Christ’s return: Do you find it exciting? Or Scary?
“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life.” – John 5:39-40 (ESV)
Jesus spoke these words to the religious leaders of His day—men who studied Scripture, knew the prophecies, and prided themselves on their knowledge of God’s law. Yet, they missed the most important truth: Scripture points to Christ, and without Him, there is no life. This warning is just as relevant today. It is possible to know about Jesus, to study the Bible, to participate in church activities, and yet still not belong to Him.
That is why we must examine our faith. Are we truly Christ’s, or are we merely religious? Jesus taught that in the last days, there would be wheat and tares—true believers and false converts—growing together until the time of harvest (Matthew 13:24-30). How can we tell which one we are?
Do You Long for Christ’s Return?
One of the clearest signs of genuine faith is a longing for Jesus to return. Paul described true believers as those “who love his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8). If you are in Christ, His return is not something to dread—it is your greatest hope. The thought of seeing your Savior face to face should stir joy in your heart. You may have struggles and uncertainties in this life, but your soul should echo the cry of the early church: “Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20).
If you truly belong to Christ, you understand that this world is not your home. You are waiting for the moment when He will set everything right, when sin will be no more, and when you will be with Him forever. If you long for His return, it is a strong indication that you are wheat and not a tare.
Are You Indifferent About His Coming?
Perhaps you believe in Jesus, attend church, and read the Bible, but His return does not really cross your mind. You are neither excited nor concerned—you are simply neutral. This indifference is a warning sign.
Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). If your heart is set on Christ, you will naturally anticipate His return. But if your heart is set on the things of this world, His coming will seem distant and unimportant.
Many who consider themselves Christians fall into this category. They may not reject Jesus outright, but their lives reveal that He is not their greatest treasure. If you find yourself indifferent, it is time to examine your heart. Ask yourself honestly: Do I truly know Jesus, or have I settled for religious familiarity? The answer has eternal consequences.
Do You Fear His Return?
The most serious warning comes to those who fear Christ’s return. If the thought of Jesus coming back fills you with dread, it may be because you know, deep down, that you are not ready to meet Him.
Scripture warns that “it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” (Hebrews 10:31). Those who do not belong to Christ will face His judgment, not His mercy. If the idea of standing before Him makes you uneasy, do not ignore that feeling. It is a sign that something is wrong.
But there is good news. The fear of Christ’s return does not have to be your reality. Jesus offers salvation to all who come to Him in true faith. He said, “Whoever comes to me I will never cast out” (John 6:37). If you are not certain of your salvation, do not delay—turn to Him now. Repent of your sins, trust in His sacrifice, and follow Him with your whole heart. Then, instead of fearing His return, you will long for it.
Prepare for the Harvest
The day is coming when Jesus will separate the wheat from the tares. The wheat—those who truly belong to Him—will be gathered into His kingdom, while the tares will be burned (Matthew 13:30). There will be no middle ground, no second chances.
Examine your heart. Do you long for Christ’s return, or are you indifferent—or worse, afraid? Your response to His coming reveals where you stand. If you belong to Him, rejoice and keep watching for His return. If you are uncertain, seek Him now while there is still time. If you fear His return, do not ignore the warning. Turn to Christ, and He will give you life.
Jesus is coming soon. Will you be found among the wheat, or will you be exposed as a tare?
If you find yourself either neutral or fearing Christ’s return, please find a trusted pastor, Sunday school teacher, or someone you believe to be a very strong Christian. Let them guide you through either assurance of salvation or a genuine relationship with Christ where you anticipate his return.
Read all of our Principles for Christian Living in the Last Days
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The ESV (English Standard Version) for reading
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