Have you ever wondered what exactly needs to happen before the Savior returns to the earth? There is a lot of information out there, but finding a straightforward, factual breakdown can sometimes be difficult. The embedded document below explores the signs of the second coming based on David J. Ridges‘ superb book, 100 Signs of the Times. This guide is wonderfully factual and entirely avoids exaggeration, making it a perfect resource for your personal study. It outlines 21 specific prophecies that are yet to be fulfilled.
What Are the Major Signs of the Second Coming?
This document details several massive shifts that will occur across the globe, involving both the earth itself and the gathering of its people. Understanding these events helps us prepare with faith rather than fear.
Global and Geological Changes
One fascinating truth is that Mother Earth herself will rejoice. The scriptures teach that the earth is not an inanimate object; it will actually die and be quickened again. There will also be intense physical changes to the planet, such as a great earthquake like men have never experienced before. Nature will show signs of turmoil, including a great hailstorm sent to destroy the crops of the earth. Perhaps most incredibly, there is a prophecy indicating that the earth’s land masses will come back together as one single land mass, returning to how it was in the days of Peleg.
The Gathering of Israel
The return of the Lost Ten Tribes is another highly anticipated event. These tribes, who were led away into the north by the Assyrians around 721 BC, will eventually return. They will bring their rich treasures and their own scriptures to Zion to receive blessings from Ephraim. Furthermore, after facing tremendous trials, large numbers of Jewish people will accept the true gospel. When Christ physically saves Jerusalem, they will ask about the wounds in His hands, and their long-standing unbelief will depart.
The Building of Holy Places
Before the Savior’s return, the holy city of New Jerusalem will be built in Independence, Missouri. This city will serve as the political capital during the Millennium. Meanwhile, a new temple will be constructed in the old city of Jerusalem. Water will eventually flow from under this Jerusalem temple, flowing eastward to completely heal the waters of the Dead Sea. Interestingly, the gospel will also flourish in Egypt, and a temple will be built there as well.
Major Conflicts and Key Gatherings
The document also details the Battle of Armageddon, which will involve all nations of the earth gathered against Jerusalem in a massive siege. During this terrifying 42-month period, two latter-day prophets will protect the city with miracles. Eventually, they will be killed, but they will be gloriously resurrected three and a half days later. When Jerusalem is on the brink of destruction, Christ will set foot on the Mount of Olives. The mountain will split in two, creating a valley where the people can flee for safety.
Prior to the glorious return, a grand, private sacrament meeting will take place at Adam-ondi-Ahman in Missouri. Here, Adam will meet with his righteous posterity and the Savior. Those who have held priesthood keys throughout all ages will be in attendance to return their keys directly to Christ.
The Final Signs of the Second Coming
As the actual day draws closer, a grand sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven. While we do not know exactly what this sign will be, we are promised that all people will see it together. We are also told to prepare by gathering “extra oil” for our lamps through righteous living, scripture study, and temple attendance.
When the Savior finally arrives, the righteous who are alive, along with the righteous deceased, will be taken up to meet Him in the clouds . Sadly, the wicked will be burned at His coming, utterly destroyed by His brightness. At that moment, there will be a full end of all nations as worldly governments cease to exist, and every eye shall see Christ when He returns in glory to rule and reign.
Please dive into the embedded document below to read the full details of these 21 remaining prophecies!
