InstaStudy

The Blessed Hope: Understanding His Return

A study exploring the biblical truths surrounding the glorious return of our Lord, the gathering of His people, and the call to live in readiness for that day.

1. The Promise of His Coming

1.1 The Certainty of His Return

Verses: John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
  • Jesus Himself promised to come again for His followers.
  • The apostles consistently taught about His return as a foundational truth.
  • His coming is a sure and certain event, central to our faith.

1.2 The Nature of His Coming

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Revelation 1:7; Matthew 24:30
  • He will descend from heaven with a shout and the sound of a trumpet.
  • His return will be personal, visible, and glorious.
  • He comes specifically to gather His church, His redeemed people.

1.3 The Timing is Unknown

Verses: Matthew 24:36; Matthew 25:13; Mark 13:32-33
  • No one, not even the angels, knows the exact day or hour of His return.
  • We are commanded to be watchful and ready at all times.
  • The suddenness of His coming emphasizes the need for constant readiness.

2. Who Will Be Taken?

2.1 Those Who Are Alive and Remain

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52
  • Believers who are living at the time of His return will be caught up.
  • They will not precede those who have already died in Christ.
  • A miraculous transformation will occur in their bodies.

2.2 Those Who Have Died in Christ

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:16; John 5:28-29
  • The dead in Christ will be resurrected first.
  • Their spirits will return with Him, and their bodies will be glorified.
  • This resurrection is a promise of eternal life for the faithful.

2.3 The Characteristics of the Redeemed

Verses: Acts 2:38; Hebrews 12:14; Titus 2:13
  • They are those who have obeyed the gospel message.
  • They are living lives of holiness and devotion to Him.
  • They are eagerly looking for and anticipating His glorious appearing.

3. The Event Itself

3.1 The Sound of His Coming

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:16; 1 Corinthians 15:52
  • His return will be accompanied by a commanding shout.
  • The voice of the archangel and the trumpet of God will sound.
  • These sounds signify a powerful, divine, and unmistakable event.

3.2 The Transformation of Bodies

Verses: 1 Corinthians 15:53-54; Philippians 3:20-21
  • Mortal bodies will be changed into immortal bodies.
  • Corruptible bodies will become incorruptible, no longer subject to decay.
  • We will receive glorified bodies, fashioned like His own glorious body.

3.3 Meeting Him in the Air

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:17
  • Both the resurrected dead and living believers will be caught up together.
  • This is a literal, physical ascent to meet the Lord.
  • From that moment forward, we will forever be with the Lord.

4. Preparation for His Return

4.1 Living in Holiness and Righteousness

Verses: 2 Corinthians 7:1; Hebrews 12:14; 1 Peter 1:15-16
  • We are called to cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit.
  • Purity of heart and conduct is essential for those who await Him.
  • Without holiness, no one will see the Lord in peace.

4.2 Watchfulness and Readiness

Verses: Matthew 24:42-44; Luke 12:35-40; Revelation 16:15
  • We must remain spiritually alert and vigilant.
  • Avoid spiritual slumber and be prepared for His sudden arrival.
  • Live each day as if He could return at any moment.

4.3 Proclaiming His Gospel

Verses: Matthew 24:14; Mark 16:15-16; Acts 1:8
  • The gospel of the kingdom must be preached to all nations as a witness.
  • This is our divine mission and responsibility until He comes.
  • Sharing the truth prepares others for His return and expands His kingdom.