Day 348

Christ Is Coming Again

Read: 1 Thessalonians

The New Testament places great emphasis on the fact that Christ is coming back to this earth. Today churches either neglect the subject or place their emphasis on the details of his coming, many of which are not based on solid biblical interpretation. In any case, we’ve lost nearly all sense of urgency about Jesus’ return.

Christ is coming again. The church at Thessalonica was “an example to all the believers” (1:7), and one of its characteristics was “you turned to God from idols . . . to wait for his Son from heaven” (vv. 9-10). Paul also is waiting for the coming of Christ as he looks forward to standing in the presence of Jesus with them “at his coming” (2:19). It is for this reason that he is concerned about the quality of their Christian life and sends Timothy “to establish you in your faith” (3:2). As with the previous two chapters, this one also ends in a reference to the second coming of Christ. Because we must all stand before Christ at his coming, it is important that our hearts be established “unblamable in holiness” (v. 13).

In the fourth chapter, Paul details such holiness of life and then also gives some description of what the second coming will be like. Our loved ones who have died will also share in that glorious event, “therefore comfort one another with these words” (4:18). Christ will come suddenly, therefore our task is to build one another up (5:11).

PRAYER
Father, may your Son return soon. Work in our hearts by your Holy Spirit so we will be ready. For Jesus’ sake. Amen.