The promise of Jesus’ Second Coming is a foundational aspect of Christian belief, filled with hope, purpose, and anticipation. It is rooted in biblical prophecy, with Jesus’ return bringing the fulfillment of redemption, the establishment of His eternal kingdom, and ultimate justice for all. The Second Coming is not just about the future; it deeply impacts how Christians live today, encouraging them to live with purpose, share the gospel, endure trials with hope, and pursue holiness.
While the timing of Jesus’ return is unknown, this promise serves as a reminder to stay faithful, diligent in current responsibilities, and ready for His return at any moment. Dive deeper into the significance of the Second Coming and discover how this powerful promise can shape your faith and actions in the full article.
The promise of Jesus’ Second Coming is a cornerstone of Christian belief. It’s a topic that sparks curiosity, hope, and sometimes confusion. Let’s delve into why Jesus made this promise, what it means, and how it impacts you and your faith journey.
Understanding the Second Coming
The Second Coming refers to Jesus’ return to earth after His ascension to heaven. This promise is found throughout the New Testament. In John 14:3, Jesus says, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” This statement is a direct promise of His return.
Reasons for the Second Coming
1. Fulfillment of Prophecy
Jesus’ Second Coming fulfills numerous biblical prophecies. The Old and New Testaments contain references to the Messiah’s return. For instance, Daniel 7:13-14 describes a vision of “one like a son of man” coming with the clouds of heaven. This vision aligns with the New Testament’s portrayal of Jesus’ return.
2. Completion of Redemption
Jesus’ first coming brought salvation through His death and resurrection. However, the full realization of redemption—restoring creation to its intended glory—awaits His return. Romans 8:21 states, “the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.” This completion is a key reason for the Second Coming.
3. Establishment of His Kingdom
Jesus promised to establish His eternal kingdom on earth. In Revelation 21:1-4, John describes a new heaven and a new earth where God dwells with His people. This vision includes the eradication of death, mourning, crying, and pain. Jesus’ return is essential to bring this kingdom to fruition.
4. Judgment and Justice
Another significant reason for the Second Coming is to judge the living and the dead. Acts 17:31 tells us, “For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed.” Jesus’ return will bring ultimate justice, righting wrongs, and ensuring righteousness prevails.
5. Hope and Encouragement for Believers
The promise of Jesus’ return offers hope and encouragement. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 provides comfort, saying, “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven… and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive… will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.” This assurance helps believers endure trials, knowing a glorious future awaits.
How the Second Coming Impacts Your Faith
Living with Expectation
Knowing Jesus will return encourages you to live with a sense of expectation and urgency. Matthew 24:42 advises, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” This expectation shapes your actions and priorities, prompting you to live faithfully and purposefully.
Encouragement to Share the Gospel
The promise of Jesus’ return motivates you to share the gospel. Matthew 28:19-20, known as the Great Commission, instructs believers to “go and make disciples of all nations.” Understanding the importance of Jesus’ return amplifies the urgency of this mission, as you want others to be ready for His coming.
Strength in Trials
Life’s difficulties can be overwhelming, but the promise of Jesus’ return provides strength and perspective. Romans 8:18 offers comfort, saying, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” This future hope helps you endure present hardships with faith.
Pursuit of Holiness
Knowing Jesus will return also encourages you to pursue holiness. 1 John 3:2-3 says, “But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him… All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.” This hope inspires you to live a life that reflects Jesus’ purity and love.
Misunderstandings About the Second Coming
Timing Speculation
One common misunderstanding is trying to predict the exact time of Jesus’ return. 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.” It’s important to focus on living faithfully rather than speculating about dates.
Ignoring Present Responsibilities
Another mistake is neglecting current responsibilities in anticipation of Jesus’ return. In Luke 19:13, Jesus tells a parable where a nobleman instructs his servants to “occupy till I come.” This means you should be diligent in your duties and responsibilities, faithfully serving until He returns.
Conclusion
Jesus promised the Second Coming to fulfill prophecy, complete redemption, establish His kingdom, administer justice, and provide hope. This promise impacts your faith by encouraging a life of expectation, evangelism, resilience, and holiness. While it’s natural to be curious about the timing, your focus should be on living a life that honors Jesus, ready for His return whenever it happens.
Remember, the Second Coming isn’t just a future event—it’s a powerful motivator for how you live today.
FAQs About Jesus’ Second Coming
1. What is the Second Coming of Jesus?
The Second Coming refers to Jesus Christ’s return to earth after His ascension to heaven. It’s a key Christian belief that Jesus will return to fulfill biblical prophecies, complete redemption, establish His kingdom, administer judgment, and bring hope to believers.
2. Why did Jesus promise to return?
Jesus promised to return for several reasons:
- To fulfill biblical prophecies.
- To complete the process of redemption and restore creation.
- To establish His eternal kingdom on earth.
- To administer judgment and justice.
- To provide hope and encouragement to believers.
3. Where in the Bible does it mention Jesus’ Second Coming?
The Second Coming is mentioned in various parts of the Bible, including:
- John 14:3
- Acts 1:11
- 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
- Revelation 21:1-4
- Matthew 24:42
4. What will happen during the Second Coming?
During the Second Coming, Jesus will return in glory, judge the living and the dead, and establish His eternal kingdom. Believers will be united with Him, and creation will be restored to its intended glory.
5. When will the Second Coming occur?
The exact timing of the Second Coming is unknown. Jesus 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.” Christians are encouraged to live faithfully and be prepared at all times.
6. How should I prepare for Jesus’ return?
To prepare for Jesus’ return, you should:
- Live with a sense of expectation and urgency.
- Share the gospel with others.
- Draw strength from the hope of His return during trials.
- Pursue holiness and live a life that reflects Jesus’ purity and love.
7. What are some common misunderstandings about the Second Coming?
Common misunderstandings include:
- Speculating about the exact timing of Jesus’ return, which the Bible says is unknown.
- Neglecting current responsibilities and duties in anticipation of the Second Coming. Believers are encouraged to live diligently and faithfully until Jesus returns.
8. What impact does the Second Coming have on my faith?
The promise of Jesus’ return impacts your faith by:
- Encouraging you to live with expectation and purpose.
- Motivating you to share the gospel with urgency.
- Providing strength and perspective during life’s difficulties.
- Inspiring you to pursue holiness and reflect Jesus’ love in your life.
9. How does the Second Coming fulfill biblical prophecy?
The Second Coming fulfills numerous prophecies found in both the Old and New Testaments. For example, Daniel 7:13-14 and various New Testament passages describe the Messiah’s return and the establishment of His kingdom.
10. What is the significance of the Second Coming for believers?
The Second Coming holds significant importance for believers as it:
- Confirms the truth of Jesus’ promises.
- Completes the process of salvation and redemption.
- Brings ultimate justice and righteousness.
- Provides hope and assurance of eternal life with Jesus.
