Many of us have heard, or even spoken, the statement "Jesus is coming soon." But what does "soon" mean? This morning, my husband was enjoying a much-needed extended rest. I was in the kitchen and he texted me to let me know he would be out "soon," as a breakfast preparation alert. I fired up the burners and got "cracking" on the eggs. As the meal prep progressed, I began to wonder when my husband was going to appear. Ultimately, I popped my head into the bedroom door to let him know breakfast was almost ready.
The early Thessalonian church, like me, misinterpreted "soon." The gospel had been preached to them, including Jesus' promise to return and receive all believers to Himself. Some of them used that teaching to justify quitting work and were wandering idly around: if Jesus was coming back, why bother? The Apostle Paul wrote to the church at Thessalonica and cleared up their misinterpretation of Jesus' second coming. Many events would have to happen prior to that great day. Paul listed a few of those events in his letter, and clearly stated that living a productive life is not optional.
What is my point? Believers must be careful to not try to pinpoint the day or time that Jesus will return. Jesus made it clear that only God the Father knows the appointed day and hour. Jesus' return is not so much about the timeframe, but it is more about His promise; and our need to stay ready.
Scripture References:
2 Thessalonians, chapters 2 & 3
Matthew 24:36 and Mark 13:32
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