How does Revelation 11:14 relate to the urgency of spreading the Gospel? The Prophetic Countdown in Revelation 11:14 “The second woe has passed. Behold, the third woe is coming quickly.” (Revelation 11:14) • Three rapid-fire judgments—first, second, and third woes—mark a divinely fixed timetable. • “Coming quickly” underscores compressed, unstoppable succession; God is not delaying. • A ticking prophetic clock reminds believers that remaining time for repentance will soon expire. Why a Swiftly Approaching Third Woe Fuels Gospel Urgency • Each woe intensifies God’s wrath; between them sits a narrow window of mercy. • Romans 2:4 shows kindness leading to repentance; Revelation’s intervals are that kindness on the clock. • Luke 13:5—“unless you repent, you too will all perish”—echoes the same limited-time offer. Echoes of Imminence Across Scripture • Revelation 10:6—“There will be no more delay.” • Revelation 22:12—“Behold, I am coming soon.” • 1 Corinthians 7:29—“The time is short.” • John 9:4—“Night is coming when no one can work.” • Each passage knits together an unmistakable theme: God’s plan rushes forward; gospel labor must keep pace. Gospel Mission Mandated by Love and Judgment • 2 Corinthians 5:14–15—Christ’s love compels us; those rescued urge rescue for others. • Ezekiel 33:8—failure to warn brings blood-guilt; speaking out delivers both listener and messenger. • Mark 16:15—“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” – The command is not open-ended; Revelation shows its shelf-life. Practical Ways to Redeem the Limited Time • Prioritize conversations: keep short accounts with neighbors, coworkers, family. • Integrate testimony into normal routines—meals, commutes, digital interactions. • Support and engage in missionary sending while windows remain open. • Leverage local church discipleship so new believers can multiply quickly. • Pray for boldness and clarity (Colossians 4:3–4) because doors won’t stay open indefinitely. Living Alert While Hope Remains • Titus 2:13 calls believers to look for “the blessed hope”; urgency coexists with confidence. • 1 Peter 3:15—be ready to give an answer; readiness assumes opportunities could vanish fast. • Jude 23—“snatch others out of the fire”; imagery parallels approaching third woe. Conclusion: Urgency Anchored in Certainty God’s prophetic clock is literal, precise, and mercifully revealed. Revelation 11:14’s terse warning ignites serious, joyful haste: spread the gospel now, because the next woe—and final judgment—rushes toward a world that still can be saved. |