No, this is not what the Bible means when it talks about the end of the world. Instead, the Bible paints a much different picture of the world’s end—and one that could happen at any moment.

The reason is because someday Christ will come again–and when He does, the present world system will come to an end and He will usher in a new era of peace and justice. And unlike His first coming (which we celebrated just a few days ago), His second coming will be dramatic and decisive. Jesus warned that when He comes again “All the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory” (Matthew 24:30).

But the Bible also says that someday the whole universe will be re-created and restored to what God intended it to be! Sin, like a deadly cancer, has touched everything, bringing decay and death in its wake. But someday God will bring an end to all that. The Bible says, “In keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness” (2 Peter 3:13).

Are you ready for that day? And even if it doesn’t come in your lifetime, are you ready to meet God when you die? You can be, by trusting Christ alone for your salvation and committing your life to Him. Invite Him into your life today.