JESUS’ SECOND COMING
The second coming of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of Christian eschatology and holds profound significance in the Bible. Unlike His first coming, which was marked by humility and sacrifice, the second coming will be characterized by majesty and judgment. This future event will fulfill numerous biblical prophecies and bring to completion God’s redemptive plan for humanity.
The First Coming: Humility and Sacrifice
Jesus’ first coming was marked by His humble incarnation. Born in a manger, He lived a life of service, preaching the Kingdom of God and offering Himself as a ransom for many. This mission was one of reconciliation, calling humanity back to God through repentance and faith. As Paul writes, “But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of children” (Gal 4:4-5).
The Second Coming: Power and Glory
In stark contrast, Christ’s second coming will be a display of divine power and glory. It will be an event of cosmic significance, as vividly described in the Scriptures. The apostle Peter emphasizes the suddenness and totality of this event: “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a mighty roar and the elements will be dissolved by fire, and the earth and everything done on it will be found out” (2 Pet 3:10). This metaphor of a thief underscores the unexpected and imminent nature of Christ’s return, urging believers to remain vigilant and prepared.
Jesus’ Own Prophecies
Jesus Himself foretold His glorious return, emphasizing His role as judge over all nations. In Matthew 25:31-32, He says, “But when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. Before him all the nations will be gathered, and he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.” This vivid imagery depicts the final judgment, where each person’s deeds will be evaluated.
Similarly, in Matthew 16:27, Jesus declares, “For the Son of Man will come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and then he will render to everyone according to his deeds.” This statement reinforces the theme of divine justice and recompense, assuring that righteousness will ultimately prevail.
The Apostles’ Understanding and Hope
The revelation of Jesus’ second coming provided immense comfort and hope to the apostles. Initially, they had misunderstood Jesus as an earthly king who would liberate Israel from Roman rule. However, Jesus’ teaching and eventual resurrection clarified that His kingdom was not of this world (Jn 18:36). The promise of His return in glory justified the apostles’ sacrifices and steadfastness in the face of persecution. They were emboldened to preach the gospel and endure hardships, knowing that their labor was not in vain and that a crown of righteousness awaited them (2 Tim 4:8).
REFLECTION
For Christians today, the second coming of Christ is both a source of hope and a call to action. It reminds us that history is moving toward a divine climax, where justice and peace will ultimately be established. This belief should inspire us to live lives that reflect the values of the Kingdom of God—love, justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
As we await His return, we are called to be vigilant and active in our faith. Jesus’ parable of the ten virgins (Mt 25:1-13) serves as a powerful reminder to keep our lamps filled with oil, symbolizing a life of readiness and devotion. Additionally, the Great Commission (Mt 28:19-20) urges us to spread the gospel, making disciples of all nations.
In these times of uncertainty and challenge, let us hold fast to the promise of Christ’s return. As the apostle Paul exhorts, “Therefore encourage one another with these words” (1 Thes 4:18). Let us live in a manner worthy of the calling we have received, reflecting the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs hope and redemption. May the anticipation of Jesus’ second coming inspire us to remain faithful, to persevere in good works, and to eagerly await the day when we will see our Savior face to face, coming in power and great glory.