end times

According to some predictions, the world was supposed to end this weekend on September 23. It didn’t. So, here we are, still wondering when and how it’s going to happen.

Editor's Note: Pastor Roger Barrier's "Ask Roger" column regularly appears at Preach It, Teach It. Every week at Crosswalk, Dr. Barrier puts nearly 40 years of experience in the pastorate to work answering questions of doctrine or practice for laypeople, or giving advice on church leadership issues. Email him your questions at [email protected]

Dear Roger,

You said in today's post that you will post your answer to "what does 666 mean" when somebody asks you. May I please be considered a "somebody" so that you will do so?

I, too, believe in "types and shadows" and do believe that the Bible is to be read both historically and predictively. We are certainly living in some very frightening, scary times, aren't we? The antichrist knows his days are numbered . . . and so do we. So, what is the real meaning of 666? May you be greatly blessed. Mary Kay

Dear Mary Kay,

Here is your answer to what 666 means according to the book of Revelation:

Linking the “Unveiled” film with all evangelical Christians is unfair. When we wake up Sunday to find the video’s prophecy unfulfilled, even more people are likely to mock our faith.

Evangelist Franklin Graham recently commented on events in the world today, and suggested that they could be signs of the end times and Jesus’ impending return.

The recent total solar eclipse, referred to as the Great American Eclipse, has led many to speculate on end times events. Now, as two major hurricanes followed closely on the heels of the eclipse, some believe these cosmic events have spiritual significance.

A total solar eclipse will take place in the U.S. on August 21, 2017. People around the country are planning eclipse-viewing parties and eagerly awaiting this event which last happened 38 years ago.

Even now, believers pour over scripture looking for clues to Christ’s reappearance. Jesus himself told the disciples he’d return soon, so where is he?

When Jesus left this earth, He promised that He would return one day and take us to live with Him in His heavenly Kingdom. We are living now in the Church Age, and regardless of what you believe about specific eschatology of the end times, all Christians can agree that Christ is coming back and we are called to be ready and walking the straight and narrow path so that He may tell us "well done, good and faithful, servant" on that glorious day when we meet Him face to face.

Here are eight things you can do as you seek to cultivate a life centered on Christ, eagerly awaiting His return.

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A total solar eclipse will be visible in the U.S. on August 21, 2017. Some are speculating that this may be a sign of the end times and Christ’s return.

Anne Graham Lotz, the daughter of Billy Graham, has admonished Christians to be prepared for the rapture which could happen at any time.