Last Things

Tonight, I want to talk about the concept of "last things." This might not be the kind of "last things" you typically think of when you hear the phrase, but let’s start with Isaiah chapter 2 and the idea of the "last days."

God, Jesus, and the apostles never taught us to focus on predicting when the last days of the earth would be. However, we do see the phrase "last days" used several times in scripture. Jesus himself spoke often about the "last day." One of those passages is Isaiah 2, which says:

"The word which Isaiah, the son of Amoz, saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem: Now it will come about in the last days that the mountain of the house of the Lord will be established as the chief of the mountains, and it will be raised above the hills, and all the nations will stream to it. Many peoples will come and say, 'Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, that He may teach us concerning His ways and that we may walk in His paths.' For the law will go forth from Zion, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem."

This prophecy refers to the establishment of the church. Isaiah, inspired by God, describes this time as the "last days."

There’s a historical framework in the Bible where time is divided into three periods. The first is the Patriarchal Age, when God spoke directly to the patriarchs like Adam, Abraham, Noah, and Isaac. After that came the Jewish or Mosaic Age, centered around the Law given to Moses. Finally, we have the Christian Age, when Christ established the church and brought us into His kingdom. This is the last period of time before everything is wrapped up.

The Hebrew writer captures this idea beautifully, saying, 

"God will fold everything up like a mantle and put it away." 

So, we’re living in the "last days," not because Jesus is necessarily coming back soon—although He might—but because the last days began when the church was established.

In Acts 2, we see Peter explaining the fulfillment of this prophecy. After Jesus' resurrection, He instructed the apostles to wait in Jerusalem until they were endowed with power. Peter then declares, 

"This is what was spoken through the prophet Joel: 'And it shall be in the last days,' God says, 'that I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind.'”

This marked the beginning of the last days.

But these "last days" are not the "last things" I want to focus on tonight. Instead, let’s talk about the final opportunities we encounter in life—moments that could be our last chance to do something important.

For instance, in Matthew 5 and 18, Jesus emphasizes reconciliation. If you’re presenting your offering and remember that your brother has something against you, Jesus says, 

"Leave your offering at the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother." 

On the other hand, if your brother has sinned against you, you are to go to him and address the issue. The point is clear: don’t wait for the other person to come to you. Take action while you still can.

Another "last thing" is expressing gratitude. In Luke 17, Jesus heals ten lepers, but only one returns to give thanks. This Samaritan glorifies God, and Jesus commends him. Gratitude is a fruit of the Spirit, and we must seize opportunities to thank those who have impacted us before it’s too late. Write a note, make a call, or express your thanks in person.

Ecclesiastes 9 reminds us of the inevitability of death. It says, 

"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for there is no activity or planning or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol where you are going."

This reminds us to live fully and cherish our loved ones while we can. Treat each day as if it could be the last time you see someone, ensuring they know how much you love and appreciate them.

Finally, think about your last opportunity to speak to someone about Jesus. Don’t let fear or hesitation stop you. Ask someone how they are doing with the Lord or if they are ready for eternity. There will be a last time for everything, including opportunities to share the gospel.

If you’re listening tonight and you’re outside of Christ, remember that there will also be a last invitation song you hear. Don’t let this be the one you ignore. Take the opportunity now to obey the gospel and put Christ on in baptism.

Let’s stand and sing for anyone who wants to respond.