The Certainty of the Second Coming

Christian Hope Against Doubt

The Promises of Christ’s Return

The Assurance of Christian Hope and Faith

The Second Coming of Christ is a cornerstone of Christian faith, a future hope that Jesus will return to complete God’s promises, bringing justice, restoration, and eternal peace. Yet, for centuries, believers have faced skepticism, doubt, and various objections — from scientific reasoning to political and historical challenges. Despite these, the Christian hope remains firm, rooted in the promises and faithfulness of Christ.

The Certainty of the Second Coming: Christian Hope

In Scripture, the certainty of the Second Coming is affirmed repeatedly by Jesus Himself and by the apostles. Jesus promises, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also” (John 14:3). This assurance is a grounding hope for Christians, a declaration that our faith is not in vain. N.T. Wright speaks to this by reminding us that Christian hope is not “wishful thinking or mere optimism” but is “based on the faithfulness of God’s promises.”

Jesus compares His return to the days of Noah (Matthew 24:37-39), emphasizing that just as people doubted until the flood came, so too will His return be unexpected by many. Just as Noah’s faith was demonstrated by acting on God’s word, so believers today are called to hold fast to the promise of Christ’s return, trusting that what He has said will come to pass, even amid opposition or doubt.

Objections to Christian Hope

1. Theological Objections: Some question the idea of the Second Coming as too fantastical or inconsistent with a modern understanding of God. Why would a loving God permit suffering and delay His return, they ask? Alexander Maclaren addresses this, explaining that the seeming delay is God’s grace, allowing time for people to repent and believe. The theological objection, then, often underestimates God’s patience and desire for all to come to salvation (2 Peter 3:9).

2. Scientific Objections: Critics argue that science leaves no room for supernatural events like the Second Coming. Many believe that modern science, with its emphasis on empirical evidence, contradicts the Bible’s claims about a divine future intervention. However, N.T. Wright reminds us that Christianity is not anti-science but rather speaks to truths beyond science’s empirical limits. “The universe is more than mere mechanics,” he writes, underscoring that faith explores questions of meaning, purpose, and eternity—realms science cannot fully address.

3. Historical Objections: Historically, some point out that Jesus’ return was expected by His earliest followers, and yet 2,000 years have passed. For some, this delay is viewed as evidence against the validity of the Christian hope. William Barclay suggests, however, that time from God’s perspective is different from ours. He notes that “with God, one day is as a thousand years,” referencing 2 Peter 3:8. The historical perspective shifts when we realize that God operates on an eternal timeline, extending beyond human understanding.

4. Political and Social Objections: Others argue that Christianity’s focus on a future hope makes believers less engaged in present political or social justice issues. Charles Spurgeon, however, argued that the Christian’s hope in the Second Coming should motivate us toward greater love and justice, not less. “The best way to be ready for the Lord’s coming is to be always doing His will,” he said. Far from encouraging passivity, the hope of Christ’s return should compel believers to live out God’s love and justice here and now.

Grounds for Christian Hope

Amidst objections and doubts, Christians hold fast to certain key grounds for hope, rooted in the promises and faithfulness of Christ Himself. This hope is not grounded in our own ability to see or understand but in the character and promises of God.

1. The Promises of Christ: Jesus gave clear promises of His return, stating that His coming would be unexpected, like a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:2). This promise is not merely symbolic but an assurance of God’s intent to redeem and restore creation fully. Matthew Henry reminds us that “Christ is as surely coming as He has gone, and we are as surely to be judged by Him.” The promises of Christ give believers a reason to hope, knowing that God’s word does not return void (Isaiah 55:11).

2. The Faithfulness of God: Throughout Scripture, God’s faithfulness to His promises is evident, and the Second Coming is part of His consistent, unchanging character. “If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself” (2 Timothy 2:13). This faithfulness assures us that God will fulfill His promises, just as He has done throughout history, from Abraham to the early church and to today. Eugene Peterson speaks of “a long obedience in the same direction” as an expression of this faith. We walk faithfully because we trust in a faithful God.

3. The Testimony of the Early Church: The apostles lived and preached in expectation of Jesus’ return, even facing persecution, imprisonment, and death. Their testimony, preserved in Scripture and tradition, speaks to the strength and certainty of their hope. As Alexander Maclaren writes, “The worth or worthlessness of a life is determined by the way in which it meets the uncertainty of the future.” The apostles’ lives give us a model of living for Christ with confidence and courage.

4. Faithful Witnesses in Every Generation: From martyrs to modern-day believers, countless lives testify to the hope and transformative power of Jesus’ promise to return. Charles Spurgeon reminds us that “Christ is coming,” urging us to live with that hope firmly fixed. Believers like Noah, who trusted in God’s word despite ridicule, remind us to have faith even when society doubts. Noah’s faith was not rooted in visible evidence but in trust in God’s voice and promise.

Living in Light of the Second Coming

The Second Coming calls Christians to live with a hope that both looks forward and engages fully in the present. Our hope is not passive; it is a call to love, serve, and honor Christ now, as we await His return. Just as Noah prepared despite others’ doubts, so are we called to live in faith and expectation. Eugene Peterson’s call for “a long obedience” reminds us that our journey is one of faithfulness, even when we face challenges or opposition.

