When interpreting the Bible, there are important questions that we must answer. “What?” must be answered: “What has God revealed?” and “What does it mean?” This has been what I have written about regarding eschatology up to this point: “What has the church agreed on regarding last things?” (see part 1) and “Whathas the church disagreed on regarding last things?” (see part 2).

Now we turn to another important question about last things: “Why has God revealed what is to come?” God has not told us how He will bring all things to a climatic end so that we can make cool, detailed charts of future things (as helpful and fun as those can be at times). There are reasons why He has pulled back the curtain to capture our attention and affection for what He has in store. Even though Christians and churches differ on eschatological issues (such as the Millennial Kingdom and what should be interpreted literally or symbolically), all true churches and all Christians can agree God has revealed these glorious truths of what is to come for specific reasons. Below is a small sampling of Scripture passages that state the purposes for God revealing future events. I would encourage you to take some time to read these Bible verses, mediate on them, and let them have their intended effect on your heart, perspective, and life. May our hearts continue to join the anthem, “Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20)

• Matthew 24 – so that we would boldly take the gospel to the ends of the earth.
• Matthew 25 – so that we would be watchful and ready for Jesus.
• 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 – so that we would grieve with hope and encourage one another with these hopeful words.
• 2 Thessalonians 1:3-12 – so that we would be steadfast and faithful in persecutions and afflictions.
• 2 Timothy 4:8 – so that we would love the day of Jesus’ appearing.
• 2 Peter 3:1-14 – so that we would live lives of holiness and godliness being diligent to be found in Christ.
• 1 John 3:1-3 – so that we would hope in God and thus be purified in Him.