II Corinthians 6:14-18 “For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Bilial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: ‘I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean and I will receive you’. ‘I willk be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty’.”
Matthew 3:12 “His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquestionable fire.”
Revelation 13:16-17 “He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.”
As Christians, we have been forewarned of times when a clear distinction will need to be made between the World and those who live in Christ. We are called to “come out from them” and align ourselves firmly on the side of righteousness. This charge becomes increasingly significant as we approach what is referred to by Christians as the ‘End Times’.
Recognizing What Happens in the World During the End Times
The End Times, as described in Scripture, is a period of unparalleled global and spiritual upheaval. Society’s moral compass is thrown into disarray as societal norms blur the lines between right and wrong. This chaotic time is fraught with the rise of false prophets and the spread of lawlessness, leading many away from their faith. After the opening of the first seal, the rider of the white horse begins his battle for the hearts and minds of the people – spreading confusion and preparing the masses to take the mark of the beast.
The utter seriousness of these times necessitates that all Christians pray for and develop discernment so as not to be led astray and prepare, in one’s faith, to persevere during the times to come. As the turmoil gathers around us, understanding the unique trials of the End Times equips us to remain resolute in our faith. Despite the surrounding chaos, we are called to stand strong, holding fast to our beliefs.
Being aware of these prophesied events, it is our duty as believers to prepare ourselves. This is not a call to fear, but a call to readiness. We must fortify ourselves with the truth of God’s word, cling to our faith, and remain vigilant against deception and strong in persecution.
The Call to Separation
Scripture provides clear guidance on how Christians should conduct themselves in an increasingly chaotic world. In 2 Corinthians, believers are admonished to consciously distinguish themselves from the world’s corruption. The apostle Paul uses the phrase “come out from them,” an unequivocal directive to separate ourselves from activities and practices contrary to God’s commandments.
This call for distinction doesn’t necessarily imply physical segregation, but it stresses a more critical form of differentiation, one of spirituality and morality.
As followers of Christ, we are expected to model our lives based on righteousness and godliness. We are to embody His teachings in our actions, our words, and our relationships, signifying an explicit separation from the world’s norm. I’m reminded of a saying that my high school Bible teacher would often say; “your walk talks and your talk talks but your walk talks louder than your talk talks.” Our “witness” – the way that we live our lives and the way that we are seen living our lives, should say more to those who witness our lives than any words could possibly convey. I frequently say “don’t have a teaching, be a teaching.” So, as Christians we must first separate ourselves in our behavior and in the way that we live our lives – being an evident witness to the World.
Further, our commitment to living a life that is pleasing to God envolves the willingness to relinquish any form of association that compromises our faith or dampens our spiritual light. This includes a conscious effort to avoid indulging in worldly practices that are at odds with God’s standards. We are called to live in the world but not be of the world and we are called to be a light that shines the Word of Christ for all to see (John 17:11-23).
When we “come out from them,” we boldly disavow all forms of unrighteousness and impiety. We commit to not being molded by the world’s standards, but instead, we strive to transform ourselves by continuously renewing our minds; “And do not be conformed to the world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Romans 12:2). This transformation allows us to shine brightly as visible emblems of God’s love and righteousness in a darkened world.
In these crucial times, abiding by God’s command to separate ourselves serves as a visible testament of our unyielding faith in Him. It not only helps us maintain our spiritual integrity but also enables us to stand firm amidst the trials and tribulations that come with the End Times. In these times, God, through His Messiah, will be separating the wheat form the chaff, He will gather His wheat and burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire (Matthew 3:12). We must be separate not only to let our lights shine but also to be ready for the gathering up of God’s elect.
Being Distinct from the World
When we look into the idea of being distinct from the world, we find that it revolves around embodying values and behaviors that run counter to those often supported by society. Living distinctively means prioritizing the pursuit of God’s kingdom above all else. It’s about manifesting love, humility, kindness, self-control, righteousness and godliness even when the world might encourage otherwise.
