The Second Coming and the Fulfillment of God’s Kingdom
(Dan 7:13–14; Mt 16:27; Mt 25:31–46; Jn 14:2–3; Rev 1:7)
Biblical Identity and Primary References
Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God who came first in humility to save humanity and will return in glory to judge the living and the dead. Scripture presents His Second Coming as the definitive revelation of His kingship, when His hidden glory will be fully manifested and God’s Kingdom will be brought to completion.
Primary references include Dan 7:13–14; Mt 16:27; Mt 24–25; Jn 14:2–3; Acts 1:9–11; 1 Thes 4:13–18; Rev 1:7; Rev 19:11–16.
Historical and Cultural Background
In Jewish apocalyptic tradition, the “Son of Man” was a heavenly figure associated with divine authority, judgment, and everlasting dominion. Daniel’s vision arose during a time of persecution and suffering, offering hope that God would ultimately vindicate His people and establish an eternal kingdom.
First-century Jews expected God’s final intervention in history to restore justice. Jesus reinterpreted these expectations by revealing that the Kingdom would come in stages—first in humility and hiddenness, and finally in glory and power.
Detailed Biblical Biography
Jesus’ first coming was marked by humility, suffering, and rejection. Born in poverty and crucified in weakness, He inaugurated the Kingdom of God through repentance, mercy, and sacrificial love. Yet He repeatedly taught that this was not the end of His mission.
During the Last Supper, Jesus promised His disciples that He would return to bring them to the Father’s house, where eternal communion awaits (Jn 14:2–3). He spoke of a future moment when the Son of Man would come in glory with all the angels, sit upon His glorious throne, and gather all nations before Him (Mt 25:31–32).
Jesus taught that at His return, each person would be judged according to their response to God’s grace and their love in action (Mt 16:27; Mt 25:34–46). After His Ascension, angels confirmed to the apostles that He would return in the same glorious manner in which He departed (Acts 1:9–11).
References in Other Parts of the Bible
Daniel’s vision of the Son of Man receiving eternal dominion (Dan 7:13–14) forms the foundation of New Testament teaching on Christ’s return. The Psalms proclaim the Lord as King and Judge of all the earth (Ps 96; Ps 110).
Paul teaches that the Lord will descend from heaven in glory and that the faithful will be united with Him forever (1 Thes 4:16–17). The Book of Revelation presents Christ as the victorious King of kings whose return brings final judgment and renewal (Rev 19:11–16).
Jewish Tradition and Understanding
Jewish expectation anticipated a final act of divine judgment and the establishment of God’s reign over all nations. Jesus fulfills and transforms this hope by revealing that He Himself is the Son of Man and rightful King whose kingdom is eternal and universal.
His return confirms that history is not cyclical or meaningless but directed toward God’s definitive victory.
Catholic Interpretation and Teaching
The Catholic Church professes faith in Christ’s glorious return in the Creed: “He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead” (CCC 668–682). The Second Coming is not meant to inspire fear but hope, as it completes God’s plan of salvation.
The Church teaches that the exact time of Christ’s return is unknown, calling believers to vigilance, faithfulness, and active charity rather than speculation (CCC 673).
Connection to Jesus, Mary, and Salvation History
Salvation history reaches its fulfillment at the Second Coming, when Christ hands the Kingdom over to the Father and God becomes “all in all” (1 Cor 15:24–28). Mary, already glorified in heaven, stands as a sign of the destiny awaiting the faithful.
The return of Christ completes what began at the Incarnation and was accomplished at the Cross and Resurrection.
Typology and New Testament Fulfillment
The enthronement of David prefigures Christ’s eternal kingship. Daniel’s Son of Man finds full realization in Jesus. The earthly judgments of the Old Testament anticipate the universal judgment entrusted to Christ.
What was hidden in humility will be revealed in glory.
What Makes This Person Unique
Jesus alone comes twice—first to save, then to judge. His kingship is not temporary or political but eternal, righteous, and universal. He is both Redeemer and Judge, Shepherd and King.
Strengths and Virtues
Jesus reveals perfect justice, mercy, faithfulness, authority, and love. His return unites truth and compassion, judgment and redemption.
Weaknesses, Failures, or Sins
Jesus is entirely sinless. His patience in delaying His return reflects mercy, allowing time for repentance and salvation.
Lessons for Christian Leadership and Witnessing
Christians are called to live in readiness, not fear. Leadership in the Church must reflect accountability, service, and fidelity, knowing that all will one day stand before Christ the King.
Witnessing involves living the Gospel visibly, caring for the least, and proclaiming hope rooted in Christ’s return.
Reflection
The promise of Christ’s glorious return gives meaning to history and direction to Christian life. It assures believers that injustice will not prevail and that faithfulness will be rewarded. Living in expectation of the King’s return calls us to holiness, charity, and perseverance.
Every act of love, forgiveness, and service becomes a preparation for meeting the Lord face to face.
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, King of glory and Judge of all, strengthen our faith as we await Your return; help us to live vigilantly in love, mercy, and faithfulness, serving others with joyful hope, so that when You come in glory we may be found ready and hear Your gracious invitation to inherit the Kingdom prepared for us from the foundation of the world. Amen.