The hope of God's coming is a central theme in Christian eschatology, reflecting the anticipation of God's intervention in human history to fulfill His promises and establish His eternal kingdom. This hope is rooted in both the Old and New Testaments, where the coming of God is portrayed as a time of judgment, restoration, and ultimate redemption.

Old Testament Foundations

The hope of God's coming is first articulated in the Old Testament, where the prophets frequently speak of "the day of the LORD" as a time when God will decisively act in history. This day is characterized by both judgment against the wicked and deliverance for the faithful. For instance, the prophet Isaiah declares, "For the day of the LORD of Hosts will come against all the proud and lofty, against all that is exalted—it will be humbled" (Isaiah 2:12). Similarly, the prophet Joel speaks of a future outpouring of God's Spirit and a time of great deliverance: "And it will come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all people" (Joel 2:28).

Messianic Expectation

The hope of God's coming is closely tied to the expectation of a Messiah, a divinely appointed leader who will usher in God's kingdom. The prophet Micah foretells the birth of a ruler in Bethlehem, whose origins are "from of old, from ancient times" (Micah 5:2). This messianic hope is further developed in the writings of Isaiah, who describes a future king from the line of David: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders" (Isaiah 9:6).

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the hope of God's coming is fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. The Gospels present Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah who inaugurates the kingdom of God. Jesus Himself speaks of His return, emphasizing the need for readiness and vigilance: "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come" (Matthew 24:42).

The apostle Paul further elaborates on this hope, describing the return of Christ as a time of resurrection and transformation for believers: "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will be the first to rise" (1 Thessalonians 4:16). This event, often referred to as the Second Coming, is a source of great encouragement and motivation for Christians to live holy and godly lives.

The Book of Revelation

The Book of Revelation provides a vivid portrayal of the hope of God's coming, depicting the ultimate victory of Christ over evil and the establishment of a new heaven and a new earth. John writes, "He who testifies to these things says, 'Yes, I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20). This apocalyptic vision assures believers of the final fulfillment of God's promises and the consummation of His kingdom.

Practical Implications

The hope of God's coming has profound implications for Christian living. It inspires believers to persevere in faith, maintain moral integrity, and engage in mission and service. The apostle Peter exhorts Christians to live in anticipation of this hope: "But in keeping with God’s promise, we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells" (2 Peter 3:13). This forward-looking perspective encourages a life of holiness and active participation in God's redemptive work in the world.