When it comes to the teachings of Jesus, the concept of His second coming is one of the most profound and discussed themes in the New Testament. But just how often did Jesus talk about His return? Let’s dive into the scriptures and explore the times Jesus mentioned His second coming, what He said, and what it means for us today.
Understanding the Second Coming
Before we count the instances, it’s important to grasp what the second coming signifies. The second coming refers to Jesus Christ’s future return to Earth after His ascension to heaven. This event is central to Christian eschatology, the study of end times, and it promises a culmination of history where Jesus will judge the living and the dead, establish His kingdom, and bring ultimate justice and restoration.
Key Passages Where Jesus Speaks of His Return
1. The Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21)
The most detailed teaching on the second coming is found in the Olivet Discourse, named for its location on the Mount of Olives. This discourse is recorded in:
- Matthew 24:3-31
- Mark 13:3-27
- Luke 21:7-28
In these passages, Jesus responds to His disciples’ questions about the end of the age and the signs of His coming. He describes a series of events, including wars, famines, earthquakes, and persecutions, leading up to His return.
Key Verses:
- Matthew 24:30: “Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.”
- Mark 13:26: “At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory.”
- Luke 21:27: “At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.”
2. The Parables of Vigilance
Jesus used parables to illustrate the need for readiness for His return. These stories emphasize being watchful and prepared, as His coming will be sudden and unexpected.
- The Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13): This parable highlights the importance of being prepared, as the arrival of the bridegroom (symbolizing Jesus) will catch some off guard.
- The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30): Here, Jesus teaches about the accountability each person will have when He returns, urging faithfulness and stewardship.
- The Parable of the Faithful Servant (Luke 12:35-48): This parable underscores the need to be continually ready, as the master’s (Jesus’) return could happen at any moment.
3. The Last Supper Discourse (John 14-17)
During the Last Supper, Jesus comforts His disciples with promises about His return and the preparations He’s making for them in heaven.
Key Verses:
- John 14:3: “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
- John 16:16: “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.”
4. Post-Resurrection Appearances
After His resurrection, Jesus reaffirmed His promise to return. These appearances provided His disciples with a preview of the glorified Christ who would one day come again.
Key Verses:
- Acts 1:11: As Jesus ascended, two angels told the disciples, “This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”
How Many Times Did Jesus Specifically Mention His Return?
Counting the exact number of times Jesus mentioned His second coming can be a bit tricky due to the overlap in the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) and the different ways He alluded to it. However, directly and indirectly, Jesus referenced His return numerous times. Here’s a breakdown:
- Direct Mentions in the Olivet Discourse: Approximately 3-4 times across the gospels.
- Parables Alluding to His Return: At least 3 major parables (Ten Virgins, Talents, and Faithful Servant).
- Statements in the Last Supper Discourse: At least 2 clear promises (John 14 and John 16).
- Post-Resurrection Confirmation: Explicitly stated in Acts 1:11.
In total, there are around 10 to 12 distinct references or teachings by Jesus about His second coming, not counting the repeated accounts across different gospels.
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
Jesus’ teachings about His second coming are not just for theological debate; they have practical implications for how we live our lives today. Here’s what they mean for you:
1. Live Expectantly
Jesus emphasized the unexpected nature of His return. “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (Matthew 24:42). Living expectantly means staying spiritually vigilant and ready.
2. Be Faithful Stewards
In the parable of the talents, Jesus highlighted the importance of using our resources and opportunities wisely. We’re called to be faithful in whatever God has entrusted to us, knowing we’ll give an account when He returns.
3. Comfort in His Promise
Jesus’ promise to return is a source of great comfort. He reassures us that no matter how chaotic the world becomes, He is coming back to set things right. “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me” (John 14:1).
4. Spread the Good News
Knowing that Jesus will return motivates us to share the gospel with others. “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14). We have a mission to tell others about the hope found in Christ.
