Has Jesus Returned?, Part 4

Former Latter-day Saint Shawn McCraney argues that traditional denominations such as Mormonism and Catholicism, which emphasize mandatory rituals and practices, offer a soteriological justification for weekly gatherings in physical church buildings, contrary to non-denominational churches that avoid such rituals and primarily serve a social function similar to country clubs. He questions the necessity of constructing costly facilities for non-liturgical churches, suggesting that their gatherings are centered around socializing rather than essential religious practices, and critiques their leaders for replicating a superficial sense of church community.

Modern-day evangelicalism often emphasizes material aspects and burdens its followers with unnecessary stress instead of embracing a simpler and more authentic faith that aligns with the humility and light burden Jesus exemplified. Shawn urges believers to seek spiritual growth without the influence of grandiose structures, advocating for a focus on faith and study within modest, community-centered gatherings, while warning against the excessive hype surrounding the imminent return of Christ as it detracts from trusting in God's continual care.

False prophets were prevalent in the first century, with individuals like Theudas and an Egyptian prophet making grand promises, but failing against Roman intervention. Vespasian, who claimed messianic powers by performing healings and was later recognized as an emperor who brought peace, is linked to the biblical "beast" from Revelation 13, as his rise fulfilled prophecies and historical narratives, deceiving even the wise during tumultuous times.

Shawn explains how during the Jewish War, many Jews anticipated their Messiah would establish a new world order, leading some to believe Vespasian, who was seen as the "beast of Revelation," fulfilled this prophecy. He connects historical events and interpretations of biblical scripture, notably Matthew 24:27, to describe Jesus's expected return as similar to God's past manifestations, using lightning and storm imagery as metaphoric signs of judgment rather than a literal second coming.

In Shawn's teaching, there's a parallel drawn between the biblical description of Jesus' second coming in Revelation and historical accounts from Tacitus and Josephus, suggesting these might refer to the same event with the Roman army acting as an instrument of divine punishment towards Jerusalem. The Roman army, represented by symbols like eagles and lightning, symbolically fulfills Matthew 24:27-28, where Jesus predicts both signs and the consuming of Jerusalem, likened to eagles gathering around a carcass, emphasizing God's judgment through the Roman forces during the Jewish War.

The Bible implies that unburied bodies became food for vultures, as mentioned in Revelation 19:21, but these explanations are considered weak evidence for Jesus's return in 70 AD. Stronger support is expected from the writings of the Apostles, and listeners are encouraged to engage further with Shawn's teachings through available channels like Sunday’s Best, In His Words Spot, and support for Alathea Ministries.