Warning Signs that the World is Ending, According to the Bible

By: Ben Campbell | Last updated: Oct 31, 2023

The Bible is rich in prophetic visions of scenarios that will unfold as we approach the end times. 

While interpretations vary depending on translations and books, constant themes arise. Here are some of the most prevalent signs Christians look for during the end times. 

Natural Disasters on a Recurring Basis

The Bible claims that the Earth will experience “birth pains” as it approaches the end times, which could be interpreted as natural calamities.

Advertisement
Cars sit abandoned in the Bronx after devastating flood hits New York

Source: Spencer Platt/Getty Images

In Matthew 24:7-8, it says “There shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in diverse places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.”

Rumours of Wars and Nations Against Nations

The scriptures speak of great wars during these dark times. This could indicate global conflicts and heightened tensions between neighbouring countries. 

Advertisement
Pro-Russian rebels seize tank from Ukrainian forces in Uglegorsk

Source: Pierre Crom/Getty Images

Matthew 24:6-7 says, “Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.”

Falling Away From Faith

During these turbulent times, the Bible claims there will be a noticeable departure from the Christian faith as many are deceived by others.

Advertisement
Billboard in San Diego, California, for those who don’t believe in God

Source: Sandy Huffaker/Getty Images

In 2 Thessalonians 2:3, it says, “Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness.”

The Arrival of False Prophets

Warnings of false prophets during the end times are fairly common in the Bible. Individuals will arise who will claim divinity and may even proclaim to be the return of the Messiah. 

Advertisement
Slayer portrays the cross of the Anti-Christ at a concert in Indianapolis, Indiana

Source: Joey Foley/Getty Images

Rumors of this idea can be found in Matthew 24: 4-5, where Jesus warns the people that many will come in his name, claiming they are the true Messiah.

Wickedness Will Increase Around the World

In this period, wickedness will increase around the world. Compassion and love will turn cold, and people will seek selfish goals. 

Thieves destroy the inside of a department store near the Brooklyn Center in Minnesota

Source: Scott Olson/Getty Images

According to Matthew 24:12, “The increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold.”

Advertisement

Persecution of Christians

Believers in the gospel will experience hatred, persecution, and even death because of their faith.

Christians gather together in Washington, DC, at the “Stand Up For Religious Freedom” rally

Source: Win McNamee/Getty Images

According to Matthew 24:9, Christians will be “handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations” at the end.

Advertisement

The Gospel Preached Around the World

While the prophecies centered on the end times are generally negative, one claims that during this period, the gospel will be taught to all nations.  

Man spreads the word in the United Kingdom that Jesus is set to return illustration of a globe with a Christian cross and poppy flowers

Source: Carl Court/Getty ImagesFreepik

Matthew 24:14 says, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”

Advertisement

The Rebuilding of the Temple

Many interpreters of the Bible have suggested that the reconstruction of the Temple in Jerusalem is an event that marks the end of times. 

Jewish men and women come together to recite prayers in Jerusalem, IsraelPanorama view of the Western Wall in Jerusalem

Source: Alexi Rosenfield/Getty ImagesFrancis Dean/Getty Images

Given the historical and spiritual significance of the Temple of Jerusalem, it’s clear it plays a huge role in the prophecies. 

Advertisement

Signs in the Night Sky

Not only will specific events on EarthEarth signify the end times are upon us, but celestial events are also interpreted as signs the end has arrived. 

Earth shadow passed over a rare blood moon in Gaza City, Gaza Strip in 2007Solar eclipse from 2013 in Australia

Source: Abid Katib/Getty ImagesJan Hitchcock/Getty Images

Events such as darkened suns, such as eclipses, and blood moons are associated with the end of time. 

Advertisement

The Arrival of the Antichrist

One of the most talked about events during the end times is the arrival of a figure known as the Antichrist, who opposes God. 

The antichrist has come to take the place of Jesus

Source: Hulton Archive/Getty Images

He will come to deceive many believers of the gospel and demand the people worship him as opposed to God and Jesus.

Advertisement

Increase of Travel & Knowledge

Some argue that there are several quotes from the Bible that state extensive travel and knowledge among the masses will be prevalent during the end of the world. 

Plane flying across the sky/Google logo on smartphone

Source: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images/Chesnot/Getty Images

For example, in Daniel 12:4, God says to Daniel, “As for you, Daniel, keep secret the message and seal the book until the end time; many shall wander aimlessly and evil shall increase.”

Advertisement

Mock The Return of ChristA Globalized Economy

Some Christians believe that several verses in the Book of Revelation explain that a global economy or community is absolutely a sign. 

Photo of US dollar bills, British GDP, and Euros

Source: Matt Cardy/Getty Images

Advertisement

The Return Of Israel

The re-establishment of Israel as a nation according to its ancient borders is seen as a clear indicator that the end times are coming.

Source: Getty Images

While Revelation 13:16-17 is certainly up for interpretation, the general consensus is that all people will be marked by the devil and that connection, or global community, means the apocalypse is near. 

Advertisement

Change in the Moral Compass of Society

Finally, it has been said that the end of the world will be seen when the moral compass of society drastically changes. And as 2 Timothy 3:3 says, there will be “lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.”

Woman wears pride flag walking through field/Keep Abortion Legal sign at protest

Source: Ian Forsyth/Getty Images/Alex Wong/Getty Images

Some Christians believe that each and every one of these warning signs is here today in one form or another, signifying that the end times are upon us. 

Advertisement