The End

In my personal devotions, I am currently approaching the end of the Book of the Revelation (of Jesus the Christ.). However, that book is, by no means, the only Biblical book that refers to the end of all that we know and experience in this life. Peter, for example, writes: “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” (I Peter 4:17).

As Peter wrote his first epistle, foremost in his mind was a desire to encourage the believers to stand firm in the face of suffering and trial. On four occasions he used the term “the end,” focusing his readers’ attention on the final resolution of all things. A study of these occurrences gives us a glimpse of the tenor of the entire book.

 

The first use followed an explanation of the nature and benefits of the various trials in a believer’s life. The result would be a pure, effective faith now, as well as “receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls” (1:9; AV), the final ultimate deliverance of our whole person. As the outcome of your faith you obtain the salvation of your souls.

 

Meanwhile, “gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1:13; AV). Our minds should be completely (“to the end”) ready for action, sober and expectant, focused on the ultimate resolution of all trials.

 

This ultimate resolution could come at any time: “The end of all things is at hand” (4:7). Our responses should be to “therefore keep sane and sober for your prayers.” To be sober is to be of sound judgement, making careful decisions, not based on emotion; especially watchful as we pray, with eternity in mind.

 

The last occurrence of “the end.” in Peter's letter is the one referred to at the beginning of this post. The time of final judgment on both Christian and non-Christian looms nearer and nearer. But God’s cleansing of His people has already begun, and it at times is not pleasant, although beneficial. His judgement on those outside “the house of God” will be much more severe, with no opportunity for reconciliation. This warning should motivate who know the Lord, in our ministry to the unsaved. It should also speak to any who do not have a personal, saving relationship with Him, to carefully consider their ways. There is yet time to come to the Saviour - but that time is becoming increasingly short!