Return of Christ

SECOND ADVENT. The return of Jesus Christ to the earth as King of kings and Lord of lords. Though the phrase itself does not occur in the Bible, the teaching of Christ's return constitutes a favorite theme of New Testamentwriters, who speak, for example, of our Lord's appearance a "second time" (Heb. 9:28). Jesus Himself promised, "I will come again" (John 14:3).

The most frequent New Testament term for the Second Advent is parousia, meaning "presence" (literally, "a being beside"), and by extension the "coming" and "arrival" that result in "presence." The word occurs 24 times in the New Testament. In Philippians 2:12 Paul contrasts his presence (parousia) among the Philippians with his absence (apousia) from them (cf. 2 Cor. 10:10). More frequently, however, the context requires the meaning "arrival" or "coming" for parousia. For instance, the arrival (parousia) of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus from Corinth brought joy to Paul and refreshed his spirit (1 Cor. 16:17, 18). The arrival (parousia) of Titus with good news from Corinth comforted Paul in his concern for the church there (2 Cor. 7:6). While a prisoner in Rome, Paul expressed the hope of being set free and of coming (parousia) again to the Philippians (Phil. 1:26).

Another term used for the Advent is apokalypsis, meaning "revelation," "unveiling," "disclosure" (1 Cor. 1:7 2 Thess. 1:7 1 Peter 1:7, 13). At His first coming Christ's glory was hidden, and His deity was shrouded with humanity. But at His second appearing His glory and majesty are to be unveiled for all to behold (Matt. 24:30).