WORLD AND END TIMES
God’s Creation and Redemption
The Greek word for “world” is ‘kosmos.’ God created the world and declared it good. However, sin has complicated life and created a separation from Heaven. Every person born into this world inherits the consequences of the Original Sin committed by Adam and Eve. Under the influence of worldly desires, people often commit actions opposed to the values of Heaven.
Despite this, God did not abandon humanity. He loved the world so much that He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem it (Jn 3:16). Without Jesus’ redemptive mission, humanity would be destined for eternal separation from God. Those who reject Jesus remain in their sins and inherit eternal death.
The End of the World: Catholic Teachings
The Catholic Church teaches that at the end of time, our bodies and souls will be reunited. The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes that all who are in their graves will hear God’s voice and come forth, either to the resurrection of life or to the resurrection of condemnation (Jn 5:28-29). The Church views the end times as a period of hope and redemption, not of fear. We are encouraged to live fully, pursuing our goals with God as our priority (CCC 1042-1050).
The Book of Revelation
The Book of Revelation, the final book of the Bible, addresses the end times and the Second Coming of Christ through apocalyptic literature. It uses rich symbolism to convey spiritual themes about Christ’s authority and ultimate victory over evil. Revelation focuses on eschatological topics, including death, judgment, and the final destiny of souls. It assures believers that at the end of time, God’s salvation and triumph will bring an end to the struggles caused by sin and evil (Rev 21:1-5).
The Resurrection of the Body
Catholic doctrine maintains deep respect for both the soul and the body. It teaches that at the end of time, our bodies and souls will reunite. According to the Catechism, those in their graves will hear God’s voice and rise, either to eternal life or eternal damnation (CCC 997).
The Blessed Hope
The Church encourages believers to anticipate Christ’s Second Coming with hope. Unlike some interpretations that emphasize fear, Catholic teaching highlights Christ’s promise to “make all things new” (Rev 21:5). While the specifics of the Second Coming are unknown, Christians can trust in Jesus’ promise: “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Mt 28:20).
Solidarity and the End Times
The virtue of solidarity is vital in our efforts toward justice and peace. Pope Paul VI famously said, “If you want peace, work for justice.” The Gospel calls Christians to be peacemakers and to promote peace in a world fraught with violence and conflict (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops).
Living Courageously in the End Times
For the past 2,000 years, Christians have lived in the “end times.” The realities of death, judgment, heaven, hell, sin, and evil are ever-present. Yet, the end is already known: life triumphs over death, and all things will be restored in Christ. In God’s plan, nothing is wasted – not even death. Death’s sting is overcome by Christ, transforming tragedy into hope and healing (1 Cor 15:54-57).
REFLECTION
As Christians, we should not fear the end of the world but rather look forward to it with hope. The moment of judgment – whether at our individual death or the Final Judgment—is pivotal. If we live only for earthly things, the prospect of the end is daunting. However, Jesus teaches us to store treasures in heaven, not on earth (Mt 6:19-21).
We should strive to be like the wise virgins who awaited the Bridegroom with lit lamps (Mt 25:1-13). We are called to share the gospel, prepare for Christ’s return, and help others join God’s kingdom. Eschatology, the study of the end times, is closely linked to evangelization. St. Peter explained that Jesus’ return is delayed to allow more people to come to faith. As the Second Vatican Council stated, “missionary activity tends toward eschatological fullness.” Jesus said, “This gospel of the kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, as a testimony to all nations; and then the end will come” (Mt 24:14).
This Advent season is a time to reflect on our readiness to meet Jesus. Are we watchful and hopeful, or does the thought fill us with dread? Let us prepare our hearts and help others do the same, anticipating Christ’s coming at Christmas, at our death, and at the end of time.