1. When will the end of the world occur?
It is not known with certainty. Only certain signs that anticipate the end are known, though not with great precision:
- The Gospel will be preached throughout the entire world (though the exact extent of this is unknown).
- There will be a severe trial for the Church (there have always been trials, but this one will be especially grave).
- There will be turmoil and upheaval in nature.
2. What will happen at the end of the world?
Several future events are revealed:
- The passing away of the present world will take place, giving way to a new heaven and a new earth.
- Bodies will rise from the dead to be reunited with their souls (resurrection).
- Jesus Christ will return in glory, and the final judgment will take place.
3. How do we know these things will happen?
4. What does the Bible say?
Several biblical texts speak of the end of the world. Let us consider several passages from the Gospel of Saint Matthew (similar texts appear in Saint Mark and Saint Luke):
The exact hour is unknown and it will arrive unexpectedly (Mt 24:36–41)
«This Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world» (Mt 24:14)
Great tribulations for the Church (Mt 24:3–26)
Upheaval and signs in nature (Mt 24:29)
Resurrection of the dead (Mt 22:31; 1 Cor 15:35–54)
Jesus Christ will return in glory and judge all mankind (Mt 25:31–46)
5. What about the conversion of the Jewish people?
In Romans 11:26–27, Saint Paul speaks of a future moment when "all Israel will be saved," yet this affirmation is not necessarily tied immediately to the end of the world. This conversion will certainly take place, but the final consummation of the world may occur long afterwards.