Jesus’ return, often called the Second Coming, is a core belief in Christianity—not just a future event, but a foundational truth that shapes how Christians live, hope, and understand the world. Jesus Himself promised to return (John 14:3), and the entire New Testament reinforces this hope. His return will bring justice, defeat evil, and complete the story of redemption. For believers, it’s the ultimate source of encouragement and motivation to live faithfully today.
This belief isn’t optional—it’s woven into every major Christian teaching and offers real hope in a broken world. Jesus’ return means suffering isn’t final, death doesn’t win, and God will make everything right. If you’ve ever wondered what Christianity is truly about, this is a key part of the answer. Keep reading for a deeper dive into why this matters—and how it changes everything.
The return of Jesus—often called the Second Coming—isn’t just a side note in Christianity. It’s central. It’s the hope that shapes how millions of Christians live, pray, and view the world. If you’re a Christian, or just trying to understand what makes the faith tick, understanding Jesus’ return is key.
Let’s break down why this future event is so crucial and what it means for you.
1. Jesus Promised He’d Come Back
First things first—Jesus Himself said He would return. This isn’t something the early church made up or added later. It’s from Jesus’ own mouth.
“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”
— John 14:3 (ESV)
This wasn’t a metaphor or a symbol. Jesus was clear: He’s coming back, personally, visibly, and powerfully. Christians believe Him—because Jesus has kept every other promise He made. Why wouldn’t He keep this one?
2. The Return of Jesus Finishes the Story
The Bible is one big story: creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. Jesus’ return is the final chapter.
Right now, we live in the middle of the story—Jesus has come, died for our sins, risen from the dead, and returned to heaven. But evil still exists. Death still happens. Injustice still thrives.
When Jesus returns:
- Evil will be judged (Revelation 20:11–15).
- Satan will be defeated once and for all (Revelation 20:10).
- Creation will be renewed (Romans 8:21).
- Believers will be resurrected and glorified (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17).
Without Jesus’ return, the story is incomplete. Christianity isn’t just about a personal relationship with Jesus now—it’s also about His reign and justice in the future.
3. The Second Coming Gives Hope
Let’s be honest: life can be brutal. Disease, war, corruption, loss—these things don’t disappear just because you believe in God. But belief in Jesus’ return changes how you see it all.
Paul says it plainly:
“If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied.”
— 1 Corinthians 15:19 (ESV)
Why? Because if Jesus isn’t coming back to set things right, then what’s the point? But since He is, we can have real, grounded hope.
This hope means:
- Suffering has an expiration date.
- Death doesn’t get the last word.
- Justice is guaranteed—even if it’s delayed.
This isn’t wishful thinking. It’s confidence in the King who promised He’d return.
4. It Motivates How Christians Live Now
Jesus’ return isn’t just about the future. It shapes how Christians live today.
In Matthew 25, Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins waiting for the bridegroom. Five are wise, five are foolish. The wise ones were prepared when the groom finally showed up.
The message is clear: Live ready.
“Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”
— Matthew 25:13 (ESV)
What does that look like?
- Living in obedience – knowing Jesus could come back at any time changes your choices.
- Sharing your faith – if you believe Jesus is coming back, you’ll care more about others knowing Him.
- Staying faithful – life gets hard, but His return reminds us it won’t always be this way.
5. The New Testament Writers Emphasized It Constantly
The early Christians didn’t treat Jesus’ return as a niche belief. They talked about it all the time. In fact, one out of every 13 verses in the New Testament refers to Jesus’ second coming.
Paul wrote to the Thessalonians:
“For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command… and the dead in Christ will rise first.”
— 1 Thessalonians 4:16 (ESV)
He follows it with this instruction:
“Therefore encourage one another with these words.”
— 1 Thessalonians 4:18 (ESV)
This wasn’t fear-mongering. It was encouragement. The early church leaned into Jesus’ return as a way to endure persecution and live faithfully.