N.T. Wright reminds us that the Second Coming should shape our actions now, calling us to lives of justice, kindness, and humility. Rather than escape the world, our hope in Christ’s return fuels our commitment to bring His Kingdom’s values here and now.

 Prayer

Lord Jesus, we thank You for the promise of Your return, which fills us with hope and purpose. In the face of doubts and objections, help us to hold fast to Your Word, trusting in Your promises and faithfulness. Strengthen our faith to live with courage, compassion, and readiness, that our lives may reflect Your Kingdom now as we await its fullness. Keep our hearts fixed on You, our Hope and our Redeemer. Amen.

Bible Verses that Support Christian Hope

• “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me… I will come back and take you to be with me.” – John 14:1-3

• “For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.” – Hebrews 13:14

• “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” – Hebrews 10:23

• “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 3:20

Soli Deo Gloria

The Challenge of Christ’s Return

Awaiting the Second Coming

The Challenge of Preparedness

Living in Hope and Readiness

A Call to Watchfulness and Faithfulness

The Second Coming of Christ, sometimes called the Second Advent or Parousia, is the Christian belief that Jesus will return to earth in power and glory to fulfill God’s plan. When Jesus comes again, He will bring judgment, establish His Kingdom fully, and restore creation to its intended peace and perfection. As N.T. Wright explains, this is not merely an event to watch for, but a reality to live toward, engaging our faith daily in anticipation.

The New Testament speaks often of this promised return, yet Jesus Himself said, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Matthew 24:36). This timing uncertainty creates both a promise and a challenge for believers: we are called to live every day with faithful anticipation, actively engaged in God’s work as we await His return.

What Does the Second Coming Mean?

The Second Coming is a reminder of God’s promise that evil, sin, and death will not have the final word. This event represents the culmination of God’s plan, where Jesus will come to judge the living and the dead, as described in Matthew 25:31-46, bringing justice and the full realization of His Kingdom. For believers, the Second Coming holds deep hope—a future where all wrongs are made right, and all suffering is replaced by God’s peace and presence.

Alexander Maclaren describes this promise as a call to true readiness: “The worth or worthlessness of a life is determined by the way in which it meets the uncertainty of the future.” In other words, it is not simply about anticipating Christ’s return; it’s about aligning our lives with God’s will, living with purpose, integrity, and compassion. Each moment matters in the light of His coming.

The Challenge of the Second Coming

While the Second Coming is a promise of hope, it also brings a unique challenge. The uncertainty of Christ’s timing means we cannot live passively; instead, we must remain vigilant and faithful in our discipleship. Jesus’ words in Luke 12:42-46 emphasize this, painting a picture of a faithful servant who manages his household diligently while awaiting his master’s return. This servant represents the call for each of us to live with faithful, active obedience, serving others and tending to God’s work with dedication.

1. The Uncertainty of Timing: The fact that no one knows when Christ will return calls us to a state of ongoing readiness. Matthew Henry comments, “Christ keeps no servants to be idle; they have something to do, and must not neglect to do it.” We are not called to passively wait, but to live purposefully, reflecting God’s love and grace in all we do. Henry’s words remind us that readiness is not passive but deeply active.

2. Living in Faithful Obedience: This call to live for God every day is what Eugene Peterson refers to as “a long obedience in the same direction.” True discipleship requires a consistent commitment to Christ’s teachings, even in mundane or challenging circumstances. As Jesus instructs in Matthew 24:42, “Therefore, keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” This requires sustained faithfulness, enduring love, and steady service, even when it’s not easy or when life seems repetitive.

3. Avoiding Complacency and Distraction: One of Jesus’ most significant warnings is against complacency. The parable in Luke 12 warns of a servant who, assuming the master’s return is delayed, falls into selfish and reckless behavior. This servant’s neglectful attitude leads to serious consequences, a reminder of the dangers of spiritual complacency. Charles Spurgeon urges us to “be always doing His will,” reminding us that readiness is about actively choosing God’s way over our own, even when it requires sacrifice.

4. Enduring Doubts and Challenges: Life’s hardships, doubts, and injustices can sometimes make it hard to remain hopeful. Yet the Second Coming challenges us to persevere, knowing that Christ’s return will make all things right. James encourages believers in times of suffering, saying, “You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near” (James 5:8). N.T. Wright reminds us that faithful living now is a foretaste of the coming Kingdom. By living in kindness, justice, and humility, we are not only preparing ourselves but also sharing Christ’s hope with others.

5. Living Counter-Culturally: Preparing for Christ’s return often means living in a way that may be misunderstood or even opposed by the world. Our priorities and values as believers differ, rooted in the hope of the Kingdom rather than in the pursuit of personal gain or fleeting success. William Barclay says it well: “We must live every day as if it were our last, but plan as if we were going to live forever.” This perspective requires courage, resilience, and a commitment to God’s vision over society’s expectations.

