Churches Living in Eager Expectation of Jesus’ Return

Throughout history, people have made predictions about the return of the Lord Jesus to Earth, claiming to know the exact date. However, none of these predictions have come true since his ascension to heaven. It shouldn't come as a shock since Jesus himself stated in 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." Although Jesus' words about his return are written in the Bible, some people still believe they can predict the exact time of his coming.

Denying the second coming of our Lord Jesus is more dangerous than making false predictions. The Bible states that history will eventually end and Jesus will return. This event, like his first coming, will be significant and involve taking the faithful home and punishing the unrighteous. It is our duty as believers to stay alert, live in righteousness, and be prepared for the second coming of Jesus. We should not be deceived by false predictions and instead focus on living holy lives for when he comes. In Mark 13:33-37 Jesus reminds us to watch and pray because we do not know the day or the hour. The hope that we have in his return is a source of comfort and joy for us as Christians. So let us prepare ourselves by living holy lives while we wait patiently for the Lord's return.

The belief in the second coming of Christ is important to the gospel. All details about it in the Bible will come to pass accurately. Therefore, those who reject, hinder, misinterpret, or ignore the truth of the second coming will face severe judgment.

Although Christians may have varying views regarding the specifics of Christ's return, it is important for us to always be prepared for it every day. The distractions and stresses of this world may tempt us to lose focus on Jesus. We may face difficulties that can burden us and situations that can divert our focus, but we must look to Jesus who has given us the ability to overcome, as stated in Romans 8:37.

With the second coming of Christ, believers will be given a new body and eternal life in the presence of God. This hope motivates us to live our lives as if Jesus could return at any time. Therefore, we must always stand ready for his coming and reject false predictions or teachings that can lead us astray. By doing so, we can look forward to the day when Jesus Christ returns and brings eternal glory to heaven.

Live with the awareness that Jesus may return soon, and let this motivate your decisions, lifestyle choices, and actions. Stay prepared and be ready for his arrival, so you are not caught off guard. As Jesus said in Luke 12:35, "Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning." A responsible servant remains prepared and available for when their master comes back.

To be dressed is to be ready in all aspects - emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. We shouldn't disregard the significance of Jesus's return in our daily lives, but at the same time, we shouldn't dispose of all our belongings and anticipate his arrival on a mountaintop. He expects us to eagerly await his coming. Keeping our lamps burning refers to reflecting Christ's light through our actions. We should testify and remain vigilant, and aware of the present times.

Churches must cultivate an atmosphere of eager expectation for Jesus' return by fostering a community of faith that is vibrant, devoted, and watchful. Preaching should emphasize the reality of His return and the need for continual spiritual readiness. The essence of hope and anticipation should permeate all teachings and activities, encouraging members to keep their spiritual 'lamps burning', living upright lives and serving faithfully in their capacities. As a community, the church should continually engage in prayer, Bible study, and acts of service, acting as the hands and feet of Jesus on earth. Regular reminders of His return can inspire members to focus on eternal realities, rather than temporal issues. This mindset forms the basis of a church that truly operates with eager expectation of the Lord's return, creating a beacon of light in a world that needs His hope.

Jesus cautions that those who are not ready for his arrival will be caught off guard, similar to how a thief comes unexpectedly in the night. Some individuals are occupied with accumulating possessions on Earth, preoccupied with their duties, and anxious about their reputation among others. They are engrossed in various activities and have no time to spare for Jesus.

But for those who love the Lord and are waiting for his return, for them, his coming will be like the joyful combination of Labor that brings a baby to the arms of his mother. Unspeakable joy and overwhelming gratitude belonged to the believer who is looking for Jesus' return. The faithful will rejoice at the sight of the Lord's coming because great will be their reward!