In light of the increasing number of natural disasters and global tragedies currently affecting our world, the Rev. Franklin Graham is warning that the second coming of Jesus Christ is definitely close at hand.
In a Facebook post shared on Tuesday, Graham, who is the president of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and humanitarian organization Samaritan's Purse, identified two specific events in revealing why he believes we are living in the end days: The earthquake that struck Afghanistan and southern Asia on Monday, and the car accident that occurred during the Oklahoma State parade last Saturday.
"A magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck Afghanistan and southern Asia today and authorities say the number of casualties has already exceeded 200," Graham wrote. "Pray for those suffering in the terrible aftermath and for those trying to provide rescue, relief, and medical care."
He added, "This is a very difficult and dangerous part of the world. We know from God's Word that earthquakes, famines, and wars will increase as the day of the Lord's return draws nearer."
In an earlier post, Graham urged prayers for the victims of the car accident at the Oklahoma State parade over the weekend. According to a report from Fox News, a 25-year-old woman crashed into the crowd, causing the death of four individuals, including a two-year-old boy.
"Our hearts go out to those struck by tragedy on Saturday, homecoming day, at Oklahoma State University," the 63-year-old evangelist wrote. "Join me in praying for those whose loved ones were killed and the nearly 50 people who were injured, all in a matter of seconds. Only the all powerful love of Christ is sufficient for such a moment. Nothing else. Jesus died and rose again, victorious over death, whenever and wherever it may come."
Graham frequently addresses current international crises, like the rise of terror group ISIS and the persecution of Christians, on his social media pages.
Earlier this year, he argued that the numerous world conflicts people are witnessing today reflect passages in the Bible that talk about the end times and the "distress of nations."
"The Bible tells us that in the end times there will be 'distress of nations with perplexity,'" Graham said, referring to Luke 21:25.The passage reads: "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring."
Graham added that "this is certainly the case today." He offered as examples: "The meltdown of the Middle East. The rise of anti-Semitism in Europe and here in the America. China and Russia building their military at cosmic speed. The financial crises worldwide. The political crisis in Washington."
Billy Graham's son continued: "Israel is desperate to have peace, but the Bible says 'they will seek peace but there shall be none.' There is only one ultimate, eternal solution - Jesus Christ and Him alone."
