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When we think about Jesus’ return, it’s easy to get caught up in dramatic images and apocalyptic scenes. But what is Jesus really looking for when He comes back? This question has intrigued Christians for centuries and it’s more practical and down-to-earth than you might think. Let’s dive into what the Bible says about Jesus’ expectations upon His return and how it applies to us today.
Jesus’ Return: The Promise
First, let’s establish the promise of Jesus’ return. The Bible is clear on this point. In John 14:3, Jesus 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.” This promise offers comfort and hope, but it also sets a foundation for understanding what He’s looking for when He returns.
Faithfulness and Readiness
Faithful Servants
One of the main things Jesus is looking for is faithfulness. He told several parables emphasizing this, like the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30). In this story, a master goes on a journey and entrusts his servants with his property. When he returns, he rewards the servants who used their talents wisely and chastises the one who did nothing.
The message here is clear: Jesus expects us to use our time, talents, and resources wisely. He’s looking for people who are active in their faith, not just passive observers. Being faithful means living out your beliefs daily, showing love, and being diligent in what God has given you to do.
Being Ready
Another critical aspect is readiness. Jesus frequently warned His followers to be prepared for His return. In Matthew 24:44, He said, “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”
Readiness isn’t about having a perfect life or knowing the exact time of His return. It’s about living in a way that aligns with His teachings and being spiritually alert. Think of it as being like the wise virgins in the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), who were prepared with oil in their lamps when the bridegroom arrived.
Love and Compassion
Loving One Another
Jesus emphasized love as the greatest commandment. In John 13:34-35, He told His disciples, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”
When He returns, Jesus is looking for those who embody His love. This means showing genuine compassion, forgiveness, and kindness to others. It’s not just about loving those who are easy to love but extending grace even to those who might be challenging.
Caring for the Least
Jesus’ teachings consistently pointed to caring for the marginalized and needy. In Matthew 25:31-46, He describes the final judgment, where the righteous are those who fed the hungry, gave drink to the thirsty, welcomed strangers, clothed the naked, and visited the sick and imprisoned. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
This passage highlights that Jesus is looking for a heart of service and compassion. He’s interested in how we treat the least among us, reflecting His own love and mercy.
Obedience to His Commands
Following Jesus’ Teachings
Obedience is another key aspect of what Jesus expects. In Matthew 7:21, Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
It’s not enough to merely acknowledge Jesus as Lord; we need to follow His teachings and live according to God’s will. This includes adhering to moral principles, practicing forgiveness, and spreading the gospel.
Bearing Good Fruit
In the Parable of the Good Tree (Luke 6:43-45), Jesus teaches that a good tree bears good fruit, and a bad tree bears bad fruit. This is a metaphor for our lives. He’s looking for the fruits of the Spirit in us—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Bearing good fruit means that our actions reflect our faith. It’s about living in a way that others can see Christ in us.
Perseverance in Faith
Enduring to the End
Jesus also values perseverance. In Matthew 24:13, He said, “But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Life’s challenges and trials test our faith, and Jesus is looking for those who remain steadfast and unwavering in their commitment to Him.
Overcoming Obstacles
Revelation 2:10 encourages us, “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” Perseverance is about continuing to trust and follow Jesus, even when things get tough. It’s about overcoming obstacles and staying true to your faith journey.
Living with Hope
Finally, Jesus wants us to live with hope. Titus 2:13 describes Christians as “waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” This hope isn’t just a wishful thought; it’s a confident expectation of His return and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Hope That Transforms
Living with this hope should transform how we live now. It motivates us to live righteously, make a difference in the world, and look forward to Jesus’ return with joy and anticipation.
Conclusion
So, what is Jesus looking for when He comes back? He’s seeking faithfulness, readiness, love, compassion, obedience, good fruit, perseverance, and hope. These qualities aren’t about perfection but about a genuine and growing relationship with Him.
