The return of Jesus Christ is one of the most anticipated events in Christian eschatology, often referred to as the Second Coming. The Bible provides multiple reasons for Jesus' return, each deeply rooted in God's redemptive plan for humanity and the world. To understand why Jesus is returning, we must examine several key themes and passages in Scripture that illuminate His purposes.
First and foremost, Jesus is returning to fulfill God's promises and prophecies. Throughout the Old and New Testaments, there are numerous prophecies concerning the Messiah's return. For instance, in the Old Testament, the prophet Daniel speaks of a time when the "Son of Man" will come with the clouds of heaven to establish an everlasting dominion (Daniel 7:13-14). Similarly, in the New Testament, Jesus Himself promises His return in passages like John 14:3, where He says, "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."
Another significant reason for Jesus' return is to bring about the final judgment. The Bible teaches that Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead. This is explicitly stated in passages such as Matthew 25:31-46, where Jesus describes the separation of the righteous from the unrighteous, likening it to a shepherd separating sheep from goats. This final judgment is not merely punitive but serves to establish justice and righteousness, ensuring that evil is ultimately dealt with and that God's holiness is upheld.
In addition to judgment, Jesus' return is also about the consummation of the Kingdom of God. While Jesus inaugurated the Kingdom during His earthly ministry, its full realization awaits His return. In Revelation 11:15, we read, "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever." This signifies the ultimate victory of God's rule over all creation, a theme that resonates throughout the book of Revelation. The return of Christ will bring about the renewal of all things, including the new heavens and the new earth (Revelation 21:1-5), where God's presence will dwell with humanity in a restored and perfect relationship.
Moreover, Jesus is returning to gather His people to Himself. This aspect of His return is often referred to as the "rapture," where believers will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). This gathering is not just a physical relocation but a profound spiritual union, fulfilling Jesus' prayer in John 17:24, "Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world." This reunion underscores the relational aspect of God's plan, emphasizing His desire for intimate fellowship with His people.
Furthermore, Jesus' return is a demonstration of His ultimate victory over Satan, sin, and death. The cross and resurrection were decisive victories, but the Second Coming will be the final and complete triumph. In Revelation 19:11-21, we see a vivid depiction of Christ as a conquering King, riding on a white horse, defeating the forces of evil. This victory will culminate in the casting of Satan into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10), signifying the end of all rebellion against God and the establishment of eternal peace and righteousness.
The return of Jesus also serves as a source of hope and encouragement for believers. In Titus 2:13, Paul describes it as "our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ." This hope sustains Christians through trials and tribulations, reminding them that their present sufferings are temporary and that a glorious future awaits them. The anticipation of Jesus' return fosters perseverance and faithfulness, as believers are called to live in a manner worthy of their calling, knowing that their labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Additionally, Jesus' return will bring about the restoration of all creation. The Apostle Paul speaks of this in Romans 8:19-22, where he describes creation itself as eagerly awaiting the revealing of the sons of God. The return of Christ will liberate creation from its bondage to decay and bring it into the freedom and glory of the children of God. This cosmic renewal is part of God's comprehensive plan to restore everything that was marred by sin, reflecting His original intent for a harmonious and flourishing creation.
The return of Jesus is also a manifestation of God's faithfulness and love. Throughout Scripture, God is portrayed as a covenant-keeping God who fulfills His promises. The Second Coming is the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive promises, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His people and His creation. In 2 Peter 3:9, we read, "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance." This verse highlights God's patience and desire for all to come to repentance, underscoring the redemptive purpose behind the delay of Christ's return.
Lastly, Jesus is returning to establish eternal communion with His bride, the Church. The imagery of a wedding is prevalent in the New Testament, where the Church is described as the bride of Christ. In Ephesians 5:25-27, Paul speaks of Christ's sacrificial love for the Church, aiming to present her as a radiant bride, without stain or wrinkle. The culmination of this marital imagery is found in Revelation 19:7-9, where the marriage supper of the Lamb is celebrated. This eternal union between Christ and His Church signifies the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where believers will enjoy unbroken fellowship with their Savior forever.
In summary, the return of Jesus is a multifaceted event with profound theological significance. It fulfills God's promises and prophecies, brings about final judgment, consummates the Kingdom of God, gathers believers to Himself, demonstrates His victory over evil, provides hope and encouragement, restores all creation, manifests God's faithfulness and love, and establishes eternal communion with His Church. Each of these reasons reflects the depth and breadth of God's redemptive plan, revealing His character and purposes in a way that calls believers to live in hopeful anticipation and faithful obedience. As we await His return, we are reminded of the words of Revelation 22:20, "He who testifies to these things says, 'Surely I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!"
