Doomsday Preppers and the Pandemic: Biblical Perspective on COVID-19

Instead of my personal opinion, let's hear what God's own words explain. Pestilences, such as the coronavirus (COVID-19), are another element of the last days, signaling the end of the wicked system under Satan's control. They are part of the composite sign the Bible gives for the 'last days.'

Signs of the Times

Referring to Luke 21:11, Matthew 24:3–14, and 2 Timothy 3:1–5, we find prophecies describing pestilences, earthquakes, food shortages, and fearful sights. These events give us a glimpse of the time period foretold by Jesus, which marked the 'last days.'

Impact and Faith

While these prophecies are distressing, noting how they are being fulfilled actually strengthens one's faith and reinforces hope for the future. Romans 15:4 provides comfort: 'For all the things that were written beforehand were written for our instruction so that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope.'

Hope Based on Evidence

True hope is not blind; it is based on evidence learned through thorough Bible study. Romans 15:4 and Hebrews 11:1 guide us to understand that faith is the assured expectation of what is hoped for and the evident demonstration of realities that are not seen.

Comfort in Prophecies

Bible students find comfort and assurance in God's promises. Revelation 5:10, Matthew 6:9–10, Isaiah 33:24, and Isaiah 35:6 are examples of divine assurances. For instance, Isaiah 33:24 promises, 'no resident will say, “I am sick.”' Moreover, Revelation 21:3–5 envisions a future where 'no death, mourning, outcry, nor pain will be anymore.'

Perspective on the End Times

When Jesus spoke about these signs, he also mentioned the importance of hope. Matthew 24:3–14 reveals that pestilences like COVID-19 are part of the 'beginning of the birth pangs.' According to this perspective, when such events happen, it is a sign to 'stand up straight and lift up your heads, for your deliverance is getting near.'

Non-Believers and Skepticism

Not everyone shares this perspective. Some ridiculizers, as mentioned in 2 Peter 3:3, might say, 'Where is this promised presence of his? Why, from the day our forefathers fell asleep in death, all things are continuing exactly as they were from creation's beginning.' These are individuals who reject the divine promises and prophecies.

God's Endurance and Promises

However, for those who study God's word, they have faith based on the promises of God, who cannot lie. Psalms 37:9–11, 29, and 34 provide comfort. These verses reassure us that God's promises are steadfast and enduring, rooted in an everlasting life that He promised long ago (Titus 1:2).

Conclusion

When one examines the puzzle of life through this prepper and biblical lens, the pandemic and its subsequent events offer an opportunity to re-examine one's faith and hope. In the face of chaos, the promise of a new and better world remains a beacon of hope for those who diligently study the Bible.