Restoration: The Second Coming
Statement of Belief
We believe in the personal, visible, and imminent return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at the beginning of the Millennium.
Matthew 24:27 — 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 — 2 Timothy 4:1 — Revelation 21:1-5 1)
Additional Information
The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is a core doctrine in Christianity, an event eagerly anticipated by believers as the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. This momentous occasion, as described in various biblical passages, will be characterized by the personal, visible, and imminent return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at the beginning of the Millennium. Let us delve deeper into the scriptures to gain a richer understanding of this essential event.
Matthew 24:27 provides a powerful analogy of the Second Coming, stating, “For just like the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so the coming of the Son of Man will be.” This verse emphasizes the sudden and unmistakable nature of Christ's return, which will be visible to all, much like a bolt of lightning that brightens the entire sky. The imagery of lightning also highlights the power and authority of Jesus as He comes in glory.
In 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, we find a more detailed account of the events surrounding the Second Coming. The passage reads: “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be suddenly caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord.” The scripture clearly describes the resurrection of the dead in Christ and the rapture of believers who are alive at His coming. The spectacular scene emphasizes the triumph of God's people and the fulfillment of His promise of eternal life with Him.
In 2 Timothy 4:1, the Apostle Paul reiterates the certainty of Christ's return, stating, “I solemnly charge you before God and Christ Jesus, who is going to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom.” This verse serves as a solemn reminder of the judgment that will accompany the Second Coming, underscoring the importance of living in accordance with God's will in anticipation of that day.
Finally, Revelation 21:1-5 offers a glimpse of the glorious new reality that awaits God's people following the Second Coming. The passage reads: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had ceased to exist, and the sea existed no more. And I saw the holy city – the new Jerusalem – descending out of heaven from God, made ready like a bride adorned for her husband.” These verses portray the establishment of God's kingdom on earth, a time of peace, harmony, and joy, when all pain and suffering will be erased.
In summary, the Second Coming is an essential doctrine in Christianity, emphasizing the personal, visible, and imminent return of Jesus Christ at the beginning of the Millennium. Scripture offers vivid descriptions of the events surrounding this momentous occasion, including the resurrection of the dead in Christ, the rapture of living believers, the judgment of all people, and the ultimate establishment of God's kingdom on earth. As followers of Jesus, we are called to live our lives in anticipation of this glorious event, seeking to honor God and share His love with those around us.