If someone were to say, "A bomb exploding in your house is imminent," we would want more details. How does the person know there is a bomb? How much time do we have? Do we flee or try to locate the bomb?
No matter which option we take, the knowledge the bomb will imminently explode would change our behavior. Doing nothing would be strange.
The Scripture speaks of Jesus' return as an imminent event. His return is both a warning and comfort. The difference depends on our perspective and how we prepare (or don't prepare) for it.
So, what does the Bible mean when it says Jesus' return is imminent?
What Is the Meaning of the Word Imminent?
"Imminent" is an adjective for something about to happen or occur soon. It conveys a sense of urgency or immediacy. The term is commonly used in various contexts, including in discussions of events, threats, or situations.
The central idea behind "imminent" is that something is very close, perhaps on the verge of happening. It is connected to words like "impending," "approaching," "forthcoming," and "inevitable." These words all suggest something being on the horizon or about to take place.
It's important to distinguish between "imminent" and "immediate." While "imminent" suggests something is about to happen soon, "immediate" implies that it is happening right now, without any delay. They are related concepts but have distinct meanings.
"Imminent" can mean different things based on the context. In a wedding, "imminent" might convey excitement and anticipation. In a threatening situation, it can carry a more ominous tone.
In legal or ethical discussions, people use "imminent" to evaluate whether actions are necessary. For example, knowing whether there is "imminent harm" determines whether preventive measures (such as self-defense) are justifiable.
Using "imminent" can evoke many emotions and reactions. It may cause anxiety or stress when referring to a potential danger, while in other cases, it can instill excitement or anticipation when discussing positive upcoming events.
“Imminent” and similar words commonly appear in storytelling—writers use "imminent" to create tension or suspense.
What Do Theologians Mean When They Say That Jesus' Return Is Imminent?
When theologians refer to Jesus' return as "imminent," they express that Christ's second coming (or parousia) is a sure event in the future. He will return, and there are specific expectations within Jesus' return. Jesus’ imminent return is an important theological and eschatological idea with several implications. There are also various interpretations we need to know.
Theologically, the term "imminent" underscores the unpredictability of Christ's return. Believers should be prepared and watchful, as the Second Coming could happen suddenly, without warning. This concept is rooted in Jesus' teachings, such as in Matthew 24:44: "So you also must be ready because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."
The belief in Christ’s imminent return carries a moral and ethical imperative. Knowing Christ will return and set everything right, punishing the wicked and rewarding the righteous, gives value and meaning to actions in the here and now. Since believers don't know the return’s exact date and time, this is a consistent moral imperative. We should be ready at all times and in all situations.
Jesus’ imminent return reminds believers that, despite the world’s challenges and trials, there is a future promise: Christ will return, God’s kingdom will be established, and all suffering and injustice will be resolved. This hope is not a wish or a possibility. It is a sure thing. God will do this. This hope provides comfort and encouragement in adversity.
Christ's second coming plays a key role in eschatology—the theological study of the end times. Eschatology explores questions about the nature of the end times, the signs of Christ's return, and what events will precede it. As with many Christian doctrines, many interpretations surround Jesus' return.
While theologians emphasize the imminence of Christ's return, they also acknowledge the need for patience. Only God knows the second coming’s schedule, and the timing may not align with human expectations. This balance between imminence and patience is a recurring theme in theological discussions.
What Are Some Misconceptions about Jesus' Imminent Return?
While believing Jesus’ imminent return is integral to Christian eschatology, it has generated several misunderstandings and misconceptions.
One common misconception is trying to predict Jesus's return date. Throughout history, various individuals and groups have claimed to have calculated the precise date, resulting in disappointment when those dates came and went without the expected return. The Bible explicitly states that no one knows the day or hour of Christ's return (Matthew 24:36), and attempts to predict it are misguided.
The term "imminent" does not necessarily mean "immediate." Some people incorrectly assume that Jesus’ imminent return means it will happen without any delay—now, within their lifetime. While the term signifies the timing is unpredictable, it does not necessarily imply it will occur immediately.
The belief in an imminent return sometimes leads to fear and panic, especially when heightened by apocalyptic teachings and erroneous predictions. Misconceptions arise when individuals react with alarm and make drastic fearful decisions rather than embracing a balanced perspective that encourages preparedness and ethical living.
