The return of Jesus is a major topic in the Bible since it is expected in the last days. In fact, the Scriptures affirm that it will be the definitive event that will inaugurate the new heavens and the new earth. This will be the climax of the story of salvation in which God will put things right and deliver his promises to his people. The Bible presents some very clear and consistent indications about the return of Jesus.
The primary source for understanding what the Bible says about Jesus return is the New Testament. Jesus himself spoke on multiple occasions about his own second coming. In the passages in the four Gospels where he discusses his coming, Jesus presents himself as a coming king and judge. According to the Gospels, Jesus states clearly that his coming will be sudden and unexpected, will be accompanied by cosmic signs, and will bring about final judgment. Additionally, in the New Testament, the apostle Paul wrote extensively about the coming of Christ. While reaffirming many of the key details, the apostle Paul gives a more personal emphasis to the return of Jesus and stresses the fact that believers must be prepared for his arrival.
Beyond the passages describing the return of Jesus, the New Testament also affirms that Jesus already possesses divine authority and that there is no higher power. This is highly relevant in terms of Jesus’ return because it implies that Jesus is capable of exercising his power autonomously and without interference. The New Testament also emphasizes that Jesus will return as a conquering king who will establish his kingdom for eternity. In addition to providing doctrinal insight, the New Testament also provides guidance for living a life that is consistent with Jesus’ coming. In particular, Jesus and the apostles encourage their followers to live in a state of constant readiness and anticipation of his return.
Christian theologians have different views on the return of Jesus. Some view the return of Jesus as a literal, physical event. This perspective holds that Jesus will physically come to earth, in a visible form, to inaugurate the new heavens and the new earth. This view is supported by biblical passages, such as Acts 1:10-11. Others view the return of Jesus in spiritual or metaphorical terms. These interpretations usually emphasize the idea that Jesus will come to powerfully show himself in the lives of those who serve him, and to bring justice and mercy to all who appeal to him. This view is consistent with Jesus’ teachings in the Gospels and Paul’s teachings in the epistles.
An understanding of what the Bible says about Jesus’ return must be contextualized for today. As mentioned previously, Jesus encouraged his followers to live as if his return was imminent. Today, however, Jesus’ return is a distant prospect and believers must have an understanding of what Jesus’ return will actually look like. In order to contextualize this teaching in the modern age, believers must focus on the spiritual aspects of Jesus’ return rather than the literal aspects. This will involve prioritizing a life of faith, service, and generous hospitality in anticipation of Jesus’ return.
The spiritual preparation
In order to be prepared for Jesus’ return, believers must foster a spiritual connection to him. This is because Jesus will come to judge and reward those who have committed their lives to him. To do this, believers must focus on deepening their relationship with Jesus through prayer and reading his word. Additionally, believers need to look to the Holy Spirit for guidance on how to live in a manner that pleases the Lord and prepares them for the day of his return. The Holy Spirit imparts wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in the lives of those who are seeking greater connection to Jesus. Through the leading of the Holy Spirit, believers can make the necessary spiritual preparation for Jesus’ return.
The physical preparation
Practically speaking, believers should understand that Jesus’ return may happen at any time. This understanding should push believers to live a life of generosity and service. Believers should be looking to make a practical difference in the world through acts of loving-kindness, bearing each other’s burdens, and working together in unity. Believers should also be generous in their resource management, committing money, time, and other resources to God’s work and his kingdom.
The relational preparation
The Bible is clear that Jesus’ return is ultimately about bringing justice and mercy to the world. In light of this, believers should be looking to build strong relationships with other people. This should include serving those who are different from oneself, forgiving and loving those who have hurt us, and looking for common ground with those with whom one disagrees. Building relationships with those in need is a key part of preparing for Jesus’ return.
The ministry preparation
The Bible presents Jesus’ return as being particularly focused on the ministries that have served his people faithfully. In light of this, believers should be looking to faithfully serve others and bring about God’s kingdom in their own lives, congregations, cities, and nations. Believers should be looking for ways to assist those in need and serve God’s people in the long-term. This can include evangelism, teaching, and leading people closer to Jesus in a way that reflects his character and prepares us for his return.
