The concept of God's expectation of return is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, reflecting the principle that God anticipates a response from His people in accordance with the blessings, gifts, and responsibilities He has bestowed upon them. This expectation is evident throughout Scripture, where God calls His people to live in a manner that reflects His character and purposes.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, God's expectation of return is often linked to the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The covenant established at Sinai, as described in Exodus 19-24, sets the foundation for this expectation. God declares, "Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations" (Exodus 19:5). Here, God anticipates obedience and faithfulness as a return for His deliverance and continued provision.

The prophets frequently remind Israel of God's expectations. In Micah 6:8, the prophet summarizes what God requires: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" . This verse encapsulates the ethical and spiritual return God desires from His people.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ amplifies the expectation of return through His teachings and parables. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) illustrates the principle of stewardship and accountability. The master expects his servants to invest and multiply the resources entrusted to them. Jesus concludes the parable with the principle, "For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance. But the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken away" (Matthew 25:29).

The expectation of return is also evident in the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). This mandate reflects God's desire for His followers to actively participate in His redemptive mission, bearing fruit through evangelism and discipleship.

Theological Implications

Theologically, God's expectation of return underscores the reciprocal nature of the divine-human relationship. It highlights the responsibility of believers to respond to God's grace with faith, obedience, and service. This expectation is not a means of earning salvation but a response to the transformative work of God in the believer's life.

The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in his letters, urging believers to live lives worthy of their calling. In Ephesians 4:1, he writes, "I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received" . Similarly, in Romans 12:1, Paul appeals to believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, as a spiritual act of worship.

Practical Application

Practically, God's expectation of return calls believers to examine their lives in light of God's purposes. It challenges them to consider how they are using their time, talents, and resources for God's glory. The expectation of return encourages a life of active faith, characterized by love, service, and a commitment to advancing God's kingdom.

In summary, God's expectation of return is a central theme in Scripture, calling believers to respond to His grace with faithful stewardship and obedience. This expectation is woven throughout the biblical narrative, from the covenantal promises of the Old Testament to the teachings of Jesus and the apostolic exhortations in the New Testament.