For August 17, 2026
Closer Than Ever by Greg Holmes, D.MIN – Director of Missions serving 17 churches
EVEN IN PAUL’S TIME , there were those who looked for the great hope of the completion of redemption to initiate the coming of the kingdom of heaven. The early disciples themselves had been assured by angels that the Lord would return— “This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11)—and that he would take them with him, as he had promised. “I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:2-3) And, they had told others of Jesus’ teachings about end times. “Tell us, when will these things happen?” Jesus said to them, “Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, Claiming, ‘I am he.’ You must be on your guard. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened.’” (Mark 13:4-30, Matt. 24:3-34, Luke 21:8-32)