Do you think Christ will come again and the world will end this year? I get very discouraged when I see the way the world is going - the economic situation, terrorism, crime, warfare, etc. - and I wonder how much longer God is going to let this continue. — Mrs. V.G.

The Bible clearly teaches that someday God will intervene and bring an end to this present evil world. This will happen when Christ comes again to establish His Kingdom of righteousness and peace. As the Bible says, "In keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness" (2 Peter 3:13).

But the Bible also warns us against making exact predictions, or claiming we know precisely when Christ will return. Just before He ascended into heaven, Jesus told His disciples, "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set" (Acts 1:7). At the same time, the Bible urges us to be watching for His coming, because it could happen at any time: "Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come" (Mark 13:33).

Jesus did, however, tell us that certain events or signs must happen before He returns. For example, He warned that in the last days the world would be shaken by wars and disasters. He also said the Gospel must be preached to the ends of the earth. These signs are happening today.

The most important question, however, is this: Are you ready for Christ's return? You can be, by turning to Him in faith and trusting Him as your Lord and Savior. Don't let another day go by without Christ.