The second coming of Jesus Christ is one of the most anticipated and discussed events in the entire Bible. For Christians, it represents the hope of final redemption (resurrection), the victory of righteousness, and the fulfillment of God's promises. But with so many opinions, speculations, and predictions, we may ask: When is Jesus returning? Are there signs that will help us know? Is it happening soon? And how should we prepare for it?

Let us explore what the Bible says about the second coming, what signs to look for, and how we can live in light of this glorious hope.

What Is the Second Coming?

The second coming of Christ refers to the visible and bodily return of Jesus to earth at the end of the world. This event is distinct from His first coming, when He came as a suffering Savior. At His second coming, He will come as Judge and King to reign and bring final justice.

“And when he had spoken these things… a cloud received him out of their sight… this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.”
— Acts 1:9-11 (KJV)

Jesus Himself promised to return:

“I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”
— John 14:3 (KJV)

The second coming will bring the resurrection of the dead (1 Thessalonians 4:16), the judgment of the world (Revelation 20:11-15), and the setting up of Christ's eternal kingdom (Revelation 11:15).

Can We Tell by the Signs?

Jesus gave clear signs that would precede His return. While He stated that no one knows the exact day or hour (Matthew 24:36), He also said that we can discern the season by the signs He gave.

Some signs include:

• False Christs and deception (Matthew 24:5, 11)

• Wars and rumors of wars (Matthew 24:6-7)

• Famines, pestilences, and earthquakes (Matthew 24:7)

• Persecution of believers (Matthew 24:9)

• Widespread sin and coldness (Matthew 24:12)

• The gospel being preached in all the world (Matthew 24:14)

While these signs have appeared in many generations, the frequency and intensity of such events today suggest we may be living in a time nearer to the Lord’s return than ever before.

Is It Soon?

Every generation of believers since the apostles has lived in anticipation of Jesus' return. The apostles encouraged the early church to live watchfully and be ready:

“For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.”
— Hebrews 10:37 (KJV)

The Bible emphasizes imminence, not exact timing. This means Jesus could come at any time of history, but immediate. The early church lived in such expectation, and so should we.

Although we cannot set dates (and should reject anyone who tries), we are told to be discerning and aware of the times.

“Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.”
— Matthew 24:44 (KJV)

How to Expect His Coming

The second coming of Christ is a life-transforming truth that must affects how we live. The Bible gives us practical ways to prepare:

1. Be Watchful and Sober

   “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”
   — Matthew 25:13
   Spiritual alertness keeps us from worldliness and distraction.

2. Live a Holy Life

   “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.”
   — 1 John 3:3
   Knowing Jesus is coming should lead us to walk in purity and obedience.

3. Be Faithful in Service

   “Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.”
   — Matthew 24:46
   We should be diligently serving God, using our gifts, witnessing, and caring for others.

4. Comfort One Another

   “Wherefore comfort one another with these words.”
   — 1 Thessalonians 4:18
   The hope of Christ’s return brings encouragement in sorrow and trials.

5. Preach the Gospel

   “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.”
   — Matthew 24:14
   Our great commission includes preparing the world for His return.

While the Bible does not give us the date of Jesus’ second coming, it gives us every reason to be ready. The signs are increasing, the world is groaning, and the gospel is going forth. Christ’s return is not a fairy tale, but a sure promise of God.

Let us not sleep as others do, but be alert, serving, and ready to meet our Lord.

“Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”
— Revelation 22:20 (KJV)