Jesus clearly outlined specific signs to look for before His return, and they’re more relevant now than ever. From false messiahs and global conflict to natural disasters, persecution, and the Gospel reaching every nation, these aren’t random events—they’re prophetic milestones. Jesus didn’t give these signs to create fear, but to wake us up and help us live prepared. Understanding these signals helps you stay grounded, avoid deception, and recognize the times we’re living in.
Whether you’re new to these teachings or need a fresh perspective, it’s crucial to know what the Bible actually says. Jesus’ return won’t be a surprise to those who are watching for Him. So if you want clarity, confidence, and biblical truth in a chaotic world, keep reading. This deep dive will help you recognize the signs and live with purpose.
If you’ve ever wondered how you’ll know when Jesus is coming back, you’re not alone. Jesus’ return is one of the most anticipated events in the Bible. In fact, He didn’t leave us in the dark—He gave very specific signs to watch for.
This article breaks down those signs, directly from Scripture, and explains what they mean for you today.
Jesus’ Own Words About the End Times
The clearest explanation from Jesus about the signs of His return comes from what’s called the Olivet Discourse, found in:
- Matthew 24
- Mark 13
- Luke 21
Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives when His disciples asked Him:
“Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3)
He gave a detailed answer. Let’s walk through the major signs He listed.
1. Widespread Deception and False Messiahs
“For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray.” – Matthew 24:5
Jesus said that many false teachers and imposters would show up claiming divine authority. This isn’t about just one or two cult leaders—it’s about a global rise in deception.
You’ll See:
- Religious leaders claiming to be the chosen one
- New-age spiritual movements mixing truth with lies
- Christians being pressured to water down biblical truth
Takeaway: Know your Bible. If you don’t know the real Jesus, you’ll be more likely to fall for a fake one.
2. Wars and Rumors of Wars
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars… but the end is not yet.” – Matthew 24:6
Conflict has always existed. But Jesus warned of a sharp increase in global tension before His return.
Watch For:
- International wars (country vs. country)
- Civil wars and internal conflicts
- Rising threats (nuclear weapons, terrorism)
But notice this: Jesus says not to panic yet. Wars alone aren’t the final sign—they’re just the beginning.
3. Famines, Pestilences, and Earthquakes
“There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.” – Matthew 24:7
(Luke adds “pestilences” in Luke 21:11)
These are what Jesus calls the “beginning of birth pains.” Like contractions before birth, these disasters increase in frequency and intensity as the end approaches.
Today’s Reality:
- Global food shortages
- Pandemics like COVID-19
- Record-breaking earthquakes and natural disasters
Takeaway: These aren’t random. They’re signs pointing to something bigger.
4. Persecution of Christians
“You will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake.” – Matthew 24:9
Before Jesus returns, believers will face increasing hostility.
What This Looks Like:
- Laws that go against Christian beliefs
- Christians jailed or killed for their faith (especially outside the West)
- Social pressure to stay silent about biblical truth
Jesus was clear—standing for Him will cost something. But He also promised, “The one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13)
5. Widespread Apostasy (Falling Away)
“Many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another.” – Matthew 24:10
A heartbreaking sign. As pressure increases, many who once followed Christ will turn away.
Signs of Apostasy:
- Churches abandoning Scripture for cultural acceptance
- Christian leaders publicly renouncing their faith
- Division and betrayal even among believers
This isn’t about outsiders attacking the faith—it’s about insiders walking away from it.
6. The Gospel Preached to All Nations
“This gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” – Matthew 24:14
This is a major sign.
The return of Jesus won’t happen until the message of salvation has reached every people group.
Progress So Far:
- Bible translated into over 3,600 languages
- Online evangelism reaching closed countries
- Missionaries working in unreached areas
We’re getting close, but the work isn’t finished.
7. The Abomination of Desolation
“When you see the abomination of desolation… then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.” – Matthew 24:15
Jesus refers to a prophecy in Daniel (Daniel 9:27) about a future event where someone will desecrate the temple.