Some may mistakenly interpret an imminent return as a reason for inaction or indifference toward societal and global issues. They may believe that because the world is destined to end soon, there is no point in addressing current challenges or making long-term plans. However, this neglects the Christian responsibility to engage with the world and work for justice and compassion, clear elements of being ready for the reward for disciples living in Christ. According to the Bible, inaction leads to negative consequences, possibly even rejecting the Messiah at the return. For example, see the parable of the virgins and the oil (Matthew 25:1-4).
Some individuals may adopt an escapist mindset, believing they will be raptured or removed from the world before turmoil occurs. Many scholars argue the pretribulation rapture misreads Scripture. Even if biblical, this belief should not lead to a misconception that Christians are exempt from the challenges and responsibilities. Rather, Christians are called to engage with and address the world's issues.
These misconceptions arise from skewed interpretations of the Bible's apocalyptic or eschatological passages. While these passages contain rich symbolism and figurative language, insisting on a strict, literal interpretation can lead to misunderstandings. Christians must carefully consider whether the visual and biblical symbolism are literal or symbolic and have enough grace to realize certain passages could have several meanings.
Over the centuries, when attached to mistaken and specific predictions, the belief in an imminent return has led to disappointment and disillusionment when Christ's return did not happen as expected. These experiences can leave some people unsure whether any talk about Christ’s return is credible.
How Does Jesus' Imminent Return Change the Way We Live?
Believing in Jesus' imminent return has profound implications. It encourages important attitudes and behaviors as we anticipate Christ's second coming.
- Priority of Faith. The belief in an imminent return reinforces the importance of faith in a believer's life. It encourages us to trust God and seek a deeper relationship with Him. This emphasis on faith reminds us our ultimate hope and salvation rest in Christ's return.
- Moral and Ethical Living. Expecting Christ's return motivates us to lead lives characterized by moral and ethical integrity. The idea that Christ could return any moment prompts us to follow our faith and adhere to the Bible's moral principles.
- Accountability. Belief in an imminent return underscores our need for accountability. We will ultimately be held accountable for our actions when Christ returns to judge the living and the dead. This understanding encourages individuals to lead lives of integrity and responsibility.
- Service and Compassion. The belief in Christ's imminent return fosters service and compassion. We must care for the less fortunate, seek social justice, and engage in acts of kindness. We should remember Jesus' teaching on separating the sheep and goats and how he judges the difference based on their compassion for people experiencing poverty (Matthew 25:31-46).
- Eternal Perspective. Jesus’ imminent return shifts our focus from the temporary to the eternal. We prioritize God’s kingdom over worldly pursuits, understanding that heaven’s treasures matter more than earthly possessions.
- Watchfulness. As servants watch for their master's return (Matthew 24:42-44), we are called to remain vigilant, staying prepared for Christ’s unexpected arrival. This watchfulness is a reminder to remain spiritually alert and ready for His coming.
- Community and Fellowship. Anticipating Christ's return fosters a sense of unity and mutual support within the faith community as we encourage one another in our shared hope. We are to meet, even more so as Christ's return gets nearer (Hebrews 10:25).
- Evangelism. The belief in an imminent return motivates us to engage in evangelism, prompting us to share the message of salvation with others, believing that time is short and that salvation is available to all who believe. Loving others means we must share an escape from the coming judgment through the Gospel and our relationship with Christ.
- Hope and Resilience. Belief in an imminent return provides us with hope and resilience amid challenges and adversity, reminding us that, ultimately, God will bring justice and restoration and that suffering and trials are temporary.
- Contentment: Anticipating Christ's return can promote contentment, teaching us to find joy and satisfaction in our relationship with God rather than pursuing material wealth or worldly success.
We have this sure hope. Jesus is returning to set everything right, to rid this world of sin and death, and to set up a New Heaven and Earth where we will live in intimacy with him forever. This hope changes how we love one another, share the Gospel in love, and keep watchful for our Savior's return.
Peace.
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Marinela Malcheva
This article is part of our larger End Times Resource Library. Learn more about the rapture, the anti-christ, bible prophecy and the tribulation with articles that explain Biblical truths. You do not need to fear or worry about the future!
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