6. It Will Bring Justice and Judgment
A lot of people today are uncomfortable with judgment. But deep down, we all want justice. Think of every time someone gets away with murder, lies, or abuse. Don’t you want that to be made right?
Jesus’ return means that will happen.
“He has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed.”
— Acts 17:31 (NIV)
Yes, Jesus is loving. But He’s also just. And His return means every wrong will be made right.
For believers, this isn’t scary—it’s good news. Justice is coming. For those in Christ, there’s no condemnation (Romans 8:1), only reward and restoration.
7. It’s a Core Christian Belief—Not Optional
You can’t really separate Jesus’ return from the Christian faith. It’s in every major Christian creed. It’s preached throughout the New Testament.
The Apostles’ Creed, recited by Christians for centuries, says:
“He will come again to judge the living and the dead.”
Jesus’ return isn’t a fringe idea. It’s part of what it means to follow Him. If you believe in Jesus, you’re believing in the One who’s coming again.
So What Should You Do With This?
If you’re a believer:
- Stay ready. Don’t get lazy in your faith.
- Stay hopeful. Jesus will finish what He started.
- Keep sharing the gospel. Time is short.
If you’re not a believer:
- Consider the invitation. Jesus is coming again—not just as Savior, but as Judge. But right now, the door is open.
“Behold, I am coming soon. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.”
— Revelation 22:7 (ESV)
Final Thoughts
Jesus’ return isn’t a scare tactic or a fantasy—it’s the core of the Christian worldview. It’s the promise that evil won’t win, death won’t last, and God keeps His word.
Without the Second Coming, the cross is unfinished. The resurrection is incomplete. But with it, everything makes sense. Every act of obedience, every step of faith, every ounce of suffering—it all has purpose.
So whether you’re waiting patiently or just exploring what Christianity teaches, know this:
Jesus is coming back. And that changes everything.
FAQs: Why Jesus’ Return Is Central to Christian Faith
1. Why is Jesus’ return so important to Christian faith?
Jesus’ return is important because it completes the story of redemption. His Second Coming brings justice, final judgment, and the full restoration of creation—everything Christianity points toward.
2. Did Jesus really say He would return?
Yes. Jesus clearly promised His return in verses like John 14:3 and Matthew 24:30. The promise wasn’t symbolic—He said He’d come back personally and visibly.
3. What happens when Jesus returns?
When Jesus returns, He’ll defeat evil, judge the world, raise the dead, and establish His eternal kingdom. It’s when God’s justice and restoration will finally be fulfilled (Revelation 20–21).
4. How does the Second Coming give Christians hope?
The Second Coming gives hope by promising that suffering, evil, and death aren’t the end. It reminds believers that Jesus will make all things right, just as He promised.
5. Why do Christians talk about Jesus’ return so much?
Because it’s central to their faith. The New Testament mentions Jesus’ return over 300 times—roughly once every 13 verses. It’s not a side topic; it’s essential.
6. How does Jesus’ return affect daily Christian life?
It motivates Christians to live faithfully, stay hopeful, and share their faith. Knowing Jesus could return at any time inspires a life of obedience and urgency (Matthew 25:13).
7. Will everyone see Jesus when He comes back?
Yes. According to Revelation 1:7, “every eye will see Him.” His return will be public, global, and unmistakable.
8. Is Jesus’ return meant to scare people?
Not at all. For believers, it’s meant to encourage and comfort (1 Thessalonians 4:18). For non-believers, it’s a serious invitation to turn to Him while there’s still time.
9. What do Christians believe will happen to them when Jesus returns?
They believe they’ll be resurrected, given glorified bodies, and live forever with Jesus in the new heaven and new earth (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17; Revelation 21).
10. Can you be a Christian and not believe in Jesus’ return?
Belief in Jesus’ return is part of core Christian doctrine. While some may struggle with it, rejecting it altogether removes a major part of what Christianity teaches about hope, justice, and the future.
