I take part in a facebook group that is filled with Gospel Preachers. It’s a place for us to discuss doctrines and ideas and trade words of advice and support.

Recently there was a discussion about a doctrine called “eschatology.” In short, the doctrine refers to things concerning the end of the world. I want to share something I wrote when I was asked to give my thoughts on the famous text of John 14 (where Jesus says “I go to prepare a place for you…” I thought it might be beneficial to be read by everyone. Hopefully you will find some value in it:

I think Jesus is saying “I’m dying (John ch13), but don’t be sad, because my death will bring the church into existence, and in the church we will be together.”

So I think it ties in with the concept of the last supper, mentioned just before the conversation of John 14. The idea that we (in the church) fellowship with the Lord; in a sense we eat and drink the meal WITH Him.

So when He says “I go to prepare a place” that place is the church, because why would Christ (who left Heaven) need to go prepare Heaven? Isn’t it already there?

And when He says “I will come again” that’s His promise to return to take us (His church, who is with Him on earth) to be with Him in Heaven.

You could also interpret the “come again” as a resurrection promise, and that through His resurrection we can be in the church and in fellowship with God (“received unto” Himself).

That would make sense with regards to His answer when asked “where are you going so we can be with you?” and He said “to the Father.”

What does the church accomplish? It restores us to the Father.

Really, the New Testament is pretty quiet on the issue of the end of the world. It’s almost as if God wants us to be ready whenever or however it may occur.

Paul mentions it to the Thessalonian brethren (in both letters, which tells me we’re not the first bunch of brethren to be hung up on it), and Peter makes a big deal out of it in 2 Peter, when he takes on the scoffers who deny it will ever happen.

Other than that, pretty much what the New Testament letters say on the subject is summarized thusly: “Trust us, He’s coming. Just be ready.”

Key takeaway is this:

Trust [the Bible], He’s coming. Be ready.

Are you?