“But
concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should
write to you. For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the
Lord so comes as a thief in the night.” (vv.1-2)
Paul warns that Christ’s Second Coming will
come suddenly and without fanfare. Jesus’ return will be preceded by
a period of divine judgment that will take the world by surprise. The phrase
“the day of the Lord” appears throughout Scripture, especially in the Old
Testament prophets, in contexts that speak of judgment.
This “day” really refers to a series of events that includes
Christ’s return and final judgment. It will come like a thief who breaks in
while the homeowner is asleep. People will believe they are in a position of
peace and safety, even as destruction comes upon them (v. 3).
Jesus warned that it would be like the days of Noah: “For in the
days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in
marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what
would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will
be at the coming of the Son of Man” (Matt. 24:38-39).
People have wondered about the timing of these events for
generations. But those who have trusted in Jesus Christ and take God at His
word have no need to worry about “times and dates.” They are waiting for the
Father to send His Son from heaven and rescue them from the coming wrath (1
Thes.1:10).
This is part of the blessed hope that comes from trusting in Jesus.
This is part of the blessed hope that comes from trusting in Jesus.
The Truth:
“Keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”
(Matt. 25:13)
