Serious About the Series
- (Originally published on Feb. 1, 2026)
Last week after I returned from traveling in Canada, I gave you an introduction to Mark 13 which centered on the importance of studying eschatology. I may have surprised some by saying that eschatology is not my favorite Bible topic while at the same time saying we need to be very much aware of the theology of Christ’s return. These might seem like contradictory statements and would tend to make you believe that my excitement wanes whenever it is time to speak on the subject. I assure you this is not at all my reasoning. I believe the pastor’s task is to be right to the best of his ability on any subject he teaches. Many Bible doctrines are controversial, some to the extent that separate denominations of Christians exist because of these controversies. Many doctrines deserve separating from others because they are vitally important to our salvation, and if not salvation, they affect our sanctification and better knowledge of God.
One of the points in the message last week was that we study eschatology to keep ourselves from being deceived. I used examples of Seventh Day Adventists, Mormons, and Jehovah Witnesses. These are groups that corrupt the gospel after capturing the hearts of those who have keen interest in the Second Coming. Some are looking for that one religious group that is different and has hit on the “secrets” of deciphering the Bible on this subject. I want to warn, however, that a difference in the details of the tribulation, the exact placement of the millennium on a timeline and the positioning of Christ’s return relative to these do not always add up to deception nor has any bearing on the doctrine of soteriology (salvation). Good solid Christians vary on these. While I like to discuss my own eschatological position, I am in no mood to make enemies over the differences with good Bible believing Christians.
Several months ago, I discussed this with another pastor who acted as if I was from the moon because I could fellowship with others who differ on this subject’s interpretation. I hope I am known for being steadfast and uncompromising. If you have not yet discovered this, there is much you do not know about me. This subject is not salvific. Come at me with differences on justification, sanctification, ecclesiology, and other vital doctrines and we may spend time rolling in the dirt. My lack of spitting on opponents in no way implies that I am indifferent towards eschatology. I also spoke last week about how our understanding affects our godliness. If we stray away from using Christ’s return as incentive to live every day to become more like Christ, increasing in our sanctification, or as John says, “not to be ashamed before him at his coming,” our interpretations are defective. They must change to reflect God’s purposes in including the doctrine in His Holy Word.
Details in this area are difficult. In 2008-2012, we studied Revelation ending with 142 sermons. In 2014, more than 20 sermons covered Matthew 24-25. In 2016, most of our study of Heaven with 16 sermons was in Revelation. In 2018, there were 33 sermons on Revelation 2-3. The latest series on the subject in 2021 entitled “Living in the Light of Christ’s Return, ended with 75 sermons in 1 and 2 Thessalonians. Obviously, we have significant convictions and confidence in our position. I am not sure what the count will be for Mark 13, but I am sure no one will leave Berean thinking I just have no interest in the subject!
This leaves my final admonition for you. I have always encouraged questions. I cannot guarantee I have all the answers. If our nuances on this doctrine diverge, friendship and fellowship remain. This is true unless you want me to sit on your rooftop and wait.
Pastor V. Mark Smith