In a world marked by unprecedented change and uncertainty, many are seeking answers to the pressing question: Are we living in the end times? Pastor Greg Laurie, senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in California, recently addressed this very topic in a compelling sermon titled “Is Jesus Coming Back Again?”. Drawing from the Bible, Laurie highlighted key signs that suggest the return of Jesus Christ could be imminent, urging Christians to remain vigilant and prepared.
Pastor Laurie began by emphasizing the frequency and importance of Christ’s return in Scripture. He noted that the New Testament alone mentions Christ’s return over 300 times, equating to about one in every 13 verses. Furthermore, Laurie pointed out that 27-33 percent of biblical prophecies pertain to this significant event, many of which have already been fulfilled with remarkable accuracy.
Laurie’s message is clear: the same God who has fulfilled past prophecies with 100 percent accuracy will surely fulfill those that remain. This certainty serves as a foundation for Christians to trust in the coming of Christ and to stay alert to the signs that indicate His return.
In his sermon, Laurie listed several “signs of the times” that he believes point to Christ’s imminent return. Among these are global political and military developments that closely align with biblical prophecies. For instance, Laurie sees the emergence of China as a superpower, the decline of the United States as a dominant global force, and the persistent threats against Israel—all mentioned in the Bible—as key indicators.
Laurie also highlighted statements from world leaders about a potential Armageddon, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine. These developments, he suggested, are not merely geopolitical shifts but fulfillments of biblical prophecy that Christians should heed.
Beyond global politics, Laurie pointed to the rapid advancement of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, as another sign of the end times. He warned of increasing government overreach and control, a phenomenon he believes is setting the stage for future prophetic events. This, coupled with the rise in drug use, international financial instability, mass shootings, and the disintegration of the family unit, paints a picture of a world in moral and spiritual decline—exactly as the Bible predicts for the last days.
Laurie cited 2 Timothy 3:1, reminding his congregation that “in the last days, there will be satanically energized times, and things will go from bad to worse.” For Laurie, the current state of the world is a clear fulfillment of this prophecy, signaling that Christ’s return is drawing near.
Another troubling trend that Laurie identified is the blatant promotion of immorality across all platforms. He pointed to the redefinition of gender, the acceptance of child gender mutilation, and the aggressive marketing of such ideologies as signs of a deeper spiritual battle. For Laurie, these issues are not merely cultural or political but are indicative of a broader rebellion against God’s design and order.
Laurie expressed concern over the increasing normalization of these practices, particularly when they are endorsed by parents and promoted by mainstream media and corporations. He sees these developments as further evidence of the fulfillment of biblical prophecy and urges Christians to stand firm in their faith amidst these challenges.
Despite the sobering nature of these signs, Laurie also pointed to positive indicators of Christ’s return. He referenced Acts 2:17, which promises that in the last days, God “will pour out [His] spirit on all flesh.” Laurie shared that he has witnessed this outpouring in recent years, citing examples such as the revival at Asbury University in Kentucky and the widespread impact of the “Jesus Revolution” film, which has led to numerous conversions and spontaneous baptisms.
These events, according to Laurie, are evidence of the Holy Spirit’s work in preparing the world for Christ’s return. He encouraged Christians to recognize these movements as a sign of God’s continued presence and activity in the world, even as darkness seems to grow.
Pastor Laurie challenged his listeners to reflect on the implications of these signs for their own lives. He posed two critical questions: “What does this all mean to us?” and “How should this teaching impact us from Scripture that Christ could come back at any time?”
Laurie urged Christians to let the study of Bible prophecy influence their daily lives. He dispelled the notion that prophecy is too difficult to understand, asserting that God’s intention is not to conceal but to reveal His plans. The book of Revelation, in particular, offers blessings to those who study it and take its message to heart.
However, Laurie also cautioned against the extremes of date-setting or speculating on the exact timing of Christ’s return. Citing Matthew 24:36, he reminded his congregation that “no one knows the day or the hour” of Christ’s return—only the Father knows. Nonetheless, Laurie firmly believes that the signs point to a return that is closer than ever.
As the world continues to change rapidly, Laurie’s message is a call to vigilance, faith, and readiness. For Christians, understanding the signs of the times is not about fear but about hope and preparation for the glorious return of their Savior.