The Return of the Son of Man is a central eschatological event in Christian theology, referring to the anticipated second coming of Jesus Christ. This event is characterized by the fulfillment of biblical prophecies and the establishment of God's kingdom on earth. The concept is rooted in both the Old and New Testaments, with significant emphasis in the teachings of Jesus and the writings of the apostles.

Biblical Foundation

The phrase "Son of Man" is a title Jesus frequently used for Himself, emphasizing both His humanity and His divine authority. The return of the Son of Man is vividly described in the Gospels, particularly in the Olivet Discourse, where Jesus outlines the signs and circumstances surrounding His return.

In Matthew 24:30-31 , Jesus declares, "At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and all the tribes of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. And He will send out His angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other."

Signs of the Return

The return of the Son of Man is preceded by various signs, as detailed in the synoptic Gospels. These include wars, famines, earthquakes, and widespread persecution of believers (Matthew 24:6-9). Jesus warns of false prophets and false Christs who will attempt to deceive many (Matthew 24:24). The increase of lawlessness and the love of many growing cold are also indicators of the approaching end (Matthew 24:12).

The Manner of His Return

The return of the Son of Man is described as a visible, glorious, and sudden event. In Acts 1:11 , as Jesus ascends into heaven, two angels assure the disciples, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven."

Revelation 1:7 further emphasizes the visibility of His return: "Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him."

Purpose and Implications

The return of the Son of Man signifies the culmination of God's redemptive plan. It marks the final judgment, where the righteous are rewarded, and the wicked are punished. In Matthew 25:31-32 , Jesus describes the scene: "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats."

The return also heralds the establishment of a new heaven and a new earth, where God will dwell with His people, and there will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain (Revelation 21:1-4).

Exhortation to Watchfulness

Believers are exhorted to remain vigilant and prepared for the return of the Son of Man. Jesus emphasizes the unexpected nature of His coming, likening it to a thief in the night (Matthew 24:42-44). The parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) serves as a warning to maintain spiritual readiness and faithfulness.

The apostle Paul echoes this call to watchfulness in 1 Thessalonians 5:2-6 , urging believers to be alert and sober, living as children of the light in anticipation of the Lord's return.

Conclusion

The Return of the Son of Man is a pivotal event in Christian eschatology, encapsulating the hope and expectation of believers for the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. It serves as a call to faithfulness, vigilance, and readiness, as the church awaits the glorious return of its Savior and King.