If Jesus comes back, it’s a moment that’ll change everything. For Christians worldwide, it’s the event they’ve awaited for centuries. But what does the Bible say about this? How will it affect you, your family, and the world? Let’s dive into this profound topic and explore what Scripture reveals about Jesus’ second coming.
The Promise of Jesus’ Return
Jesus’ return is a cornerstone of Christian belief. It’s mentioned numerous times in the New Testament. Jesus Himself said, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also” (John 14:3, NKJV). This promise brings hope and anticipation to millions of believers.
Signs of His Coming
Before diving into what happens when Jesus comes back, it’s crucial to understand the signs preceding His return. According to the Bible, several indicators will signal that His return is near:
- Wars and Rumors of Wars: Jesus mentioned in Matthew 24:6 that wars and conflicts would be widespread.
- Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, famines, and other natural calamities will increase (Matthew 24:7).
- Moral Decline: Society will see a decline in moral values (2 Timothy 3:1-5).
- False Prophets: Many will claim to be the Messiah or speak in His name, misleading many (Matthew 24:24).
These signs are like birth pangs, indicating that the end is approaching, but we won’t know the exact time.
The Moment of His Return
When Jesus comes back, it won’t be a quiet affair. The Bible describes it as a glorious, unmistakable event. In Matthew 24:30, it says, “Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”
Here’s what’ll happen:
- Visibility: Jesus’ return will be visible to everyone. Unlike His first coming, where He was born in a humble manger, His second coming will be with power and glory.
- Trumpet Sound: A loud trumpet will announce His arrival (1 Thessalonians 4:16). It’s like a celestial announcement that the King is here.
- Angelic Hosts: Jesus will be accompanied by angels, further emphasizing the grandeur of this event (Matthew 25:31).
The Gathering of Believers
One of the first actions Jesus will take upon His return is gathering His followers. 1 Thessalonians 4:17 explains, “Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.”
This gathering, often referred to as the Rapture, means:
- Reunion: Believers who have died will be resurrected and united with those still alive. It’s a grand reunion in the sky.
- Transformation: Those alive will be transformed, receiving new, imperishable bodies (1 Corinthians 15:51-52).
Judgment of the Nations
Following His return, Jesus will judge the nations. This judgment is not just a punishment but a setting right of all things. In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus describes separating people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. This passage highlights:
- Righteous and Unrighteous: Jesus will distinguish between those who lived righteously and those who did not.
- Eternal Consequences: The righteous will enter eternal life, while the unrighteous will face eternal separation from God.
Establishment of His Kingdom
Jesus’ return marks the beginning of His reign on Earth. Revelation 20:4-6 speaks of a thousand-year reign, known as the Millennium, where Christ will rule with His saints. This period is characterized by:
- Peace and Justice: Jesus will bring true justice and peace, ending all conflict and suffering.
- Restoration: The earth will be restored, and creation will be freed from its current state of decay (Romans 8:21).
New Heaven and New Earth
After the Millennium, the Bible describes a final transformation: the creation of a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1). This signifies:
- End of Sin: Sin, death, and suffering will be no more. It’s a complete renewal where God dwells with humanity.
- Eternal Joy: Revelation 21:4 assures us, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
How Should You Prepare?
Knowing what happens if Jesus comes back, how should you live? Here are a few practical steps:
- Stay Faithful: Live a life that reflects Christ’s teachings. Stay true to your faith, even in challenging times.
- Be Watchful: Be aware of the signs and stay spiritually alert. Jesus encouraged His followers to watch and be ready (Matthew 24:42).
- Share the Good News: Use this knowledge to share the hope of Jesus’ return with others. It’s a message of hope and redemption.
Conclusion
Jesus’ return is a pivotal event that’ll reshape the world as we know it. It’s a time of hope for believers, marking the end of suffering and the beginning of eternal joy. While no one knows the exact time of His return, the Bible provides clear signs and instructions on how to prepare. By staying faithful, watchful, and sharing His message, you’re ready for the incredible moment when Jesus comes back.
As you reflect on this, remember the words of Revelation 22:20: “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”
FAQs: What Happens if Jesus Comes Back?
1. Why is the return of Jesus so significant for Christians?
The return of Jesus, often referred to as the Second Coming, is significant because it fulfills biblical prophecy and represents the ultimate hope for Christians. It’s the moment when Jesus will establish His eternal kingdom, bringing justice, peace, and the end of suffering. For believers, it’s a time of joy and reunion with Christ.
2. What are the signs that Jesus’ return is near?
According to the Bible, several signs will indicate that Jesus’ return is near:
- Wars and Rumors of Wars: Increased global conflicts and wars.
- Natural Disasters: More frequent and intense earthquakes, famines, and other natural calamities.
- Moral Decline: A noticeable decline in societal values and morality.
- False Prophets: Many will falsely claim to be the Messiah or speak in His name.
These signs are outlined in passages like Matthew 24 and 2 Timothy 3:1-5.
3. Will everyone see Jesus when He comes back?
Yes, the Bible states that Jesus’ return will be visible to everyone. Matthew 24:30 mentions that “all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” This indicates a universal and unmistakable event.
4. What is the Rapture, and how does it relate to Jesus’ return?
The Rapture is a term used to describe the event when believers are taken up to meet Jesus in the air upon His return. As described in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, the dead in Christ will rise first, and then those who are alive will be caught up with them to be with the Lord forever. It’s seen as a moment of great reunion and transformation for believers.
5. How will Jesus judge the nations upon His return?
Jesus will judge the nations based on their actions and faith. Matthew 25:31-46 describes this process as separating the righteous (the “sheep”) from the unrighteous (the “goats”). The righteous will enter into eternal life, while the unrighteous will face eternal separation from God. This judgment emphasizes the importance of living a life in accordance with Jesus’ teachings.
6. What happens during the Millennium?
The Millennium refers to a thousand-year reign of Christ on Earth, as mentioned in Revelation 20:4-6. During this period, Jesus will rule with His saints, bringing about a time of peace, justice, and restoration. It’s a time when the earth will experience unprecedented harmony and righteousness.
7. What is the New Heaven and New Earth?
After the Millennium, the Bible speaks of a final transformation where the current heaven and earth will be replaced with a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1). This signifies the complete renewal of creation, where God will dwell with humanity, and there will be no more sin, suffering, or death. It’s the beginning of eternal joy and perfection.
8. How can I prepare for Jesus’ return?
To prepare for Jesus’ return, you can:
- Stay Faithful: Live according to Christ’s teachings and maintain your faith.
- Be Watchful: Stay spiritually alert and aware of the signs of His coming.
- Share the Gospel: Spread the message of Jesus and His love to others.
These steps help you live in a way that’s ready for His return and share the hope with those around you.
9. Can we know the exact time of Jesus’ return?
No, the exact time of Jesus’ return is unknown. Jesus Himself said in Matthew 24:36, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” This emphasizes the importance of being prepared at all times.
10. What should I do if I want to learn more about Jesus’ return?
If you want to learn more about Jesus’ return, you can:
- Read the Bible: Focus on passages like Matthew 24, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, and Revelation 19-22.
- Attend Church: Engage with a local church community that teaches about the Second Coming.
- Seek Guidance: Talk to pastors or knowledgeable believers who can help explain these concepts further.
Learning more about Jesus’ return helps deepen your understanding and strengthens your faith.
If you have any more questions or need additional insights, feel free to ask. This is a fascinating and vital topic for all believers!
