Definition and Overview:
Confidence at Christ's Coming refers to the assurance and boldness that believers possess regarding the return of Jesus Christ. This confidence is rooted in faith, obedience, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a Christian. It is a state of spiritual readiness and anticipation for the Second Coming of Christ, characterized by a steadfast hope and trust in God's promises.

Biblical Foundation:
The concept of confidence at Christ's coming is primarily derived from the New Testament, where the return of Jesus is a central theme. The Apostle John addresses this in his first epistle: "And now, little children, remain in Him, so that when He appears, we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming" (1 John 2:28). This verse emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ to maintain confidence.

Key Aspects:

1. Abiding in Christ:
· Abiding in Christ is essential for maintaining confidence at His coming. It involves a continuous, intimate relationship with Jesus, characterized by obedience to His commandments and a life led by the Spirit. John 15:4-5 states, "Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself unless it remains in the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me."

2. Righteous Living:
· Confidence is also linked to living a righteous life. Believers are called to pursue holiness and righteousness, reflecting the character of Christ. 1 John 3:2-3 declares, "Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure."

3. Faith and Assurance:
· Faith in the promises of God and the assurance of salvation are foundational to confidence at Christ's coming. Hebrews 10:35-36 encourages believers, "So do not throw away your confidence; it holds a great reward. You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised."

4. Hope and Anticipation:
· The hope of Christ's return is a source of encouragement and motivation for believers. Titus 2:13 speaks of "the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ." This hope inspires believers to live in a manner worthy of the gospel.

5. Preparedness and Watchfulness:
· Jesus Himself taught about the importance of being prepared and watchful for His return. In Matthew 24:42 , He instructs, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come." This preparedness involves spiritual vigilance and readiness.

Practical Implications:
Believers are encouraged to cultivate a lifestyle that reflects their confidence in Christ's return. This includes regular prayer, study of Scripture, fellowship with other believers, and active participation in the mission of the Church. By doing so, they strengthen their faith and readiness for the day of His coming.

Conclusion:
Confidence at Christ's coming is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, encouraging believers to live with hope, righteousness, and anticipation. It is a confidence not based on human effort but on the grace and promises of God, ensuring that when Christ returns, His followers will stand before Him unashamed and full of joy.