CHRIST’S RETURN

1 Thessalonians 5:9-10 New International Version

“For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.”

            Our redemption from sin is solely due to Christ’s death on a cross. Our salvation will be complete once we get to heaven. We are expected to remain faithful to God and live not with the hope, but with the expectation that Christ will return for us at any time. “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. 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 14:1-3 ESV

            I believe Christ’s return will be very sudden: “For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.”Matthew 24:27 ESV  “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed.”  1 Corinthians 15:52 ESV Scripture tells us no one knows when Christ’s return will be, not even Christ himself: “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” Matthew 24:36 ESV“For you know quite well that the day of the Lord's return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night.” 1 Thessalonians 5:2 NLT “Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Matthew 24:44 ESV

            A thief in the night is a perfect illustration, because who expects a thief to break in to your home while you are sound asleep. What will transpire Hollywood only wishes they could replicate, but I believe this will be quite a spectacle to behold.  Just as the suddenness of the rain coming in Noah’s day, I believe the suddenness of souls being taken up to meet Christ in the clouds will cause people left behind to moan and cry for mercy and that they could go too. But it will be too late. Those who have faithfully and diligently stayed the course and lived a life that was pleasing in the sight of God will reap their ultimate reward. We don’t need to live a perfect life, but rather a life of faith led by the Spirit.  A life filled with love and not hate.  A life filled with mercy and not revenge.  A life that is a reflection of Christ’s own life. Christ will return for us. Is your heart ready? Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.

Note: ESV – English Standard Version of the Bible; NLT – New Living Translation.

Any and all definitions were taken from the American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language