Conclusion
Jesus spoke about His second coming numerous times, and each mention carries weight for how we should live today. Whether it’s through direct statements, parables, or promises, Jesus made it clear that His return is certain and imminent. As you reflect on these teachings, let them inspire you to live a life of readiness, faithfulness, and hope.
In the words of the Apostle Paul, “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:11-13).
FAQs About Jesus’ Second Coming
1. What is the second coming of Jesus?
Answer: The second coming of Jesus refers to His promised return to Earth after His ascension to heaven. This event, central to Christian belief, is when Jesus will come back to judge the living and the dead, establish His eternal kingdom, and bring final justice and restoration to the world.
2. How many times did Jesus specifically mention His second coming?
Answer: Jesus directly and indirectly referenced His second coming numerous times. Across different contexts, including parables, discourses, and post-resurrection statements, there are about 10 to 12 distinct mentions of His return.
3. Where can I find the teachings of Jesus about His second coming in the Bible?
Answer: Jesus’ teachings on His second coming are primarily found in:
- The Olivet Discourse: Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21
- The Parables of Vigilance: Matthew 25 and Luke 12
- The Last Supper Discourse: John 14-17
- Post-Resurrection Appearances: Acts 1
4. What are the main signs of Jesus’ second coming?
Answer: In the Olivet Discourse, Jesus mentioned several signs that would precede His return, including:
- Natural disasters like earthquakes and famines.
- Wars and rumors of wars.
- Persecution of believers.
- The spread of the gospel to all nations.
- False prophets and messiahs.
5. Why is the second coming of Jesus important?
Answer: The second coming is crucial because it represents the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to return and bring justice and restoration. It offers hope for believers, motivates ethical living, encourages spreading the gospel, and reassures us of God’s ultimate plan for humanity and the world.
6. How should we prepare for Jesus’ return?
Answer: Preparing for Jesus’ return involves:
- Living a life of faithfulness and readiness.
- Being good stewards of the resources and responsibilities God has given us.
- Sharing the message of Jesus with others.
- Maintaining hope and comfort in the promise of His return, regardless of life’s challenges.
7. What did Jesus say about the timing of His second coming?
Answer: Jesus made it clear that the exact time of His return is unknown. He said, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Matthew 24:36). He emphasized the need to be always prepared and vigilant because it will come unexpectedly.
8. How do the parables relate to Jesus’ second coming?
Answer: The parables of the Ten Virgins, the Talents, and the Faithful Servant teach about readiness, stewardship, and vigilance. They illustrate the importance of being prepared for Jesus’ return and living in a way that reflects faithful service and anticipation.
9. What did Jesus promise regarding His return during the Last Supper?
Answer: During the Last Supper, Jesus reassured His disciples by promising to return and take them to be with Him. In John 14:3, He said, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
10. How does the promise of Jesus’ return provide comfort to believers?
Answer: The promise of Jesus’ return provides comfort by assuring believers that, despite current suffering and chaos, there’s a future hope of His righteous reign and ultimate justice. It reminds us that Jesus is preparing a place for us and will come back to bring us to Himself, providing eternal peace and joy.
11. How should I live in light of Jesus’ second coming?
Answer: In light of Jesus’ second coming, live expectantly and be spiritually vigilant. Engage in faithful stewardship of your life and resources, share the gospel actively, and find comfort in the hope of His return. Focus on living a godly life that aligns with Jesus’ teachings.
12. Will everyone see Jesus when He returns?
Answer: Yes, Jesus stated that His return will be visible to all. In Matthew 24:30, He says, “Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.”
13. What should we do if we find these teachings about the second coming challenging to understand?
Answer: If you find these teachings challenging, it’s helpful to:
- Pray for understanding and guidance.
- Study the Bible and seek insights from trusted teachers or pastors.
- Join a study group to explore these topics with others.
- Reflect on the overarching message of hope and readiness that Jesus emphasizes.
