In a world filled with uncertainty and constant change, the question of Christ's return often looms large in the hearts and minds of believers. As we navigate our daily lives, it's easy to become preoccupied with when He will come again, especially when headlines often scream of global crises and prophetic interpretations. Yet, amidst the swirling thoughts of timelines and predictions, Jesus reminds us, with divine clarity, that "concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only" (Matthew 24:36).
So, what does this profound biblical truth mean for us as followers of Christ? Should we be filled with worry and anxiety, poring over speculative calendars, or is there a deeper, more liberating call to prepare our hearts and lives?
In this post, we will explore the essence of living in faith, embracing the unwavering promise of His return, and understanding our true role as faithful servants awaiting the joyful and triumphant arrival of our Savior. Join us as we discover how to live boldly and joyfully, free from the burdensome anxieties of "when," and fully committed to glorifying Him in all we do, eager for the day we meet Him face to face.
Should Believers Be Concerned About the Coming of Christ?
As believers in Christ, a common question arises: Should we be worried or concerned about the return of our Lord Jesus? The scriptures remind us that only the Father knows the day of His return (Matthew 24:36). This leads us to ponder why we should occupy our minds with the timing of His coming.
The Father's Timing
The business of knowing when Christ will return belongs solely to our Heavenly Father. As Deuteronomy 29:29 reminds us, "The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law." Our role as believers is not to speculate or calculate dates, attempting to uncover what God has intentionally kept hidden. Instead, we are called to live in faith, fully aware that Christ's return could be today, tomorrow, or at any moment.
This understanding, rooted in humble submission to God's sovereignty, frees us from anxiety and allows us to focus on what truly matters—living out our faith. Just as a child trusts their loving parent without needing to know every detail of their plans, so too should we trust our Heavenly Father.
The Prudence of the Wise is to Live a Prepared Life
Jesus teaches us the importance of being prepared, likening it to the five faithful virgins who kept their lamps filled with oil, ready for the bridegroom's arrival (Matthew 25:1-13). This parable, a profound biblical example, underscores the necessity of spiritual readiness. Our main concern should not be the clock, but the condition of our hearts.
Are our lamps trimmed and burning brightly with the oil of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)? Are we actively engaged in good works, reflecting the light of Christ to a dark world (Matthew 5:16)? We don't need to worry about the specifics of His arrival; instead, we should ensure that our lives reflect His glory, demonstrating the fruit of a transformed life. As 1 Peter 1:13 exhorts us, "Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ." This isn't a call to frantic preparation, but to consistent, conscious living for Him.
The Hope of the Redeemed is to live a life of Holiness
As those called to live in holiness, separated unto God, we have no reason to fear the Day of Judgment. The Apostle John boldly declares, "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love" (1 John 4:18).
Instead of dread, we should anticipate His return as a time of salvation and rejoicing. We have transitioned from death to life in Christ (John 5:24), and this glorious transformation should drive us to live in ways that glorify Him.
The biblical insight here is profound: our salvation is not a future event to be earned, but a present reality to be lived out. As Philippians 1:6 confidently states, "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." This assurance fuels our pursuit of holiness, not out of fear, but out of grateful love for our Redeemer.
Our Eternal Purpose is to serve the Call of Glorifying God
Living a life that glorifies the Father is our ultimate goal, the very reason for our existence (1 Corinthians 10:31). When Christ returns, we want Him to find us faithfully living out our calling, utilizing the gifts and talents He has bestowed upon us to advance His Kingdom.
The Apostle Paul, in Colossians 3:23-24, provides a powerful biblical reference for this: "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." We are assured that when He comes, we will be His forever, embraced in His boundless love and grace, entering into the joy of our Master (Matthew 25:21). This isn't merely a promise, but a profound biblical insight into our eternal destiny – to be with Him and to glorify Him forever.
Closing remarks
Living with Expectant Joy
In summary, as believers, we should not be consumed by anxiety about the timing of Christ's return. Such concerns distract us from our true purpose. Instead, let us focus on living faithfully, diligently, and joyfully, glorifying our Lord in every aspect of our lives. By doing so, we will be found ready to greet Him when He comes, our lives shining as a testament to His transformative power.
Let us embrace this call with expectant joy, not with dread, knowing that our lives are a vibrant reflection of His glory, and our future is secure in His loving hands. As the beloved hymn proclaims, "Maranatha! Our Lord, come!" (1 Corinthians 16:22), a cry of longing, not of fear.
Exploring life, one thought at a time.
Yours dearly, Rumishael
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