The birth of Jesus was an astounding miracle that was heard by kings and commoners alike. His life was flawless and without error; full of compassion and mercy. His death was merciless and horrific. But all of that would have been for not, if the tomb was found occupied on the third day. Jesus’ resurrection is arguably one of the most climactic events in the history of our world. If one were to remove the resurrection, our Lord’s promises are empty, our hope is lost, and the future would be painfully grim.
Thankfully, we know from factual evidence that Jesus did in fact rise from the dead. Not only is that an incredible miracle but it also serves as an allusion for what will take place for those who are found “in Him” when the last day comes. There are a number of passages throughout the New Testament that speak vividly about what that final day is going to look like. Consider the following scriptures about Christ’s return:
- The Date Will Remain a Mystery – Our Lord speaks in Matthew 24:36ff about the unknowable nature of His return. Not even the Son knows. The bottom line remains: You had better be ready.
- The Final Judgment Will Be Attended – Jesus, in Matthew 25:31-33, talks of all those who will be participating in the final judgment. His angels will accompany Him, and every soul to have lived will be in His presence during the final separation process.
- We Will Have Bodies – Paul writes about heavenly, resurrected bodies in a couple different places. The first place is in 1 Corinthians 15:35-41. He isn’t super specific in that section, but he definitely alludes to a resurrected body. The other place he mentions it is in Philippians 3:21. There, he says God will transform “our lowly body to be like His glorious body.” We know Christ had a body when He rose from the grave, especially considering He appeared to over 500 witnesses (1 Cor. 15:6). There is also some evidence given within the account of Luke 16:19-31 that suggests specific identities will be present in the resurrection. One thing is for certain: we won’t be a mystic orb floating around.
- It Will Be Audible – This is going to be an event that no one can ignore. It might be a silly observation to note that Christ’s return will be loud. However, notice all the sound that is explained within the text. Humans will be confessing Jesus as Lord (Phi. 2:10). A divine voice will begin the command (1 Thess. 4:16). Trumpets will sound (1 Thess. 4:16). The Son’s coming is not going to be quiet and subtle.
While the world may celebrate “the day of the dead” around times like Halloween, Christians have the opportunity to look forward such an event timelessly. Those who are in Christ shall rise from the dead in glory and triumph. Death itself will be swallowed up and the Lord’s final Kingdom will be revealed. Paul made it a point that the topic of the end times should be broadcast among the brethren for the encouragement and uplifting of their spirits (1 Thess. 4:18). It is on the very basis of the resurrection that Paul strived, day by day, to obtain such a prize “by any means possible” (Phi. 3:11).
Tyler King