What did Jesus say about the End Times?
The question of the end times–often called “eschatology” in theological discourse–has fascinated and troubled humanity for millennia. Within the Christian tradition, Jesus’ teachings on the end times are central, providing both warning and hope. His words are recorded primarily in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), especially in what is known as the Olivet Discourse, as well as in the book of Revelation and other New Testament writings. This article examines what Jesus said about the end times, the signs he described, his promises regarding the world’s end, and how these teachings fit within the broader biblical narrative.
Jesus’ Teaching on the End Times: The Olivet Discourse
The most comprehensive teaching from Jesus about the end times is found in the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24-25, Mark 13, Luke 21). These passages were spoken on the Mount of Olives, shortly before Jesus’ crucifixion, in response to his disciples’ questions: “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3).
Jesus begins by warning his followers not to be led astray, for “many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray” (Matthew 24:4-5). He describes a period marked by deception, wars, rumors of wars, famines, earthquakes, and persecution. Importantly, Jesus cautions, “all these are but the beginning of the birth pains” (Matthew 24:8). These events, while alarming, are not themselves the end, but signs that the end is approaching.
Signs of the End Times According to Jesus
Jesus outlines several signs that will characterize the period leading up to the end. These include:
False messiahs and prophets who will perform signs and wonders to deceive (Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22).
Wars and rumors of wars, nation rising against nation, and kingdom against kingdom (Matthew 24:6-7).
Natural disasters such as famines and earthquakes (Matthew 24:7; Luke 21:11).
Persecution of believers, betrayal, and hatred (Matthew 24:9-10; Mark 13:9-13).
The increase of lawlessness and the love of many growing cold (Matthew 24:12).
The proclamation of the gospel to all nations: “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14).
These signs are not meant to foster speculation or fear, but to encourage vigilance and faithfulness. Jesus emphasizes that while these signs will occur, “concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only” (Matthew 24:36). The unpredictability of the timing is a recurring theme, underscoring the need for constant readiness.
The Abomination of Desolation and the Great Tribulation
A key event Jesus mentions is “the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place” (Matthew 24:15; see also, Daniel 9:27; 11:31; 12:11). This refers to a future act of sacrilege in the temple, which will signal a period of intense tribulation. Jesus warns, “For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be” (Matthew 24:21). This period will be marked by unprecedented suffering, but Jesus assures that “for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short” (Matthew 24:22).
The Coming of the Son of Man
Central to Jesus’ teaching is the promise of his return. He describes his coming as unmistakable and visible: “For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man” (Matthew 24:27). After the tribulation, “the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven” (Matthew 24:29). Then, “they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory” (Matthew 24:30; see, Daniel 7:13-14).
Jesus’ return will be sudden and unexpected, “like a thief in the night” (Matthew 24:43-44; 1 Thessalonians 5:2). He urges his followers to be watchful, faithful, and ready at all times: “Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Matthew 24:44).
Parables and Promises: Living in Light of the End
To illustrate how his followers should live in anticipation of the day of the Lord, Jesus tells several parables: the faithful and wise servant (Matthew 24:45-51), the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), and the talents (Matthew 25:14-30). These parables emphasize vigilance, preparedness, and faithful stewardship. The message is clear: the timing of the end is unknown, but the call to faithfulness is constant.
Jesus also promises ultimate justice and restoration. In the parable of the sheep and the goats (Matthew 25:31-46), he describes the final judgment, when he will separate people “as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.” The righteous will inherit eternal life, while those who rejected him will face eternal punishment. This underscores the seriousness of responding to Jesus’ call and the reality of final judgment.
The Book of Revelation and the Fulfillment of Jesus’ Words
The Book of Revelation reflects a vision of Jesus to the apostle John, echoing and expanding upon Jesus’ earlier teachings. Jesus is depicted as the Lamb who was slain and the triumphant King who will return to judge and restore all things (Revelation 5:6-14; 19:11-16). The signs of the end–wars, famine, persecution, cosmic disturbances–are described in vivid apocalyptic imagery (Revelation 6-18).
Revelation also promises the ultimate hope for believers: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4). This vision of the new heavens and new earth fulfills the promises Jesus made about the kingdom of God and the restoration of all things.
Old Testament Foundations for Jesus’ Teaching
Jesus’ teachings about the end times are rooted in the Old Testament prophets. Daniel, Isaiah, Ezekiel, and others foretold a future day of the Lord, marked by judgment and the coming of God’s kingdom. Daniel’s visions of the “Son of Man” coming with the clouds (Daniel 7:13-14) and the time of distress (Daniel 12:1) are directly referenced by Jesus. Isaiah’s prophecies of a new heaven and new earth (Isaiah 65:17; 66:22) anticipate the ultimate restoration described in Revelation.
The Purpose of End Times Teaching: Hope, Warning, and Mission
Jesus’ teaching on the end times is not meant to satisfy curiosity or fuel speculation, but to inspire hope, warn of judgment, and motivate mission. He assures his followers that suffering and evil will not have the last word. The call is to endure, remain faithful, and proclaim the gospel until he returns: “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14).
The apostle Paul echoes this hope: “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first” (1 Thessalonians 4:16). The promise of resurrection and eternal life is the anchor for Christian hope.
Conclusion - What did Jesus say about the End Times?
Jesus’ words about the end times are both sobering and encouraging. He warns of deception, tribulation, and judgment, but also promises his return, the vindication of the righteous, and the renewal of creation. The signs of Jesus’ return–wars, disasters, persecution, the spread of the gospel–are reminders to remain watchful and faithful. Ultimately, Jesus’ teaching calls believers to live in readiness, hope, and mission, trusting that God’s purposes will be fulfilled and that, in Christ, the end is not to be feared, but anticipated with confidence and joy.