If you’ve ever wondered about Jesus’ return, you’re not alone. Christians have been anticipating this event for centuries. The question of when Jesus will come back has sparked countless discussions, debates, and even predictions. In this article, we’ll explore what the Bible says about the Second Coming, how we can interpret the signs of the times, and what it means for you and me today.
What Does the Bible Say About Jesus’ Return?
The New Testament is filled with references to Jesus’ return. Here’s a look at some key passages:
- Matthew 24:30-31: “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. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.”
- Acts 1:11: “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? 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.”
- Revelation 22:12: “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.”
These verses highlight a few things: Jesus’ return will be visible and undeniable, it’ll be a moment of gathering and judgment, and it’s something believers are urged to anticipate.
Interpreting the Signs of the Times
Throughout history, people have tried to predict when Jesus would come back. However, 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.”
So, if no one knows the exact time, why bother looking for signs? Jesus encourages us to stay alert and be ready. Here are some signs the Bible mentions:
- Wars and Rumors of Wars: Jesus said in Matthew 24:6-7, “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars… Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.”
- Natural Disasters: There will be “famines and earthquakes in various places” (Matthew 24:7).
- Persecution of Believers: “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me” (Matthew 24:9).
- False Prophets and Messiahs: Jesus warned in Matthew 24:24, “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”
These signs serve as reminders that the world is not our permanent home and that Jesus’ return is imminent, though the exact timing remains unknown.
Are We Living in the Last Days?
Many people look at current events and wonder if we’re living in the last days. While it’s easy to see the world’s troubles and think the end is near, we must be cautious about making assumptions.
In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Paul describes the last days as times of great difficulty, with people being “lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive…” This sounds a lot like today, doesn’t it? But it’s crucial to remember that many generations before us have also faced tumultuous times and believed they were in the last days.
What Should We Do While We Wait?
Knowing Jesus could come back at any moment should affect how we live. Here’s how you can prepare:
- Live a Life of Faith: Keep your faith strong. In Luke 18:8, Jesus asks, “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” Living a life of faith means trusting God daily and following His teachings.
- Stay Alert and Ready: Jesus advised, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (Matthew 24:42). This doesn’t mean living in fear but being spiritually ready.
- Spread the Good News: Jesus’ final instruction to his disciples was to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Sharing your faith and helping others find their way to Jesus is a powerful way to prepare for His return.
- Love Others: In John 13:34, Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” This command is timeless and crucial as we await His return.
Misconceptions and Warnings
There are several misconceptions about Jesus’ return that we should address:
- Date Setting: Many have tried to set dates for Jesus’ return, but all have failed. Remember, Jesus said no one knows the day or the hour.
- Ignoring Responsibilities: Some people might think, “Why bother planning for the future if Jesus is coming soon?” However, Jesus calls us to be faithful in our daily lives and responsibilities. In Luke 19:13, He tells the parable of the ten minas and instructs his servants to “occupy till I come.” This means we should continue our work and duties until He returns.
- Fear and Anxiety: The idea of Jesus’ return isn’t meant to instill fear but to bring hope. In John 14:1-3, Jesus comforts his disciples, saying, “Do not let your hearts be troubled… I will come back and take you to be with me.”
Conclusion
While we can’t know the exact timing of Jesus’ return, we can be sure that it’s an event that’ll happen. The Bible provides clear guidance on how we should live as we wait. By staying faithful, alert, and loving, we can be ready for that glorious day. Whether Jesus comes back in our lifetime or not, the way we live today is what truly matters.
So, live with hope, share your faith, and love others deeply. After all, being prepared for Jesus’ return means living a life that reflects His teachings every day.
FAQs: Is Jesus Going to Come Back Soon?
1. What does the Bible say about Jesus’ return?
The Bible is clear that Jesus will return. Key passages include Matthew 24:30-31, Acts 1:11, and Revelation 22:12. These scriptures describe Jesus coming back visibly and with great power, to gather believers and bring judgment.
2. Can we know the exact time of Jesus’ return?
No, according to Matthew 24:36, no one knows the exact day or hour of Jesus’ return—only the Father knows. This teaches us to always be prepared and live faithfully.
3. What are some signs that Jesus’ return is near?
The Bible mentions several signs in Matthew 24, including:
- Wars and rumors of wars
- Natural disasters like famines and earthquakes
- Persecution of believers
- The rise of false prophets and messiahs
These signs remind us to stay spiritually alert.
4. Are we currently living in the last days?
It’s hard to say definitively. Many believe we are because of the global turmoil and moral decline described in 2 Timothy 3:1-5. However, similar conditions have been present in many periods of history.
5. How should we live while we wait for Jesus’ return?
- Live a Life of Faith: Maintain your faith and trust in God daily.
- Stay Alert and Ready: Be spiritually prepared at all times.
- Spread the Good News: Share your faith and make disciples.
- Love Others: Follow Jesus’ command to love one another as He has loved us.
6. Is it okay to set dates for Jesus’ return?
No, setting dates is contrary to Jesus’ teaching that no one knows the day or hour of His return. It’s more important to live in readiness and faith rather than trying to predict the exact time.
7. Should I change my life plans if Jesus is coming soon?
Not necessarily. Jesus instructs us to continue with our responsibilities and duties. Luke 19:13 tells us to “occupy till I come,” meaning we should keep working and living faithfully.
8. How can I avoid fear and anxiety about the end times?
Focus on the hope and promise of Jesus’ return. In John 14:1-3, Jesus comforts us by saying He will come back and take us to be with Him. Trust in His words and live a life that reflects His love and teachings.
9. Why is Jesus’ return important for believers?
Jesus’ return signifies the fulfillment of God’s promises, the ultimate victory over sin and death, and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. For believers, it’s a source of hope and motivation to live according to His teachings.
10. What should I do if I’m not ready for Jesus’ return?
If you feel unprepared, start by strengthening your relationship with God. Seek forgiveness, commit to following Jesus, and live according to His teachings. Join a community of believers for support and encouragement in your faith journey.
11. Will everyone see Jesus when He returns?
Yes, the Bible describes Jesus’ return as a visible event. Matthew 24:30-31 says that all people on earth will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds with power and great glory.
12. What’s the most important thing to remember about Jesus’ return?
The most important thing is to live a life that reflects Jesus’ teachings. Stay faithful, love others, and be ready at all times. His return should inspire hope and a commitment to living a life that honors Him.
If you have more questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out to your local church community or explore more biblical teachings on this topic.
