The year 2010 has brought with it some very significant earthquakes. Around the globe countries have been ravaged, rocked, and shaken by seismic activity.
The Solomon Islands, Haiti, New Guinea, Chile, Vanuatu, Taiwan, Turkey, Japan, Indonesia, and the United States have all experienced earthquakes with magnitudes of 6.0 or greater according to the U.S. Geological Survey website.
Earthquakes are a daily occurrence. Intensity and location determines their impact. For instance, on April 4th, an earthquake occurred in Tennessee. Measuring 1.8 in magnitude and located 25 miles west of Union City its impact was not even felt. You can read more about the latest earthquake news in our region here.
As reports of seismic disturbances come in, on what seems like an almost weekly basis, a growing number of Christians view the quakes to be a "sign of the times" with the end of the age drawing near.
Based on a discourse, that Jesus had with His disciples in the book of Luke, believers feel that the current events are the fulfillment of the "great earthquakes in diverse places" spoken of in Luke 21:11.
Scientists offer another explanation.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey's Common Myths about Earthquakes page "although it may seem that we are having more earthquakes, earthquakes of magnitude 7.0 or greater have remained fairly constant throughout this century." In addition to this they claim that according to their records the number of quakes have decreased in recent years.
They explain that what is increasing is the number of earthquakes that are able to be located annually. As the number of seismograph stations around the world increase and global communications improve, earthquakes, both small and large, are better able to be located and reported. What once took days, weeks, even months to make news is now available instantly via the internet.
The increase of earthquakes is definitely a sign of the times.
Scientists continue to say that nothing unusual is occurring. We are simply seeing the advancement of technology.
Some Christians believe prophesy is being fulfilled and the return of Christ is near.
What are your feelings about earthquakes and other natural disasters that have occurred in recent days?
Comments
I think that many Christians need to read the entire chapter of Luke 11 or Matthew 24. They are taking Scripture out of context to support their beliefs.
The sky is falling.
The Bible says "but of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone."
It seems wise to me just to be ready for His coming every day.
I have to go with scientists on this one. Christians love to blow everything out of proportion including earthquakes.
You are right on with this article! Nothing has been "taken out of context." So many people have been blinded by the enemy and cannot believe what is going on. Yes, earthquakes do happen, but when can anyone remember strong earthquakes happening with such frequency. It's been one right after another for weeks, thousands dead, millions of dollars worth of distruction globally. I believe the arguement was that "we are better at reporting them" because of the internet, ok... look back at the last 5 or so years, technology has been basically the same, I'm not seeing reports of earthquakes like we are seeing now! Wake UP people and realize what is really happening! Time may be shorter than you realize!
Not sure, but one thing is for sure, time will tell! I know of a pastor who truly embraces the notion that we are near the 'end times.'
Now you are an alarming moron. What next?
We should be ready either way.
Good article.
What a bunch of garbage.
I think that both could be correct.
One can't help but wonder why you continue to read this author's articles if you have so little regard for them.
Stop the name calling, please, and express your opinion on the subject for a change.
The end of time has been talked about since the beginning of time! There’s way too much in this world to enjoy instead of dwelling on how it’ll all end. Do you think God wants us to sit around and stress out over things beyond our control? Or do you think he wants us to make the most out of the time we’re given? I’m going with the latter – life is awesome!
I have to go with @J. I've been hearing about the end of time since I was a kid. Life is too short as it is to be worrying about things beyond our control.
I'm going to enjoy this awesome day that I've been blessed with!
I can't help but wonder what the author believes. She doesn't seem to express an opinion either way. Does it mean she does not have one or is to cowardly to share it?
I personally believe that Christians are some of the greatest fear-mongers of them all.
Good to read this author's insightful and thought-provoking message has evoked much dialog among her readers. I pray scoffers will not wait until they feel the sting of death before they believe God is real and He alone saves souls from all hurt, harm, and danger. I believe God is warning all the earth to repent and turn to Him and be saved. The author gives each reader the opportunity to make their own decision. Think about it. Ask God, He'll tell you, too.
I've been thinking about this, too. Great article!
Oh here we go again with comments derogatory toward the author...every time she shares her opinion, these certain people harp on about it, and when she doesnt she also gets attacked...seems to me you cannot win either way Melinda, so you might as well go on speaking regardless of these naysayers..
My opinion, well yes there is often a lot of gloom and doom in the Church AND the world and some overfocus on it. But we cannot just ignore it and pretend its not happening either, going to the opposite extreme. its true it does seem to be occuring more often,
Another good article, keep it up!!!!
Doom & gloom sells. I refuse to buy it along with anything else so-called Christians sell.
Another large earthquake hits China and still people take no notice of wonder what is going on?
I don't get it.
Can't help but think of the song "I Wish We'd All Been Ready." So many people will be left behind just because they did not heed the signs of the times.
Hopefully the author is not one of them.
So are you dismissing the notion that they are a sign of the end or not? I can't tell.
If the earthquakes don't do it the floods will. People open your eyes. There are signs every place.
I believe we should live every day like it's our last. One day it will be, earthquakes or not.
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