He will come to judge the living and the dead.

When Jesus ascended into heaven an angel told the disciples that he would come back again (Acts 1:11) This is one of the most repeated teachings in the New Testament, from the Gospels to Revelation (e.g. Matt.24:30-31; 1 Thess.4:14-16; Rev.1:7). His return is also called his “appearing” (1 John 3:2; Titus 2:13), the Greek word used for a royal visit. Jesus is coming again, this time openly and gloriously.

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His first coming was humble and veiled, so that he could achieve salvation by his death and resurrection. That saving work is finished, but still awaits its final outcome when all that has been set in motion will be brought to completion. Jesus referred to this as “the renewal of all things”, when tears will give way to joy for ever (Matt.19:28; Rom.8:19-21; Rev.21:1-5; 22:1-5).

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That day will also be the Day of Judgement and this too is Good News, for all wrongs will then be put right. “For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead” (Acts 17:31). In mercy, God waits for people to turn to him in repentance (2 Pet.3:8-13) but that day will come. “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Rev.22:20).