The Coming of Christ

Pacific Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Oakland, California · Feb 6, 1879

The Coming of Christ.

THE following excellent remarks on the coming of the Lord are part of a “Sermon Outline,” by Prof. E. A. Main, in the Sabbath Recorder: —

As to the manner of his coming, the Saviour teaches that it will be, (1) Visible to all. Matt. 24: 26, 27. (2) In Power. Matt. 26: 64. (3) Sudden and unexpected. Luke 12: 39, 40; Mark 13: 32, 33.

There will be unbelief and wickedness in the earth at the coming of the Lord. Matt. 24: 37-41; Luke 18: 8. And his coming will be a terrible thing, (1) To those who are ashamed of Christ and his doctrine. Mark 8: 38. (2) To oppressors of their fellow-men. Matt. 24: 49. (3) To the drunken and reveling. Matt. 24: 49. (4) To those so completely absorbed in worldly cares that that day comes upon them unawares. Luke 21: 34.

Thus, as one sees only the highest parts and prominent characteristics of a distant landscape, are we permitted to behold only the principal facts relating to our Lord’s second coming. But these are sufficient to admonish the careless and unbelieving; to comfort the troubled and sorrowful, and to sanctify the devout and trusting. The Saviour has taught us enough to put us on our guard against the deceptions of false doctrines, to stimulate us to watchfulness, and to confirm us in our hope of everlasting blessedness and glory.

In view of our Lord’s sure return, we are commanded to beware of false teachers, to watch for the bridegroom's coming; to endure unto the end, though in trial and persecution, and to pray for guiding and sustaining grace.

This doctrine is therefore exceedingly practical, full of warning for the unbelieving and ungodly, and of strength and consolation for the faithful followers of Him who has left them this blessed word: “I will come, again and receive you unto myself, that where I am there ye may be also.”