We are currently in the period of time called “times of the Gentiles.” (Luke 21:24) This time began in 70 AD and continues to this day. The Apostle Paul, through the Holy Spirit, reveals to us that, “Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, and in this way all Israel will be saved.” (Romans 11:25-26) Paul calls this a mystery. This is a part of God’s plan since the foundation of the world. I recently went to the Broadway play “Fiddler on the Roof” with Jessie, which depicts this truth shown to Paul almost 2000 years ago.
In 1948 with the rebirth of Israel as a nation, in 1967 the capture of Jerusalem by Israel, and in 2018 the declaration by the United States that Jerusalem is the Capital of Israel, all prophetic signs, even warning us that the time of the Gentiles is coming to an end.
The “times of the Gentiles” is the period of time given by God for the Gospel to be preached to the whole world, to all peoples. Jesus said just before his arrest, crucifixion, and resurrection that, “the Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, then the end will come.” (Matthew 24:14)
The convergence of the signs related to the nation of Israel and the spread of the Gospel to the whole world tells us Jesus is coming soon. I am now looking for the rise of scoffers in an increasing number who will mock and ridicule this truth. “They will say, where is this coming he promised?” (II Peter 3:4)
“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (II Peter 3:8-9)
Are you ready for the coming of Christ? It is very near, even at the door.