Be Prepared: The Sudden Return of Jesus Christ

The Surprise of Christ’s Return

In 1 Thessalonians 5, Paul answers questions about the timing of Jesus’ return. He carefully models his response on Jesus’ teaching, emphasizing that believers should wait patiently and always be prepared for His appearance.

The Day of the Lord

Paul reminds the church that they already know the answer to this question. The timing of Jesus’ return will be a surprise, like a thief in the night. This is not a new concept; Jesus Himself used this metaphor to describe His return (Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39).

A Warning to the Unprepared

Those who are not following Christ are in danger of being caught unaware. They may become so acclimatized to the status quo that they forget that Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead. Paul pictures someone who observes, “There is peace and security,” and thus assumes the signs for Jesus’ return and final judgment are still far off. Such a person fails to be prepared for Christ’s appearance.

The Sudden Destruction

It may be at just such a moment that “sudden destruction” brings the final judgment. Paul draws analogies to the labor pains of pregnancy, which can be agonizing and sudden. No one will be able to flee from the sudden judgment Christ brings.

Children of Light

In contrast to those who are unprepared, the Thessalonian believers “are not in darkness.” They already know to be prepared for Jesus’ return. As followers of Jesus, they seek to walk according to His teaching and are therefore children of light.

Being Prepared

So, what does it mean to be prepared for Christ’s return? Paul explains that it means to conduct our lives in faith, love, and hope in Christ. We are to be awake and sober, not passive or callous. We are to be watchful and ready for Christ’s appearing.

The Armor of God

Paul adopts the image of God’s heavenly armor from Isaiah 59:17. Faith, love, and hope are likened to armor that protects believers and prepares them

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