Many people have attempted to predict the future and guess when Jesus will return to this earth. So, when will Jesus return? Is there a way to know the time and day of His return?
Why Do We Believe Jesus Is Going to Return?
To consider when Jesus will return, we begin with what happened before His birth and how obedience to God by Mary and Joseph played an important role. Even before the miraculous birth of Jesus, God was already working His plan. The Bible shares that the angel Gabriel told Mary she would conceive and give birth to a son. Mary was comforted by the angel when she questioned her ability and worthiness (Luke 1:30).
Gabriel shared that the child was to be called Jesus and he would be great and called the Son of the Most High.
The Bible tells us that Joseph, who would be Mary’s husband, worried after learning about the pregnancy. Joseph did not want to disgrace Mary, and he considered divorce. God already knew Joseph would be concerned about the pregnancy and birth. God had other plans. So he sent an angel to tell Joseph how the baby was concieved by the Holy Spirit, and to name him Jesus (Matthew 1:18-25).
Mary and Joseph obeyed God. They did not know all of the sufferings their son would endure. The choice to listen and obey showed their love and dedication to God. All of the events led to God’s plan for His Son Jesus. God knew what life held for His Son. God knew Jesus would leave this earth at a particular time, and God knows that Jesus will return at the appointed time.
The time came when a Roman census required that Mary and Joseph travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem to be registered. While in Bethlehem, Jesus was born, and Mary wrapped her son in cloths and placed him in a manger. This account is found in the book of Luke.
As Jesus grew, His wisdom increased. He was found in the temple at age 12, impressing the priests with his knowledge. As he entered his ministry, his life focused on sharing His Father’s love. Prayer, miracles, healings, bringing others to know God and showing forgiveness, compassion, and love were part of every day.
Then, the time came for accusations against Him. The betrayal, arrest, and judgment were given. Jesus was then led to the cross to be crucified. Along with two other men, Jesus was led to the area called Golgotha (“the skull”). As Jesus endured pain and anguish en route to the cross, even while He was nailed to the wood, He continued to show His Father’s love (Luke 23:34).
The Bible tells us Jesus was crucified, killed, and buried. Scripture also tells Jesus rose on the third day. All of Jesus’ actions on earth, from his conception to his death to his resurrection, showed God’s love for His creations (John 3:16).
Before Jesus died, he told his disciples that he was going somewhere and would return to them, to take them to the Father (John 14:3). This is one of several times where he alluded not only to his resurrection but to his second coming. Jesus’ conception, birth, life, and death were also all part of a plan which leads to His return. As Christians, we prepare and wait for that time.
What Does the Bible Say about Jesus’ Return?
The Bible gives some information about the return of Jesus. The way Jesus will return is described in these verses.
“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:25-28 NIV)
More about the return of Jesus is found in the New Testament letters. “So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him” (Hebrews 9:28 NIV).
The apostle Paul talks about the resurrection of the dead when Jesus returns. Paul describes the scene when the change will come—how everything will change “in the twinkling of an eye” and Jesus’ followers throughout history will be resurrected in new bodies (1 Corinthians 15:51-52).
In another letter, Paul talk about Jesus coming down from heaven as the final resurrection takes place:
“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
With the second coming of Jesus, more prophecies will be fulfilled. While Jesus was on this earth, He suffered. When Jesus returns, He will be the King and be accompanied by the armies of heaven.
Does the Bible Give the Date When Jesus Will Return?
The Bible does not give a specific date when Jesus will return. Therefore, as Christians, we are preparing and awaiting His arrival. Hope can be found in the waiting because Scripture tells of the glory of His return.
Talking with His disciples, Jesus describes some of what will happen before He returns. The disciples had gone to Jesus privately and asked Him to tell them signs of the end of time. Jesus tells us not to be deceived by people saying they know the day and hour He will return. He shares that there will be false prophets and that we are not to be fooled by them. Jesus tells how two people will be in a field, one will be taken, and the other left—and therefore, people should always be ready for his return (Matthew 24:44).
Therefore, we must be prepared at all times. Trust in God. His plan is always perfect. His timing is always best.
What Does it Mean that Jesus Will Return Soon?
While Jesus warned that he would return soon, he made it clear that only God knows the specific time and day of his return (Matthew 24:36).
God’s timing is not our timing. Humans have schedules, appointments, and ever-growing “to-do” lists with time stamps and details that cause worry and stress. God’s timing is His own (2 Peter 3:8). We are not God, and our timing is different from His.
Therefore, the definition of “soon” for us differs from “soon” for God. He doesn’t have to adhere to our schedules. Prepare and be alert for His return.
What Do We Do While We Wait for Jesus to Return?
Do we sit around and wait for the return of Jesus? No. Now is the time to prepare.
In every moment of every day, we have the opportunity to grow closer to Him. We can prepare for His return by caring for others, showing love and compassion, studying the Bible, and praying.
While we wait, there are ways to prepare for His arrival. We show Christ’s love to others through our words and actions, repenting of our sins, and staying in a close relationship with God. Waiting can be difficult, especially when we want to see Jesus face-to-face. Preparing for His return can bring comfort and peace.
Father, thank You for Your Son, Jesus. Thank You for loving us and seeking a relationship with your children. Guide us to be alert and ready for the return of Jesus. Amen.
In His Name,
Melissa Henderson
Photo Credit: Getty Images/Philip Steury
Melissa is the author of Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator. Her passions are helping in the community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.
Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and at http://www.melissaghenderson.
This article is part of our larger End Times Resource Library. Learn more about the rapture, the anti-christ, bible prophecy and the tribulation with articles that explain Biblical truths. You do not need to fear or worry about the future!
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