The concept of love is central to Christian faith. This exploration delves into the unique nature of Christian love, focusing on Agape, God’s unconditional love, and its implications for believers as they await the Second Coming. We’ll explore the surprising nature of Christ’s return, the destruction that will precede it, the darkness surrounding us, and the ultimate deliverance promised to believers.
Adrian Rogers preaching on the Second Coming.
The Bible often describes the return of Christ as a “thief in the night,” emphasizing its unexpected arrival. Just as a thief doesn’t announce his intentions, Christ’s return will surprise many. This doesn’t negate the certainty of His coming, but rather underscores the importance of constant preparedness. In 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2, Paul reminds believers of this surprising day, highlighting both the certainty and uncertainty of its timing.
The Certainty and Uncertainty of Christ’s Return
While the Bible clearly states that Christ will return, it doesn’t reveal the exact time. This is not a contradiction but a divine directive. Acts 1:6-8 recounts the disciples’ desire to know the timing of Christ’s return. Jesus responded that this knowledge is reserved for the Father, urging them instead to focus on spreading the Gospel and making disciples. Setting dates for Christ’s return is not only futile but also disobedient. The focus should be on living a life of faith and sharing God’s love with others.
The Day of the Lord: A Time of Sudden Destruction
The Day of the Lord, referenced in 1 Thessalonians 5:3, signifies a time of sudden destruction and God’s wrath upon the world. This period, often associated with the Great Tribulation, will be unlike anything humanity has ever experienced. Prophets like Joel, Jeremiah, and Daniel all describe this day as unprecedented in its severity and global impact. In Matthew 24:21, Jesus Himself describes the Great Tribulation as unparalleled in history. This is not a time of peace and safety but a time of judgment.
Living in Surrounding Darkness
As believers, we live in a world shrouded in darkness – moral, spiritual, social, and political. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-9 exhorts believers to remain vigilant and sober amidst this darkness. While the world sleeps in a drunken stupor, we are called to be children of light, aware of the signs of the times and prepared for Christ’s return. This requires us to be wise, awake, and alert, putting on the armor of faith, love, and the hope of salvation.
The armor of God includes the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of salvation.
The Assurance of Deliverance
Despite the surrounding darkness and impending judgment, believers have the promise of sure deliverance. 1 Thessalonians 5:9-11 assures us that God has not appointed us to wrath but to obtain salvation through Jesus Christ. This salvation is not merely a future hope but a present reality, providing comfort and edification in the face of uncertainty. This passage offers three key reasons for this assurance: explanation, expectation, and edification.
Explanation, Expectation, and Edification
- Explanation: God has not destined believers for wrath. This is consistent with the biblical narrative of God’s protection for His people, as seen in the stories of Noah and Lot.
- Expectation: Believers should live in constant expectation of Christ’s return, just as the early church did. This anticipation should shape our lives and priorities.
- Edification: The promise of Christ’s return should bring comfort and encouragement, motivating us to live lives of faith, love, and service.
The Call to Prepare
The message of the Second Coming is not one of fear but of hope and preparation. It’s a call to live each day as if it were our last, to love God and others deeply, and to share the good news of salvation with the world. While the day and hour remain unknown, the certainty of Christ’s return should inspire us to live lives that reflect His love and grace, preparing ourselves and others for the glorious day of His arrival. The time is now to turn to Christ, receive His forgiveness, and experience the transformative power of His love.
