The question of when Jesus will return has been a topic of fascination, speculation, and sometimes even controversy within the Christian community for centuries. As a non-denominational Christian pastor, it is important to approach this question with both humility and a commitment to Scripture. The Bible provides us with some insights, but it also leaves us with a sense of mystery that encourages faith and vigilance.
First and foremost, it is crucial to acknowledge that the exact timing of Jesus' return is unknown and unknowable to us. Jesus Himself made this clear in His teachings. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus states, "But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father" (Matthew 24:36, NIV). This verse underscores the divine secrecy surrounding the timing of the Second Coming. It emphasizes that even Jesus, during His earthly ministry, did not possess this knowledge. Therefore, any attempt to pinpoint the exact date of His return is not only futile but contrary to biblical teaching.
However, while the precise timing remains a divine mystery, the Bible does provide us with signs and indicators that can help us understand the season of His return. Jesus spoke extensively about these signs in what is often referred to as the Olivet Discourse, found in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21. These passages describe various events and conditions that will precede His return, including wars, famines, earthquakes, persecution of believers, and the spread of the Gospel to all nations.
One of the key signs mentioned by Jesus is the "abomination of desolation" spoken of by the prophet Daniel (Matthew 24:15). This event, which involves a desecration of the holy place, is seen by many scholars as a pivotal moment in the end-times timeline. Additionally, Jesus spoke of a great tribulation, a period of intense suffering and persecution, which will be followed by cosmic disturbances such as the darkening of the sun and moon and the falling of stars from the sky (Matthew 24:21-29).
In addition to the signs described by Jesus, the Apostle Paul also provides insights into the events leading up to the Second Coming. In his letters to the Thessalonians, Paul speaks of a "man of lawlessness" who will be revealed before the return of Christ (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4). This figure, often identified with the Antichrist, will exalt himself above all that is called God and will set himself up in God's temple, proclaiming himself to be God. Paul also speaks of a great apostasy, or falling away from the faith, that will occur in the last days.
While these signs and events provide us with a framework for understanding the general season of Christ's return, they are not meant to be used as a checklist for predicting the exact date. Instead, they serve as reminders to remain vigilant, faithful, and prepared. Jesus emphasized the importance of readiness in several parables, such as the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) and the Parable of the Faithful and Wise Servant (Matthew 24:45-51). These parables highlight the need for spiritual preparedness and the danger of complacency.
The early Christians lived with a sense of imminent expectation of Christ's return, a mindset that is still relevant for us today. The Apostle Peter addressed the issue of the apparent delay in Christ's return in his second epistle, reminding believers that "with the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day" (2 Peter 3:8, NIV). He explained that the delay is an expression of God's patience, giving people time to repent and come to salvation (2 Peter 3:9).
Throughout church history, there have been numerous attempts to predict the date of Jesus' return, often resulting in disappointment and disillusionment. These attempts serve as cautionary tales, reminding us to trust in God's timing rather than our own calculations. The focus should not be on predicting the date but on living faithfully in the present, knowing that Christ's return is certain and could happen at any moment.
The Book of Revelation, the final book of the New Testament, provides a vivid and symbolic portrayal of the events surrounding the end times and the return of Christ. While its imagery can be challenging to interpret, its central message is clear: Jesus is coming back to establish His kingdom, judge the living and the dead, and usher in a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells (Revelation 21:1-4).
In light of this, how should we live as we await Jesus' return? The Apostle Paul offers practical guidance in his letters. He encourages believers to live holy and godly lives, to be self-controlled and alert, and to put on the "armor of light" (Romans 13:11-14). Paul also emphasizes the importance of encouraging and building up one another, as we look forward to the day of the Lord (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
Furthermore, the anticipation of Christ's return should inspire us to engage in mission and evangelism. Jesus' Great Commission, to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20), remains our mandate until He returns. The spread of the Gospel to all nations is one of the signs that Jesus mentioned would precede His return (Matthew 24:14). Therefore, our task is to be faithful witnesses, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with a world in need of hope and salvation.
In summary, while the exact timing of Jesus' return is unknown and unknowable, the Bible provides us with signs and indicators that point to the general season of His return. These signs serve as reminders to remain vigilant, faithful, and prepared. Rather than focusing on predicting the date, we are called to live holy and godly lives, engage in mission and evangelism, and encourage one another as we await the glorious return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
As we navigate the uncertainties of life and the challenges of the present age, let us hold fast to the promise of Christ's return and the hope of eternal life. The words of the Apostle John in the Book of Revelation capture the heart of our anticipation: "He who testifies to these things says, 'Yes, I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus" (Revelation 22:20, NIV).
