Many debates occur over the doctrine of end times (eschatology). Sadly, some get so caught up in debate over speculative matters, that they miss the whole point of this glorious doctrine!
Regardless of one’s eschatological conviction, when discussing the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, we need to recognise that it is a certainty. Revelation 1:7 boldly says, “Behold, He is coming…”. The word “Behold” has the idea of “look!” Or “see!” What is it that John is emphasising and wanting his readers to see? This is a clear reference to the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Scripture warns us that there will be those who will question and mock the teaching that the Lord Jesus will return again (see 2 Pet. 3:3-4). Despite the rise and increase of scoffers and their rebellious rejection of biblical truth, the second coming of Jesus Christ is certain. It is certain simply because God said it is going to happen. The reality and certainty of our Lord’s Second Coming is called the church’s “blessed hope” (Titus 2:13), because it is a reality that provides spiritual blessedness to the believer.
In what manner will He come? John adds that His coming will be “with the clouds.” In the Bible clouds are often a symbol of God’s presence and glory. For example, in the Old Testament when the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38) and the later the temple (1 Kings 8:10-11) was covered with the cloud, this meant that God filled them with His glory. So when the Lord Jesus Christ returns, He will be returning with the blazing and radiant glory of God (see also Rev. 19:11-21).
Our Lord told His disciples that He is coming back. On one occasion He said,
“In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also” John 14:2-3 (emphasis mine).
Two angels declared to the disciples as they were watching the Lord Jesus ascend into the glory of Heaven,
“Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven” Acts 1:11 (emphasis mine).
The return of the Lord Jesus Christ is certain. Are you ready for Him? In my next post I will briefly discuss the consequences of His coming.
Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jamesjordan/
2 Comments
Maria
Anxiously awaiting your next post 🙂
keijo leppioja
Hello in warm greeting from sweden with exciting time in the lord with blessing an longing revival to come into Scandivien after alot prayer and promises of the Lord and the HOly Spirit let he fall on us all right now in Jesus name for glory to God,thanks and bless and pray,keijo sweden