“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” – Mark 13:32
Understanding the Timing of His Return
When we think about when Jesus is coming back, we are often curious about the timeline. The Bible helps us understand that no one knows the exact time other than God. This teaches us an important lesson about trusting in God’s timing. We must be patient and focus on living a life that reflects our faith, rather than trying to calculate when Jesus will come again. Our anticipation of His return should inspire us to deepen our relationship with Him and to live in ways that align with His teachings.
Matthew 24:36
“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” – Matthew 24:36
2 Peter 3:10
“But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.” – 2 Peter 3:10
Luke 12:40
“You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” – Luke 12:40
1 Thessalonians 5:2
“For you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:2
Revelation 16:15
“Look, I come like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and remains clothed, so as not to go naked and be shamefully exposed.” – Revelation 16:15
Preparing Our Hearts
As we ponder when Jesus is coming back, we ought to prepare our hearts and minds. Preparing is not only about knowing the signs of His coming, but also about how we live our daily lives. Jesus encourages us to be ready and faithful. This readiness is reflected in our actions, our love for others, and our commitment to prayer and service. Each moment we devote to God prepares us for His imminent return, shaping us into people who are eager for His presence.
Matthew 25:13
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” – Matthew 25:13
James 5:8
“You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.” – James 5:8
Philippians 3:20
“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 3:20
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
Hebrews 10:25
“Not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:25
Signs of His Coming
The Bible provides us with signs that indicate His coming is near. Understanding these signs helps us to be watchful and alert. It reminds us to stay close to Jesus, keeping our focus on Him rather than on the challenges of this world. As we observe these signs, we are encouraged to remain steadfast in faith and to share the truth with those around us. Being informed will not only prepare us but also help us lead others to Christ during this pivotal time.
Matthew 24:6
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” – Matthew 24:6
Luke 21:11
“There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.” – Luke 21:11
Matthew 24:14
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” – Matthew 24:14
Revelation 1:7
“Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all peoples on earth will mourn because of him. So shall it be! Amen.” – Revelation 1:7
Matthew 24:29
“Immediately after the distress of those days, ‘the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’” – Matthew 24:29
Living in Expectation
When considering when Jesus is coming back, we find that living in a state of expectation brings a sense of purpose to our lives. We should hold an active anticipation of His return that inspires our every action. This attitude encourages us to witness to others, engage in meaningful service, and develop a deeper, more personal relationship with God. Living expectantly fuels our hope and cultivates a joyful spirit as we await His return.
Titus 2:13
“While we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” – Titus 2:13
Romans 8:25
“But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” – Romans 8:25
Matthew 5:8
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” – Matthew 5:8
Revelation 22:12
“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” – Revelation 22:12
1 John 3:2
“Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” – 1 John 3:2
Encouragement in His Return
As we look forward to Jesus’ coming, we often need encouragement. His promises never fail, and they remind us to hold on during challenging times. Knowing that Jesus will return strengthens our faith and helps us to rely on Him more. We can draw courage from the Scriptures that assure us of His love and faithfulness. Each promise is a reminder that Jesus is with us and has a plan for our lives up to His return.
1 Peter 5:4
“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” – 1 Peter 5:4
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
Revelation 3:11
“I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.” – Revelation 3:11
2 Corinthians 4:16
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” – 2 Corinthians 4:16
John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
Hope Fulfilled
The return of Jesus represents the fulfillment of hope. For Christians, this hope is not fleeting; it is grounded in God’s promises. His return will bring righteousness, joy, and the end of suffering. This incredible hope is something we hold onto as we prepare for His coming. As we live with this promise in our hearts, we look forward to a glorious reunion with our Savior and to the eternal life that He has secured for us.
John 14:3
“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.” – John 14:3
Luke 21:28
“When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” – Luke 21:28
1 Thessalonians 4:16
“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:16
Revelation 21:4
“‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’” – Revelation 21:4
Revelation 22:20
“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” – Revelation 22:20
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the return of Jesus fills us with a sense of hope and anticipation. While no one knows the exact day or hour, we are called to be ready and serve faithfully until He comes. Each verse reminds us of the importance of living a life grounded in faith and love, encouraging us to seek deeper connections with Him and with each other.
Let us embrace the signs we see and remain steadfast, trusting in God’s promises. Waiting for His return is not just about being aware; it is about living purposefully and joyfully. It is an opportunity to share His love and hope with the world around us.
As we continue to grow in faith, let us explore more topics like how to grow in grace and community in Christ. May these insights and encouragements continue to shape our hearts and guide our lives.