Bible Reading:Ezekiel 45-46; 2 Peter 3.
Memory Verse: “And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.” 2 Peter 3:4 KJV
A number of people ask questions on when is Jesus coming back. They often add that he has said He was coming over two thousand years ago and yet He is not here. Is He really coming? Apostle Peter anticipated this and he covered clearly these thoughts and questions of many concerning the second coming of Christ. He wrote in 2 Peter 3:3-4 (KJV), “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, [4] And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.” I have been asked such a question more than once particularly by unbelievers. This is often out of mischief while a few asked out of ignorance.
Whatever the reason, the Lord Jesus Christ did not only state that He is coming soon but also gave us indicators to know when He may come though He stated clearly that only God, the Father, knows the exact time! In Matthew 24:4-13; He stated that fake Christ would come to deceive many (vs 5); there will be wars and rumours of wars, famines, pestilences and earthquakes (vs 6-8); there will be many persecutions, offences, betrayals and hatred (vs9-10); many false prophets will rise, iniquities shall be everywhere and love of Christ by many will be cold (vs 11-12); and then He said in Matthew 24:14 (KJV), “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.”
So, to those asking about the promise of the second coming of Jesus, they should check his conditions precedent and pay particular attention to the need to ensure the gospel is preached in all the nations of the world. However, beyond that, it is important that you ensure that you remain saved and continuously live a life of holiness as the Lord himself stated that He will come like a thief as nobody knows when He will come except the Father in heaven. So everyone should keep his garments pure to finish well. The Lord Jesus Christ himself said in Revelation 16:15 (KJV), “Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” Are your garments white as snow?
Action Point:
Examine yourself regularly that you are living a life of holiness everyday. Otherwise, repent now and recommit your life to God.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero