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Shadows of the end times are to be found in Ezekiel, especially in the remainder of this chapter. These may present quite a different picture of that time than what is generally taught. It is an imperative that we hear what the Word is saying to us. An age of great contrasts will prevail. Peace, which is sought after so desperately by the leaders of peaceful nations has been taken from the earth. As we have seen, the rider of the red horse eliminated, (snatched away), peace from the earth. Rev. 6:4 Because of the constant increase of violence, wickedness, and unrighteousness there can be no peace. There is no peace in the heart and actions of the wicked. Isa. 48:22 In many areas of modern day life, violence has become a rod and is in command, thus there are those who rule in wickedness, or because of it. Eze. 7:11.
An item which seems to be totally overlooked by many in their teaching of the second coming of Christ is the total annihilation of the wicked. Ezekiel made the statement that none shall remain. The NIV translation is very illuminating and comprehensive. ìNone of the people will be left, none of that crowd — no wealth, nothing of value.î Eze. 7:11 Please consider, prayerfully and carefully the events accompanying Him when He comes as a thief. Anyone who reads their Bible would know that Jesus will come suddenly, as a thief sneaking into a house during the night time when all are asleep. Paul gave us these facts pertaining to His second coming. That day WILL come and it is called the day of the Lord. 1 Thess. 5:2 But what happens on that day? He said it was to be a day of sudden destruction and they, the wicked, will not escape the death and carnage of that day. 1 Thess. 5:3 After the return of the Lord Jesus there will not be one individual alive on the face of the earth. It is completely impossible to live through such a catastrophe.
Peter enlarged on the life destroying events of that day when He will come as a thief and the dead in Christ rise first, then those in Christ who are yet living on the earth will be caught up to be with Him. (1 Thess. 4:16-17) The following are the cataclysmic occurrences which accompany His second coming and take place when He comes as a thief. Coming as a thief is not meant to mean secretly but rather unexpectedly, even as Jesus taught by saying that His coming would be at a time when men would be surprised by His appearance, for to them He will come without warning. Mat. 24:44 His coming as a thief is a surprise and unexpectedly only to the unsaved. Jesus has not delayed His coming. The plans of the Lord are on schedule and will be finished when all prophecy pertaining to that day has been accomplished.