The Promise Of Jesus' Return Series

The Bible consistently emphasizes Jesus' promise to return, providing hope and guidance for believers. Let's explore the biblical context surrounding Jesus' return.

Jesus' Promise to Come Again

Jesus foretold His return multiple times. In John 14:3, He said, "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." The angels affirmed this promise after Jesus' ascension, stating, "This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven" (Acts 1:11).

Jesus' Previous Comings

Jesus has already come to earth multiple times:

Incarnation: Jesus' birth in Bethlehem marked His first coming, where He dwelled among humanity (John 1:14).

Throughout history: Throughout the New Testament, Jesus appeared to individuals and groups, including the disciples, Paul, and others.

In the hearts of believers: Jesus promised, "If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling place with him" (John 14:23).

Why Jesus Must Come Again

The Bible highlights several reasons for Jesus' return:

Judgment: Jesus will judge humanity, separating the righteous from the wicked (Matthew 25:31-46).

Redemption: Jesus will fully redeem His people, transforming their bodies and creating a new heaven and earth (Romans 8:23, Revelation 21:1-4).

Triumph over evil: Jesus will ultimately defeat Satan and evil forces, establishing His kingdom (Revelation 20:1-3, 7-10).

Events Before Jesus' Return

The Bible describes several events preceding Jesus' return:

Increase in wickedness: Evil and lawlessness will intensify (Matthew 24:12, 2 Timothy 3:1-5).

Global deception: Many will be deceived by false prophets and antichrist figures (Matthew 24:11, 24).

Natural disasters: There will be an increase in natural disasters and catastrophes (Matthew 24:7-8).

The apostasy: A great falling away from the faith (2 Thessalonians 2:3).

The World When Jesus Comes

When Jesus returns, the world will be characterized by:

Turmoil and chaos: Societal collapse, wars, and natural disasters (Matthew 24:6-8).

Spiritual darkness: Widespread rejection of God and His truth (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

After Judgment: Eternity

Following judgment, believers will:

Enter eternal life: Inhabiting the new heaven and earth, enjoying God's presence (Revelation 21:1-4).

Dwell with God: Experiencing eternal fellowship with God and the redeemed (John 14:2-3).

For those who reject Jesus, the consequence will be eternal separation from God.

Conclusion

Jesus' return is a biblical certainty, promising judgment, redemption, and triumph over evil. Believers eagerly anticipate this event, knowing it marks the beginning of eternal life with God.