The Time Has Come

The Time Has Come

We all recognize those moments in life when something changes — when a new season begins that we cannot ignore. Maybe it’s a birthday that brings sudden awareness of our own mortality or a shift in our health that makes us pause. The question many of us face is this: How do we understand the times in which we live, especially as followers of Jesus? What does God want us to know and do in these critical moments?

The time has come to reflect deeply on the flow of history, the rise and fall of empires, and where we stand today in the grand story God is unfolding. This is not just an academic exercise; it is a call to action and faithfulness in a world growing darker yet waiting for the light of God’s people to shine more brightly than ever.

The Rise and Fall of Empires: A Pattern Through History

Throughout history, empires have risen and fallen in a pattern that reveals much about human nature and divine providence. Empires such as the Neo-Assyrian, Persian, Greek, Roman, Arab, Ottoman, and British have each had their moment of glory and then declined. Typically, these empires last about ten generations—no matter the technology or military power they wield.

Each empire begins with a remarkable outburst of courage and daring, often from a small, seemingly insignificant nation that erupts onto the world stage. Alexander the Great’s Macedonians and the early Muslim Arabs exemplify this phase. This is followed by the age of conquest, where boundaries are expanded with boldness and military skill. Then comes the age of commerce, where trade and wealth flourish, followed by affluence, marked by luxury, culture, and architecture.

However, this prosperity doesn’t last. As the empire grows wealthy and comfortable, its values shift. Public service and honor give way to personal gain; military glory is replaced by financial accumulation. Intellectual pursuits rise, but without a foundation of practical virtue and sacrifice, they lead to polarization and decline.

Finally, the age of decline sets in, characterized by internal division, defensiveness, moral decay, and social fragmentation. Wealth creates complacency and cynicism. Empires become defensive and fearful, trying to hold onto their power rather than advancing the common good. Ultimately, no empire recovers from this decline.

Where Are We Now? The American Empire in Decline

Looking at the United States through this historical lens reveals striking parallels. From the age of pioneers and conquest, marked by expansion and reform movements, to the age of commerce and industrial might culminating in World War II, America rose to global prominence. The post-war years ushered in affluence, with booming suburbs and civil rights movements, but also the growth of consumerism and reliance on fossil fuels.

Today, we find ourselves in what may be described as the age of intellect and decadence. Higher education is widespread, but intellectual debates often polarize rather than unify. The cultural landscape is marked by a philosophy of despair, where meaning and purpose are elusive, and social divisions deepen. Moral confusion, political polarization, and economic inequality are widespread.

Like previous empires in decline, America faces rising defensiveness, loss of tolerance, and erosion of foundational values such as civic duty and integrity. The welfare state grows, creating dependencies rather than empowerment. Social cohesion weakens as tribalism and identity politics replace a shared vision for the common good.

The Prophetic Perspective: The Time of the End Has Come

Scripture calls this era “the time of the end,” a period foretold by the prophets and described in books like Daniel and Revelation. Beginning around 1798, this time stretches until the return of Jesus Christ, marking the final chapter of human history as we know it.

During this time, global powers will increasingly enforce agendas that oppose God’s truth and liberty of conscience. Revelation 13 warns of a deep state authoritarianism that suppresses religious freedom and enforces false worship. The moral and spiritual crisis will intensify, with persecution against God’s faithful rising to unprecedented levels.

Yet, this prophetic understanding does not bring despair to believers but rather a call to courage. Knowing the end of the story—that Jesus will return, that every tear will be wiped away, and that justice and peace will reign—gives us hope and strength to endure the turbulence ahead.

Living Faithfully in the Time of the End

What does it mean to live in this time? It means that we must stand firm in our faith, commitment, and witness, no matter the challenges. We cannot be swayed by fear, threats, or societal pressure. Like the early martyrs who declared their loyalty to Christ despite persecution, we are called to be faithful witnesses.

This time demands a renewed focus on God’s word and the power of the Holy Spirit. Our lives must reflect the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, gentleness, generosity, self-control, and kindness. We are called to sacrificial love and ministry, to bear God’s last message of mercy to a dying world before the end comes.

This is a moment for deep roots in scripture, active prayer, and bold action to advance God’s kingdom here and now. Whether through serving in ministries, supporting outposts like Red River, or simply living out our faith authentically in our communities, the time has come to shine as lights in the darkness.

You Were Born for This Time

It is humbling yet profoundly encouraging to realize that we were not just born in this time by chance but were born for this time. God, in His wisdom and providence, has prepared each of us to be His witnesses in this critical hour. Just as Jeremiah was consecrated before birth for his prophetic mission, so God has set us apart for His purposes now.

Though the days ahead may bring hardship and opposition, the joy of serving Christ and seeing souls turn to Him will outweigh the trials. We have a promise that there will be a harvest—a great gathering of people from every nation and tribe who will stand with us on that sea of glass before the throne of God.

So, if you feel uncertain or unready, remember that God equips those He calls. The struggles we face are not signs of defeat but opportunities to demonstrate the power of God through our faithfulness. This is our time to choose courage over fear, faith over doubt, and boldness over timidity.

Hope and Invitation: Stand Firm and Shine Bright

As the world grows darker, the light of God’s people must shine ever brighter. We are living in a time unlike any other, a time of challenge but also of incredible opportunity to witness God’s love and truth to a hurting world. The promise is sure—we are not alone, and the victory belongs to Jesus.

If you have drifted away or feel weighed down by sin, this is the moment to recommit your life to Jesus. If you have never made that decision, know that He is waiting with open arms to receive you and transform your life. Your witness matters—not just in your community but across the cosmos, before angels and unfallen worlds.

Let us embrace this time with renewed dedication and hope. Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to fill us, to guide us, and to empower us to live lives worthy of the calling we have received. The time has come for each of us to rise, to serve, and to shine for Jesus, until He comes again.

“For those who believe, there is the promise of eternal life… The time has come to choose courage over fear, faith over doubt, and boldness over timidity.”

May God bless you as you step into the mission He has prepared for you in this pivotal time of history.