The return of Jesus is one of the most anticipated events in Christian eschatology. But what exactly will happen to the Earth when He comes back? Understanding this involves exploring Biblical prophecies, Christian doctrines, and various theological perspectives. This article aims to break down what to expect according to the Bible and Christian tradition.
The Promise of Jesus’ Return
First, let’s address the promise itself. Jesus’ return, often referred to as the Second Coming, is a cornerstone of Christian belief. Jesus Himself said in 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.”
The promise is clear: Jesus will return. But what does this mean for the Earth and its inhabitants?
Events Leading Up to His Return
Before diving into the changes the Earth will undergo, it’s important to look at the events that precede His return. The Bible outlines several key happenings:
- Signs of the Times: Matthew 24 describes various signs, such as wars, famines, earthquakes, and false prophets. These are often interpreted as indicators that the end times are approaching.
- The Great Tribulation: A period of severe hardship and persecution, detailed in Matthew 24:21 and Revelation 7:14. It’s a time of immense suffering and turmoil on Earth.
- The Rise of the Antichrist: 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 mentions a figure who opposes God and exalts himself above all that is called God. This Antichrist will deceive many and wield significant power.
- The Gospel Preached to All Nations: Matthew 24:14 emphasizes that the Gospel must be preached to all nations before the end will come. This is seen as a crucial step in the divine timeline.
The Second Coming: Jesus’ Return
When Jesus returns, it won’t be in secret. It’ll be a globally recognized event. According to Revelation 1:7, “Look, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him.”
Key Aspects of Jesus’ Return
- Visible and Unmistakable: Unlike His first coming, where He arrived humbly as a baby, His return will be powerful and visible to all. Matthew 24:27 says, “For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.”
- Sudden and Unexpected: Despite the signs, Jesus’ return will surprise many. Matthew 24:44 advises, “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him.”
- Judgment and Reward: When Jesus returns, He’ll judge the living and the dead. Matthew 25:31-46 depicts the separation of the righteous and the wicked, with each receiving their due reward or punishment.
The Earth’s Transformation
One of the most profound questions is, “What will happen to the Earth itself?” Here’s what the Bible tells us:
The Current Earth Will Be Transformed
The Earth as we know it won’t remain the same. 2 Peter 3:10 says, “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the Earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.” This verse suggests a dramatic transformation or purification process.
The Creation of a New Heaven and a New Earth
Revelation 21:1 speaks of a new creation: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.” This indicates that the current Earth will be replaced or radically renewed.
The Restoration of Peace and Harmony
The new Earth will be characterized by peace and the absence of suffering. Revelation 21:4 beautifully describes it: “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.”
The Presence of God Among His People
Perhaps the most significant change is that God will dwell with humanity. Revelation 21:3 proclaims, “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God.'”
The Millennial Reign
Another aspect often discussed is the Millennium, a thousand-year reign of Christ on Earth mentioned in Revelation 20:4-6. This period is seen as a time of peace and righteousness, where Jesus rules directly over the Earth before the final judgment.
Views on the Millennium
- Premillennialism: This view holds that Jesus will return before the Millennium, inaugurating a literal thousand-year reign.
- Postmillennialism: This perspective believes the Millennium will come gradually through the spread of the Gospel, with Jesus returning afterward.
- Amillennialism: This interpretation views the Millennium as symbolic of Christ’s reign in the hearts of believers, not a literal thousand years.
The Final Judgment
After the Millennium, the final judgment takes place. Revelation 20:11-15 describes the Great White Throne judgment, where everyone will be judged according to their deeds. This is the ultimate accountability moment, determining each person’s eternal destiny.
Eternity in the New Heaven and New Earth
The culmination of all these events leads to an eternal state in the new heaven and new earth. It’s a place of eternal joy, peace, and communion with God. Revelation 22:5 encapsulates this future: “There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign forever and ever.”
Conclusion
The return of Jesus and the events that follow are central to Christian hope. They promise an end to suffering, the renewal of creation, and eternal fellowship with God. While the exact details may vary in interpretation, the core message is clear: Jesus will return, transform the Earth, and establish a kingdom where righteousness dwells forever.
Understanding these prophecies helps us prepare for what’s to come and live with hope and purpose today.
FAQs on “What Will Happen to the Earth When Jesus Returns?”
1. What is the Second Coming of Jesus?
The Second Coming of Jesus refers to the future return of Jesus Christ to Earth, as promised in the New Testament. Unlike His first coming, when He came as a humble baby, His return will be powerful, visible to all, and marked by significant global events.
2. What are the signs that Jesus’ return is near?
Signs of Jesus’ return include natural disasters, wars, famines, the rise of false prophets, and widespread deception. The Bible also mentions the preaching of the Gospel to all nations and the appearance of the Antichrist as precursors to the end times.
3. How will the Earth change when Jesus returns?
When Jesus returns, the Earth will undergo a dramatic transformation. According to the Bible, the current Earth will be purified or renewed, and a new heaven and a new earth will be created, free from suffering, death, and pain.
4. Will everyone see Jesus when He returns?
Yes, the Bible says that every eye will see Jesus when He returns. This event will be unmistakable and visible to all, unlike His first coming, which was more private and humble.
5. What is the Millennium?
The Millennium is a prophesied thousand-year period during which Jesus will reign on Earth. There are different interpretations of this period, including Premillennialism (Jesus returns before the Millennium), Postmillennialism (the Millennium is a result of the spread of the Gospel before Jesus returns), and Amillennialism (the Millennium is symbolic and represents Christ’s reign in the hearts of believers).
6. What happens after the Millennium?
After the Millennium, there will be a final judgment where all people will be judged according to their deeds. This is known as the Great White Throne judgment and determines each person’s eternal destiny.
7. What will the new heaven and new earth be like?
The new heaven and new earth will be a place of eternal peace, joy, and fellowship with God. There will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain. God will dwell with His people, and they will live in His presence forever.
8. Will there be any suffering or evil in the new earth?
No, the new earth will be free from suffering, evil, and death. Revelation 21:4 states that God will wipe away every tear, and there will be no more pain or mourning in this renewed creation.
9. What should we do to prepare for Jesus’ return?
To prepare for Jesus’ return, we should live in accordance with His teachings, stay vigilant, and spread the Gospel. Jesus emphasized the importance of being ready and watching for the signs of His coming.
10. How can we be sure that Jesus will return?
The promise of Jesus’ return is a central tenet of Christian faith, supported by numerous passages in the New Testament. Jesus Himself promised His return, and His words are trusted by millions of believers around the world.
11. Where can I read more about Jesus’ return in the Bible?
You can read more about Jesus’ return in passages such as Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12, Revelation 19-22, and 2 Peter 3. These chapters provide detailed descriptions and teachings on the events surrounding the Second Coming.
12. What is the Great Tribulation?
The Great Tribulation is a period of severe hardship and persecution that precedes Jesus’ return. It’s described in Matthew 24:21 and Revelation 7:14 as a time of unparalleled suffering and chaos on Earth.
13. Who is the Antichrist?
The Antichrist is a figure mentioned in the New Testament who opposes God and deceives many. This individual will rise to power during the end times, as detailed in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 and Revelation 13.
14. How does the final judgment work?
During the final judgment, as described in Revelation 20:11-15, all people will be judged based on their actions. Those whose names are found in the Book of Life will enter eternal life, while others will face eternal separation from God.
15. What will the role of believers be in the new earth?
Believers will reign with Christ in the new earth, living in eternal joy and peace. Revelation 22:5 indicates that they will serve God and reign forever in His presence.
