Jesus Himself repeatedly taught that He would return to earth someday to establish His rule over all creation. He told His disciples, “At that time men will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory” (Mark 13:26).

This is why the various Christian churches have always believed this (even if—like your church—they haven’t always emphasized it). The first Christians stressed it; the Apostle Paul called it “the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). Every major church doctrinal statement or confession of faith since then has included this truth.

Why is Christ’s second coming important? First, it gives us hope—hope that someday all the evil and injustice of this world will be destroyed. The Bible says, “But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness” (2 Peter 3:13).

The second coming of Christ, however, is important for another reason: It warns us that someday this world as we know it will suddenly come to an end, and it will be too late to repent and turn to God. Are you ready for that day when you will stand before God—either because of death or because of Christ’s return? You can be, by turning to Christ in repentance and faith and committing your life to Him today.