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The Coming of Christ
Introduction:
Text: Acts 1:9–11 — The
angels declared that Jesus, who ascended into heaven, will return in
the same manner. His second coming is certain, inevitable, and
universal in scope.
The Certainty of His Return
When Jesus ascended into heaven, the angels proclaimed, “This same
Jesus… will so come in like manner as you saw Him go.” There is no
doubt—Christ will return. His coming will not be to establish a
physical kingdom, for His kingdom already exists as a spiritual one.
Jesus made that plain when He said, “My kingdom is not of this
world.” At His return, He will judge all humanity.
The Judgment Scene
Matthew 25:31–33 gives a vivid picture of the Son of Man returning
in glory with His angels, sitting upon His throne, and separating
all nations as a shepherd divides sheep from goats. This same
picture is echoed in Revelation 20, where the dead stand before the
great white throne. The Book of Life is opened. Those whose names
are found written in it will be among the saved; those whose names
are absent will be condemned. When Christ returns, eternity
begins—no more second chances, no further opportunity to change
one’s destiny.
Those Who Will Be
Surprised
Scripture describes three broad groups who will be unprepared when
Jesus returns.
1. Those Who Did Not
Believe He Would Return
In 2 Peter 3:3–4,
scoffers say, “Where is the promise of His coming?” They mock the
very idea, claiming the world continues unchanged. These are
unbelievers—atheists, followers of false religions, and those who
rejected Christ as the Son of God.
Revelation 1:7 warns that
“every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him.” Their disbelief
will vanish in terror when He appears in the clouds.
2. Those Who Thought They
Had More Time
Luke 12:16–20 tells of a rich man who planned to enjoy his wealth
for many years, only to hear the words, “Fool! This night your soul
will be required of you.” He thought he had time—but he didn’t. The
same is true of the five foolish virgins in Matthew 25, who ran out
of oil and missed the bridegroom’s arrival. Jesus warned, “You do
not know the day nor the hour.” None of us knows whether we will
have another opportunity to obey the gospel or to make peace with
others.
3. Those Who Thought They
Were Saved, But Were Not
In Matthew 7:21–23, Jesus
says, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the
kingdom of heaven.” Many will claim to have done great works in His
name, but He will answer, “I never knew you.” Only those who
do the will of the Father
will enter the kingdom. Jesus is the Savior of the body (Ephesians
5:23), and the body is the church (Ephesians 1:22–23). Only those in
the church—the one He built and purchased—will be saved.
Faithfulness is required to remain within His favor (Revelation
2:10).
Those Who Will Rejoice at
His Coming
For the faithful, Christ’s return will be the most joyful moment
imaginable. 1 Thessalonians
4:13–18 describes the Lord descending with a shout, the dead in
Christ rising first, and the living faithful meeting Him in the air.
From that moment forward, they will forever be with the Lord. It
will be a glorious reunion, a moment of triumph and eternal peace
for all who remained steadfast.
The Need for Readiness
Every person must ask: “Am I ready for the Lord’s return?” Those who
have never obeyed the gospel must believe in Christ, repent of sin,
confess His name, and be baptized for the remission of sins. Those
who have obeyed must remain faithful, live righteously, and walk
daily in obedience.
The Coming of Christ
Sermon Outline:
Call to Action:
Are you ready for the coming of Christ? His return is certain, and
it could be at any moment. If you have not obeyed the gospel, today
may be your final opportunity. If you need forgiveness or
restoration, now is the time to act. Make things right with God
before the door of opportunity closes forever.
Key Takeaways:
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Christ’s return is certain
(Acts 1:11).
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Judgment will separate the
saved from the lost (Matthew 25:31–33).
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Many will be
surprised—unbelievers, procrastinators, and the self-deceived (2
Peter 3:3–7; Matthew 7:21–23).
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The faithful will rejoice
and be forever with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:17).
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Today is the day of
salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2).
Scripture Reference List:
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Acts 1:9–11 –
Christ’s ascension and promised return.
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Matthew 25:31–33 –
The judgment of all nations.
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2 Peter 3:3–7 –
Scoffers deny His coming.
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Luke 12:16–20 – The
foolish rich man’s last night.
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Matthew 25:13 – The
need for watchfulness.
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Matthew 7:21–23 –
False professions of faith rejected.
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Ephesians 5:23 –
Jesus as the Savior of the church.
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1 Thessalonians 4:13–18
– The resurrection and eternal reunion.
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Revelation 2:10 –
Faithfulness unto death rewarded.
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2 Corinthians 6:2 –
Now is the accepted time for salvation.
Prepared
by Bobby Stafford of the church of Christ at Granby, MO
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