Possibilities:
- A rebuilt temple in Jerusalem
- A world leader demanding worship
- Some major event that shocks the Jewish people
This is a pivotal event that marks the beginning of great tribulation.
8. Unprecedented Tribulation
“For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world.” – Matthew 24:21
This period will be worse than any time in history. Jesus said if those days weren’t cut short, no one would survive.
What Happens:
- Global chaos and suffering
- Judgment and natural disasters
- Intense persecution of believers
But God limits it—for the sake of the elect.
9. Signs in the Heavens
“Immediately after the tribulation… the sun will be darkened, the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven.” – Matthew 24:29
Cosmic disturbances will shake the world. These aren’t metaphorical—they’re literal, supernatural signs that everyone will see.
10. The Visible Return of Jesus
“They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” – Matthew 24:30
Jesus’ return won’t be secret. Everyone will see Him.
Key Details:
- He comes in the clouds
- With power and glory
- Angels gather His followers (Matthew 24:31)
It’ll be unmistakable. You won’t need someone to tell you “He’s over here” or “Look over there.” You’ll see it with your own eyes.
So, What Should You Do?
Jesus gave these signs for a reason—not to scare us, but to prepare us.
3 Practical Steps:
- Stay awake.
Jesus said, “Stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.” (Matthew 24:42) - Know the Word.
The more you know Scripture, the less likely you’ll be deceived. - Live ready.
Don’t wait for things to “get serious.” Follow Jesus now.
Final Thoughts
Jesus made it crystal clear—He is coming back. And He gave us the signs to watch for:
- Deception
- Wars
- Natural disasters
- Persecution
- A global Gospel movement
- Cosmic signs
- His visible return
These aren’t vague hints. They’re like mile markers on a highway. And every year, we’re moving closer.
If you’re a follower of Jesus, be encouraged—your hope is secure. If you’re not, now’s the time to take Him seriously.
“When these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” – Luke 21:28
🔹 FAQs – What Signs Did Jesus Give Before His Return?
1. What signs did Jesus give before His return?
Jesus listed several signs including deception by false messiahs, wars and rumors of wars, famines, pestilences, earthquakes, persecution of believers, global Gospel preaching, and cosmic disturbances—all pointing to His return.
2. Where in the Bible does Jesus talk about signs of His return?
The most detailed account is found in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21. This section is known as the Olivet Discourse, where Jesus explains what to expect before the end.
3. Are we seeing the signs of Jesus’ return today?
Yes, many of the signs Jesus mentioned—like global unrest, disease outbreaks, Christian persecution, and widespread deception—are increasingly visible in our world today.
4. What is the “abomination of desolation”?
It refers to a prophecy from Daniel that Jesus mentioned. It’s a future event where something or someone will desecrate a holy place, signaling the beginning of the great tribulation.
5. What did Jesus say about false teachers and messiahs?
Jesus warned that many would come claiming to be Christ or speaking in His name, and they would deceive many. He emphasized the need to stay alert and rooted in truth (Matthew 24:4-5).
6. Will Jesus’ return be visible to everyone?
Yes. Jesus said, “They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds with power and great glory” (Matthew 24:30). His return won’t be secret or hidden.
7. What role does the Gospel play in the end times?
Jesus said the end won’t come until the Gospel has been preached to all nations (Matthew 24:14). Global evangelism is a key milestone before His return.
8. What’s the “great tribulation” Jesus mentioned?
It’s a time of intense global suffering, persecution, and judgment unlike anything before. Jesus said if those days weren’t shortened, no one would survive (Matthew 24:21-22).
9. How should Christians respond to these signs?
Stay alert, stay in the Word, and live faithfully. Jesus said to be ready at all times because no one knows the exact day or hour of His return (Matthew 24:42-44).
10. Is knowing these signs really important?
Absolutely. Jesus gave these signs so believers wouldn’t be caught off guard. Knowing them helps you prepare spiritually and live with urgency and purpose.
