay Watchful – Keep your eyes on biblical prophecy, but don’t let it consume you.
Final Thoughts: Keep One Eye on the Sky, and Both Hands on the Gospel
Studying prophecy is powerful, but it should never take priority over making disciples. Jesus is coming soon, and our job is to make sure as many people as possible are ready.
So, sharpen your sword—study the Bible, all of it. Keep one eye on the sky—watch for His return. But most importantly, live with urgency—share the gospel, disciple others, and make every moment count for Christ.
I’m waiting and watching right alongside you. Let’s stay faithful together. Maranatha!
Other Resources:
Christ-Like Humility in Daly Life
Why We Watch for Signs in the Last Days
Living on the Edge of Eternity – Love Worth Finding
