Finding Comfort in the End Times: The Christian's Antidote to Fear

In this insightful message from the 2014 Growing in Grace and Truth Bible Conference, Stephen Armstrong of Verse by Verse Ministry International confronts the fear, confusion, and skepticism that often surround the topic of "The Last Days." He argues that a proper understanding of biblical prophecy is not meant to be a source of anxiety, but is instead God's intended antidote—a deep well of comfort, hope, and peace for the believer.

Tackling the common objections head-on, Armstrong examines why many Christians either dismiss eschatology as unknowable speculation or shy away from it out of fear. He then provides a clear and compelling exposition of 1 Thessalonians chapters 4 and 5 to demonstrate that these passages, far from being terrifying, are filled with encouragement.

This lecture carefully unpacks:

• • The crucial distinction between the "Appearing" of Christ for the Church (the Rapture) and the "Day of the Lord" (the Tribulation).

  • Why the Christian's hope is rooted in the promise of being saved from the wrath to come.

  • How an understanding of the end times is foundational, not optional, for Christian maturity and is the key to living a peaceful, powerful, and effective witness in a chaotic world.

  • The reason Paul concludes his teaching on both the Rapture and the Tribulation with the command: "Therefore, comfort one another with these words."

If you have ever felt apprehensive about studying the end times or wondered about its relevance, this message will reframe your perspective, replacing fear with the profound comfort and steadfast hope found in the promises of God.