As you reflect on these principles, think about how you can live them out in your daily life. By doing so, you’ll be ready to meet Jesus when He returns and hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21).
Embrace these teachings, and let them guide you in preparing for that glorious day. Remember, it’s not just about the destination but how you live the journey.
FAQs: What Is Jesus Looking For When He Comes Back?
1. What does the Bible say about Jesus’ return?
The Bible clearly states that Jesus will return. In John 14:3, Jesus promises, “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.” This promise offers hope and sets the stage for understanding what He expects from us upon His return.
2. What does it mean to be a faithful servant?
Being a faithful servant means actively using the gifts, talents, and opportunities God has given you to further His kingdom. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus praises those who diligently use their resources and reprimands those who do nothing. Faithfulness involves living out your faith daily and contributing positively to God’s work.
3. How can I be ready for Jesus’ return?
Readiness involves living according to Jesus’ teachings and being spiritually vigilant. In Matthew 24:44, Jesus warns, “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” This readiness is about aligning your life with God’s will and staying prepared for His unexpected return.
4. Why is love and compassion so important to Jesus?
Jesus emphasized love as the core of His teachings. He commands us to “love one another” in John 13:34-35 and identifies acts of kindness and compassion toward others as acts done unto Him in Matthew 25:31-46. Loving others and caring for those in need reflect Jesus’ own love and mercy.
5. What does obedience to Jesus’ commands look like?
Obedience means following Jesus’ teachings and living according to God’s principles. In Matthew 7:21, Jesus stresses that only those who do the will of His Father will enter the kingdom of heaven. This involves moral living, forgiving others, and actively spreading the gospel.
6. What is meant by “bearing good fruit”?
Bearing good fruit refers to producing positive, Christ-like qualities and actions in your life. According to Galatians 5:22-23, these include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. A life that bears good fruit is one where others can see the influence of Christ.
7. Why is perseverance important in the Christian faith?
Perseverance is crucial because it demonstrates steadfastness and commitment to Jesus, especially during trials. In Matthew 24:13, Jesus says, “But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Faithful endurance through life’s challenges is highly valued and rewarded by Jesus.
8. What role does hope play in anticipating Jesus’ return?
Hope is the confident expectation of Jesus’ return and the fulfillment of God’s promises. Titus 2:13 describes this as “waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.” This hope should inspire us to live righteous lives and look forward to Jesus’ return with joy.
9. How can I apply these teachings in my daily life?
You can apply these teachings by:
- Being faithful: Use your gifts and opportunities wisely.
- Staying ready: Live in alignment with God’s will and be spiritually alert.
- Showing love: Treat others with genuine compassion and kindness.
- Obeying Jesus: Follow His teachings and live a life that reflects His values.
- Bearing fruit: Cultivate positive, Christ-like qualities in your actions.
- Persevering: Stay committed to your faith, even in difficult times.
- Living with hope: Let the promise of Jesus’ return guide your daily choices.
10. What should I do if I struggle with these expectations?
If you struggle with these expectations, remember that perfection isn’t required. Jesus values a genuine relationship with you and sees your efforts. Pray for guidance, seek support from fellow believers, and focus on making small, consistent steps towards living out these principles. God’s grace is sufficient, and He meets us where we are.
11. How can I help others prepare for Jesus’ return?
You can help others by sharing the teachings of Jesus, modeling a Christ-like life, and encouraging them in their faith journey. Acts of kindness, open discussions about faith, and providing support during challenges can also help others understand and prepare for Jesus’ return.
12. Where can I learn more about Jesus’ return and what He expects?
To learn more, study the Bible, especially the Gospels and books like Matthew, John, and Revelation. Engage in Bible study groups, listen to sermons, read Christian literature, and seek guidance from church leaders. These resources can provide deeper insights into Jesus’ return and His expectations.
These FAQs aim to clarify what Jesus is looking for upon His return and how we can live in a way that aligns with His teachings. If you have more questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to seek answers through prayer, study, and community.
