When Jesus Comes

"This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven" (Acts 1:11, NASB).

There can be no mistake in believing that the Bible teaches that Jesus will come again. Jesus himself taught it (Matthew 24:42); Paul taught it (1 Thessalonians 5:1, 2); and Peter taught it (2 Peter 3:10). True, the world in general goes on as if Jesus won't   return. Some    people  even   mock the Bible's   predictions (2 Peter  3:4).

¨         Will you be alive? When Jesus comes, the world will still be turning and life will be operating pretty much as it always. Jesus said that everyday occurrences such as "eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage” would be going on when  he returns (Matthew 24:38). Some, then will be alive at the return. Paul said that those who are alive will be changed  and caught up to be with Jesus when he comes (1 Corinthians 15: 51-53; 1 Thessalonians 3:17).

¨         Will you be in Christ? When Jesus comes, he will be seeking those who are prepared. The parable of the wise and foolish virgins graphically illustrates the  fate awaiting the one who is unprepared before his/her Lord: rejection and separation. Jesus came that we might have abundant life (John 10:10). We can be born again and created anew through him (John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 5:17). To be  baptized into Christ is to put on Christ. We can be alive in Christ when he comes, or we may die “in the Lord” (Revelation 14:13)—either way we and our loved ones can be comforted in this circumstance.

¨         Will you be faithful? Faithfulness is equivalent to loyalty and trustworthiness  before God. The faithful Christian is one who not only begins the new life at baptism, but maintains his holiness before God (Hebrews 12:14). The faithful Christian does not assume to be sinlessly perfect, but does understand the importance of daily “walking in the light” (1 John 1:7).  One must also remember that faithfulness is not to be seen as merely perfect or near-perfect attendance at church activities. Christian living is devotion to God and living according to His word. A faithful child of God should have no real fear of death, nor should his loved ones grieve for too prolonged a period at his passing. Someday, God will wipe away all tears (Revelation 21:4). 

Are you ready to meet the Lord when he comes?

  —Lance Cordle