Essential 6 (Revelation 1.5b-7)

In this final message of the series, we consider Essential #6 which centers on the doctrine of Christ’s return:

Jesus Christ will come again to the earth personally, visibly, and bodily—to judge the living and the dead, and to consummate history and the eternal plan of God. “Even so, come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20).

Every good story has an ending and the story of God’s redemptive work is no exception.  History as we know it is not a random set of events evolving into an unknown outcome.  History has a definitive ending that comes with the return of Jesus Christ to the earth.

Practically speaking, this truth is important in the everyday life of believers because the promise of Jesus’ return brings perspective on life’s events, offering hope especially when there doesn’t appear to be any.  The promise of Jesus’ return also brings accountability.  We are instructed by the Lord to live in ways that please Him; we do so in obedience and because there will be an ultimate accounting for what we’ve done.  Finally, the promise of Jesus’ return brings great anticipation as we look forward to receiving the full inheritance that is ours in Christ.