VS. March 15, 2025 Devotional
March 15, 2025
1 PETER 4:7a | 7a The end of all things is near;
At first blush this seems like straightforward prediction that the End and Return of Christ are imminent. If so we’d be forced to conclude that Peter had made a mistake. But this phrase is used just in the same way Jesus talked about the kingdom being near or at hand. In his ministry whoever repeated and accepted his authority entered the kingdom. Wherever he was the kingdom was present “among you.” Since Jesus is King and final judge, the End was brought into his ministry.
It works in a similar way with the Return. The Resurrection was a return of the Resurrected Jesus and he is present to us through his spirit now. Since he is the final judge and Lord of History, the End impinges on the present. How we respond to Christ now has implications for final judgement and for the moment his hidden presence is public and universal. Thus the End impacts the present and the present will be reflected when history concludes.
The Kingdom and the End are present where Jesus reigns. Do you understand this?
Gracious God,
The End and your Return will make sense of every human life and event. Help me live as someone who is aware of final things in daily experiences and opportunities.
Amen.