When the apostle Paul says to “come out from them,” he’s not just talking about physical separation, but a spiritual and moral departure. We reject lawlessness and immorality and no longer let ourselves be conformed to the World’s standards.
Remember, however, that while we are to be distinct, we are not to isolate ourselves – at least not in the beginning of the End Times, the time of sorrows. As Christ’s followers, we have the duty to impact our world positively, shining our light and sharing the hope of the gospel. Our distinction should not prevent us from engaging with the world, but rather, it should inform how we engage.
When we’re distinct from the world, we’re best equipped to extend love, understanding, and kindness in ways the world often fails to do. This distinction also makes us better equipped to share the gospel of God’s love and redemption for humanity effectively. As we move through these End Times, let’s embrace our call to be distinct, allowing our lives to reflect God’s love, righteousness, and hope.
There will, however, come a time when we must physically separate ourselves from the World, at least to some degree. Let’s look now at that time.
Balancing Distinction and Engagement During the Beast System
In the turbulence of the end times, Christians will struggle with the specter of the beast system looming over their very existence. With the God’s command to abstain from the mark of the beast, which will dictate economic participation, believers will find themselves walking a delicate tightrope between survival and steadfast faith. While the world plunges into chaos and conformity, Christians are called to remain separate, resolute in their allegiance to God and His commands. Finding a balance between remaining true to God’s commands and still surviving will be one of the most difficult parts of the days of sorrows.
In trying to find this balance, Christians may seek refuge in tight-knit communities, fostering mutual support and resource-sharing networks. Embracing self-sustainability through homesteading and alternative economies could offer a means for bypassing reliance on the beast system for survival.
Moreover, maintaining a steadfast connection with God and His Word, grounded in prayer, scripture, and fellowship becomes indispensable, fortifying believers against the seductions of bowing to the beast system out of desperation.
As we try to navigate the treacherous waters of the end times, Christians will need to cling to their identity as citizens of a higher kingdom, anchored in the hope of redemption and deliverance, whether it be rapture or the second coming of the Messiah.
It is through resilience, solidarity, and unwavering faith, that we will remain untainted by the mark of the beast, preserving our souls even as we struggle to survive the terrifying chaos of the end times.
Building Strong Christian Communities
In these increasingly uncertain times, the importance of building strong Christian communities and networks cannot be overstated. Such communities act as safe havens where believers can find solace, strength, and encouragement – not to mention providing the necessary framework for surviving outside of the beast system. They serve as sanctuaries where the teachings of God’s Word are upheld, and the love of Christ is evident in every interaction.
These groups, bonded by a shared faith, become a lifeline for each member. They provide a platform for mutual support, allowing believers to share their struggles and victories, thereby strengthening their collective faith. As Paul encourages us to do in Galatians 6:2, these communities “bear one another’s burdens” living out the law of Christ in tangible ways.
These strong Christian communities also become a beacon of God’s love and truth to those outside. They extend the love of Christ beyond their borders, reaching out to those who are lost, hurting, or in need. These communities embody the Gospel in action, showing the world what it means to live as Christ taught.
Furthermore, these communities equip each member for the spiritual battles that are an inevitable part of the End Times. They foster spiritual growth through teaching, prayer, worship, and fellowship, ensuring that each member is armed with the armor and truth of God’s Word and the certainty of His promises.
Such communities also act as a spiritual check for its members. They uphold accountability, ensuring each person remains faithful to the teachings of Christ and does not fall prey to the deceptive tactics of the enemy. Through mutual correction and encouragement, these communities ensure every believer stays on the path of righteousness.
In conclusion, as we enter and move through the End Times, the role of strong Christian communities is critical for our spiritual and physical survival. They not only provide spiritual support and encouragement but also provide a physical environment where Christians can remain free from the beast system, at least for a time and they can also serve as visible testaments of God’s love and truth in a world increasingly shrouded in darkness. Let us, therefore, strive to build such communities, that we may stand strong in our faith and shine brightly for Christ amidst the darkness of the tribulation.