Has Jesus Returned?, Part 8

Christians often believe in an imminent "end of the world" because of long-standing tradition and biblical interpretations, yet the Bible does not explicitly state the world will end; this idea contradicts scriptural teachings like Genesis 8:21 where God promises not to destroy the earth again. The concept of a fiery apocalypse and rapture has been perpetuated by preachers and scholars for centuries despite a lack of direct biblical evidence, reflecting broader tendencies in religious institutions to adhere to dramatic eschatological predictions.

Shawn teaches that the biblical phrase "end of the world" in the King James Version is a mistranslation and should be understood as "end of the age," referring to the end of the Jewish age, not the physical earth or time itself. He clarifies that the Bible does not predict an end to the physical earth but rather speaks about the end of a specific era, particularly regarding the Jewish Mosaic system, which concluded around 70 AD.

The teaching emphasizes that the phrase "end of the world" in the Bible, particularly in Matthew, refers not to the literal physical end of the world, but to the end of the Jewish age ("aion"), which concluded around 70 AD, with Jesus' words directed specifically to His disciples about their current age. Additionally, the use of "end of the world" in 1 Corinthians 10:11 and other scriptures similarly denotes the conclusion of an era and serves as guidance and examples for the believers of that time, illustrating that these events had immediate relevance to early Christians rather than a future global end.

Shawn's teaching explores scriptural references that describe "the end of the world" not as the literal termination of the Earth, but as the conclusion of an age, particularly relating to the nation of Israel, around the time of the fall of Jerusalem. This interpretation suggests that biblical passages traditionally used to predict an apocalyptic end have been misunderstood, highlighting the misuse of these passages to manipulate and control believers with fear.

In Shawn's teaching, he interprets Peter and Jesus' words about the heavens and earth passing away as not referring to the physical world but to the age or world of those who rejected the Messiah, aligning with biblical events such as the destruction of Jerusalem. He suggests that current global conflicts and environmental issues are the result of human actions and not the fulfillment of biblical prophecy, emphasizing the importance of sharing Jesus' teachings and preparing for individual spiritual encounters with Him.

Shawn is offering a discounted package containing four books, four CDs, and a promised first edition of a new book for $59, available with free shipping through December 31, 2014, at www.hotm.tv, as a gift opportunity. The package includes writings discussing the intersection of Mormonism and Biblical Christianity, offering spiritual insights and music covering scripture passages.

Shawn's teaching addressed the Mormon Church's historical priesthood ban on black members, highlighting how it was rooted in outdated racial ideologies and acknowledging the modern church's denunciation of all forms of racism. Furthermore, it reflects the church's ongoing journey towards reckoning with its past and becoming more transparent as it embraces a diverse global membership.

Focus on being an open and humble vessel to receive God, avoiding self-righteousness and pride, while appreciating a logical and genuine approach to understanding the Bible and teachings of Jesus. Critique religious practices like those in Mormonism that emphasize goodness without true understanding, and recognize God as the ultimate measure and guide.

Jesus told the Pharisees in Matthew 23:39 that they would not see Him again until they recognized Him by saying "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord." Many people, including God's chosen people, fail to recognize Him, but it remains crucial for the future as we await His final return, highlighting the importance of understanding scriptural connections, such as those between Revelation, Daniel, and Matthew.