The Return of Christ: Part 5 (Like a Thief in the Night)

In previous posts we considered phenomena that will accompany Christ when he returns. What else do we know about this event?

In Matthew 24, Jesus says,

⁴² “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. ⁴³ But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. ⁴⁴ So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. (NIV)

This thief in the night motif occurs in other places.

• Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. (1 Thess. 5:1-4)
• But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. (2 Peter 3:10)
• Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you. (Rev. 3:3)
• “Look, I come like a thief!” (Rev. 16:15)

Jesus’ return will be sudden and unexpected. We will not have time to gather our friends together to watch him slowly descending to earth. He will come directly and quickly— “in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye” (1 Cor. 15:52). In an instant we will see him in glorious splendor.

Revelation 22, the last chapter of the Bible, contains this repeated refrain:

• “Look, I am coming soon!” (v. 7)
• “Look, I am coming soon!” (v. 12)
• “Yes, I am coming soon.” (v. 20)

How can this be true? It’s been almost 2000 years since the book of Revelation was written. In what sense is Jesus coming “soon”?

While some think this refers to the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, others think it reveals a false prediction. In light of the thief-in-the-night idea, however, it probably refers to the speed in which this event will be carried out. This is easier to see in versions that render “soon” as “quickly.” “Yes, I am coming quickly” (NASB, HCSB). As a result, all generations of Jesus’ followers must be prepared for his impending return, which will occur like a thief in the night.

Les Bridgeman

After graduating from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, I served as a high school Bible teacher in Asia. I enjoy traveling, writing, and playing the drums. My latest book focuses on Paul’s work as a tentmaker and what it means for today.