A Great and Mighty Earthquake

“Oh, that You would rend the heavens and come down, that the mountains might quake at Your presence.” (Isaiah 64:1)

When the disciples wanted to know details about end-time events, Jesus told them that the beginning of the end would be marked by false claims about Christ that will mislead many people. He said, “You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.” (Matthew 24:1–8).

Of all these things Jesus mentioned, earthquakes standout as “natural” events that happen to mankind. We know basically what causes them, what happens during and after them, and that we cannot control them. Earthquakes occur all over the earth at various times and magnitudes. For years there have been discussions as to when and where “the big one” will hit. The Bible answers those questions.

When: “Then the seventh angel poured out his bowl upon the air, and a loud voice came out of the temple from the throne, saying, “It is done.” This occurs just before the return of Jesus Christ (Revelation 16:17; 19:11–16). Where: After this statement of finality, there will be lightning and thunder and a great earthquake upon the earth, which affects Jerusalem, the great city, (Revelation 11:8), the cities of the nations, every island, and the mountains (Revelation 16:18–20; Zechariah 14:1–8). This earthquake will be more devastating than any ever experienced since the beginning of time.

This massive earthquake will help prepare the land for the events leading up to the establishment of the millennial kingdom of Jesus Christ on the earth (Revelation 20:1–6). There is no need to wonder why earthquakes occur since Jesus said they would. Please note—the exact date and time are not mentioned, however, that is not important. Our responsibility as Christians in view of these facts is to be ready for His return (2 Peter 3:10–18; Revelation 22:12–17).