While we may not grasp every detail, Scripture assures us that these five events will transpire upon Jesus’ return.
The concept of the Second Coming describes the anticipated return of Jesus to Earth after His ascension, during which He will vanquish Satan, eliminate evil, and establish His thousand-year reign. This event is vividly depicted in Revelation 19:11-16, illustrating Jesus as a righteous and formidable warrior. Christians believe in His return as the fulfillment of His promises and the prophecies about Him, with Matthew 24:30 portraying the awe-inspiring scene of His arrival with power and great glory. Though the specifics of Jesus’ return are not fully disclosed, Scripture provides key insights into this pivotal event. Here are five crucial facts you should know:
- Jesus Will Return from Heaven: During His time on Earth, Jesus spoke of His departure to heaven with a purpose—to receive a kingdom from His Father and return with the authority to govern the world. As foretold in Matthew 25:31, Jesus will not return alone but will be accompanied by countless angels, emphasizing the grandeur of His second coming.
- The Second Coming Is Distinct from the Rapture: Often confused with the rapture, the Second Coming specifically refers to when Jesus comes back to defeat evil and establish His rule, as opposed to the rapture, where Jesus retrieves the church from the earth. The rapture, detailed in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 1 Corinthians 15:50-54, involves believers being lifted to meet the Lord, serving as a divine rescue. In contrast, the Second Coming concludes with Jesus’ triumphant defeat of evil forces.
- The Exact Time Is Unknown: Numerous attempts to predict the timing of Christ’s return have all failed, fulfilling Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:36 that no one knows the day or hour. However, signs will indicate His return is imminent, offering believers signs of what is to come, as described in Matthew 24.
- It Will Be Visible and Audible to All: The return of Jesus will be an undeniable event, visible and audible across the globe. Scriptural references like Matthew 24:31 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16 describe the spectacular auditory signals that will accompany His arrival, ensuring that His return is recognized universally.
- A Return Marked by Majesty and Power: Unlike His humble first arrival on Earth, Jesus’ second coming will be marked by undeniable power and glory. This triumphant return will be heralded by angels and observed by all, fulfilling the prophecies of Him reigning as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, starkly contrasting with His initial humble circumstances.
These key points underline the significant aspects of Jesus’ prophesied return, illustrating a transformative event filled with power, glory, and divine fulfillment.