The Call to Live in Readiness

The Second Coming is a call not just to await an event but to live each day as a meaningful part of God’s Kingdom. By aligning our actions, attitudes, and lives with God’s will, we prepare ourselves and our world for Christ’s return. Faithfulness means embodying the love of Christ, caring for others, proclaiming the gospel, and remaining steadfast in hope. It’s a journey that requires intentionality, prayer, and a heart continually turned toward God.

As Charles Spurgeon so beautifully puts it, “The best way to be ready for the Lord’s coming is to be always doing His will.” May we each live with hearts fixed on Christ, minds devoted to His Word, and hands committed to His work, so that when He returns, we are found faithful, loving, and ready.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, we await Your return with hope and expectation. Strengthen us to live each day with faithfulness, love, and purpose. Help us to serve others, walk in humility, and stay true to Your teachings. Keep us vigilant and ready, not out of fear, but out of love for You and a desire to see Your Kingdom come. May our lives honor You until the day You return. Amen.

Bible Verses for Strength in the Waiting

• “Therefore, you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” – Matthew 24:44

• “Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.” – Luke 12:43

• “For here we do not have a lasting city, but we are seeking the city which is to come.” – Hebrews 13:14

• “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

Soli Deo Gloria

The Journey of Joyful Surrender

Finding Joy in God’s Will

Embracing His Path with a Full Heart

Doing God’s Will from the Heart

Walking God’s Path

A Heart of Joyful Surrender

“[Do] the will of God from the heart.”

— Ephesians 6:6

Pursuing God’s will is sometimes misunderstood as a burdensome duty, yet it is, in truth, an invitation into fullness of life. His will is not a mere checklist of duties but a reflection of His boundless love for us. As William Barclay wisely observed, “The Christian life is not a grim duty but a glad privilege.” To know and do God’s will is to find joy in His presence and to experience the life He intends for us—a life of meaning and peace.

This perspective is beautifully echoed in Psalm 16:11, “You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” God’s will, rather than restricting our joy, invites us into it. The more we align ourselves with His purposes, the more we discover a joy that overflows from His presence. Charles Spurgeon once remarked, “Faith enables us to rejoice even in trials and tribulations,” encouraging us to root our joy in God’s presence rather than our circumstances.

Understanding God’s Will

Scripture invites us to seek God’s will with a heart of understanding: “Do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is” (Ephesians 5:17). Eugene Peterson describes God’s will as “an invitation to life in all its fullness,” a path where grace and purpose intersect, making our lives deeply meaningful. John Stott expands on this, noting that “His will is, in fact, his eternal purpose for us, based on His love and worked out in Christ.”

Matthew Henry adds that doing God’s will “cheerfully, with pleasure and delight,” reflects a heart in harmony with God’s love. God’s will is not about molding us into joyless compliance but leading us toward the abundant life He designed us to live.

Embracing Joy Amidst Difficulty

Habakkuk’s faith stands as a powerful testimony to embracing joy, even in hardship. Faced with scarcity and uncertainty, he declares in Habakkuk 3:17-19:

“Though the fig tree does not bud 

and there are no grapes on the vines,

though the olive crop fails 

and the fields produce no food,

though there are no sheep in the sheepfold 

and no cattle in the stalls,

yet I will rejoice in the LORD, 

I will be joyful in God my Saviour.”

This is faith in action: a commitment to joy independent of circumstances. John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress paints a similar picture in the character of Christian, who endures trials and temptations by keeping his eyes fixed on God’s promises. These journeys of faith reveal that while the path may be difficult, God’s will provides stability and joy.

Cultivating a Heart for God’s Will

Our journey with God requires a heart fully yielded to His will. John Stott once said, “The will of God is a way of life,” reminding us that God’s will is not just about decisions but about who we are becoming in Him. As Charles Spurgeon urged, “If you love the Lord with all your heart, doing His will is your joy.” God’s will becomes not just a path we follow but the refuge where we find our deepest contentment.

Strength in the Journey

When we embrace God’s will from the heart, we find a strength beyond our understanding. Habakkuk’s words, 

“The Sovereign LORD is my strength; 

he makes my feet like the feet of a deer”

 (Habakkuk 3:19), 

Hannah Hurnard, in Hinds’ Feet on High Places, also captures this journey: “Acceptance with joy,” she writes, is a heart that surrenders to God’s will and finds strength in every trial. It’s a call to develop “hinds’ feet,” a resilient, graceful faith that moves upward despite difficulties, confident in God’s love.

Psalm 16:11 reminds us that in the pursuit of God’s will, we discover “fullness of joy” in His presence. He does not promise us an easy path, but He does promise His unending presence, making our feet light even on the steepest climbs. Following His will, as Eugene Peterson described, is “a long obedience in the same direction.” God walks with us, guiding, strengthening, and enabling us to experience the abundant life He promised—rich with purpose, joy, and the peace of knowing we are exactly where He desires us to be.

Prayer:

Lord, 

Thank You for Your unending love and for showing us the path of life. Teach us to do Your will from the heart, finding joy in Your presence even when the way is hard. Strengthen our faith and help us to trust in Your plans, knowing that You walk with us every step of the way. May our lives reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. 

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria