Why is the return of Jesus anticipated in Christian belief?

The anticipation of the return of Jesus Christ is a central tenet of Christian eschatology and is deeply rooted in the theological fabric of Christianity. This expectation is not merely a peripheral belief but is woven into the very essence of Christian doctrine, shaping the faith, hope, and practice of believers across the world. To understand why the return of Jesus is so eagerly anticipated, we must delve into the scriptural foundations, theological significance, and the hope it instills in the Christian community.

The anticipation of Christ's return is primarily rooted in the promises found in the New Testament. Jesus Himself spoke of His return in various passages. In the Gospel of John, Jesus comforts His disciples with the promise of His return, saying, "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 assurance from Jesus is a cornerstone for the Christian hope in His second coming. It is a promise of reunion and eternal fellowship with Him, which is a profound source of comfort and expectation for believers.

Furthermore, the return of Jesus is depicted as a time of fulfillment and consummation of God's redemptive plan. In the Book of Acts, the angels tell the disciples, "This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven" (Acts 1:11 ESV). This statement reinforces the belief that Jesus will return physically and visibly, bringing to completion the salvation history that began with His incarnation, life, death, and resurrection. The Apostle Paul also emphasizes this in his letters, particularly in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, where he describes the Lord's return as a moment when the dead in Christ will rise, and the living will be caught up together with them, to be with the Lord forever.

Theologically, the return of Christ is seen as the culmination of God's kingdom. It is the moment when Christ will establish His reign fully and finally, bringing justice, peace, and righteousness. The Book of Revelation vividly portrays this event as the ultimate victory over evil, where Jesus is depicted as the triumphant King who defeats the forces of darkness and inaugurates a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1-4). This imagery resonates deeply with Christians who long for a world free from sin, suffering, and death. The return of Jesus is anticipated as the moment when God's will is done on earth as it is in heaven, fulfilling the prayer taught by Jesus Himself (Matthew 6:10).

In addition to the scriptural and theological motivations, the anticipation of Jesus' return is also a source of hope and encouragement for Christians facing trials and tribulations. Throughout history, the expectation of Christ's return has provided believers with a sense of purpose and perseverance. The early Christians, who faced persecution and martyrdom, found solace in the promise of Jesus' return, which assured them that their suffering was not in vain and that ultimate justice would prevail. This hope is echoed by Paul when he writes, "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us" (Romans 8:18 ESV).

Moreover, the anticipation of the second coming of Christ inspires ethical living and moral accountability. The New Testament frequently links the expectation of Jesus' return with exhortations to live holy and godly lives. In 2 Peter 3:11-12, believers are encouraged to live in holiness and godliness as they wait for the day of the Lord. This anticipation acts as a catalyst for spiritual growth, motivating Christians to align their lives with the teachings of Christ and to engage in acts of love, service, and evangelism.

The return of Jesus is also a profound expression of God's faithfulness. Throughout the Bible, God is depicted as a covenant-keeping God who fulfills His promises. The anticipation of Christ's return is a testament to the trustworthiness of God's word and His unwavering commitment to His people. It reassures believers that, just as God was faithful in sending Jesus as the Savior, He will be faithful in sending Him again as the King.

In Christian literature, the anticipation of the second coming has been a recurring theme that has inspired countless works. From the writings of the early Church Fathers to contemporary theologians, the return of Jesus has been explored and celebrated as a foundational hope that unites Christians across time and space. Theologians such as Augustine in his "City of God" and C.S. Lewis in "Mere Christianity" have articulated the significance of Christ's return as the ultimate resolution of human history and the fulfillment of God's divine purposes.

Finally, the anticipation of Jesus' return is not just a passive waiting but an active readiness. Jesus, in His teachings, often emphasized the need for vigilance and preparedness. In the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), He underscores the importance of being ready for His coming, highlighting the necessity of spiritual alertness and faithfulness. This anticipation calls Christians to live in a state of readiness, continually seeking to grow in their relationship with God and to reflect His love and truth in the world.

In conclusion, the anticipation of the return of Jesus is a multifaceted hope that is deeply embedded in Christian belief. It is grounded in the promises of Scripture, the theological understanding of God's redemptive plan, and the hope of ultimate justice and restoration. It inspires ethical living, provides comfort in suffering, and affirms the faithfulness of God. As Christians await the return of their Lord, they do so with a sense of joyful expectation, knowing that His coming will usher in the fullness of God's kingdom and the realization of His promises.