If the 'end-times' stuff is a distraction, I don't think such a large portion of Scripture would have been dedicated to discussing it.
I agree that there's a lot in there, but it comes down to interpretation. Let's take The Revelation of Jesus Christ. Some people think it's all about the end of the world. I happen to think it's all about the Kingdom of God, and how it advances into the world.
Jesus specifically does address the end of the world in Matthew 24 & 25. My favorite verse is Matt 24:14- "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come."
I take the 'Gospel of the Kingdom' to mean the physical manifestation of signs and wonders that accompanies and confirms the proclaimed Gospel. Paul talks about preaching it in the demonstration of the Spirit and power.
We need more of that!