Lorenzo Palon

The Bible, an ancient Near Eastern book, presents truths in a distinctive eastern style rather than the familiar western genres. It showcases major doctrinal truths through tension-filled paradoxical pairs, which are commonly known as dialectical tensions. However, these tensions often perplex those who are unaccustomed to eastern genres and prefer clear-cut answers. Many individuals desire truths that adhere to “either-or” categories, leading to a struggle with two specific tensions relating to the concept of the Second Coming.

Firstly, there are passages that indicate Jesus can return at any moment, emphasizing the imminence of His coming. Yet, there are other passages that suggest certain events must occur prior to His return. These events include the gospel being preached to all nations, the occurrence of a great apostasy or falling away, and the revelation of the man of sin. Both scenarios present seemingly contradictory ideas: the anticipation of an immediate arrival and the necessity of specific preconditions. This tension can be challenging to comprehend.

Secondly, the concept of the Kingdom of God also generates a similar tension. The synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke portray the Kingdom as future-oriented, something that is on its way but not yet fully realized. On the other hand, the Gospel of John emphasizes the Kingdom’s presence in the present moment and its nearness to individuals. As a result, individuals may wonder whether the Kingdom is here or out there. In reality, it is a combination of both: it is here but awaits its complete consummation.

These tensions within the Bible have contributed to great confusion when it comes to understanding the concept of the Second Coming. By recognizing the presence of dialectical tensions and embracing the paradoxical nature of these truths, one can navigate through these complexities with a deeper appreciation for the richness and depth of Scripture.

The parable of the faithful and wise servant found in the scriptures (Matthew 24:42-51, Mark 13:34-37, and Luke 12:35-48) sheds light on the tension surrounding the Second Coming of Jesus. However, it is important to note that while parables have been a great source of illuminating truth, they have also been a breeding ground for heresy within the church. This is because parables can be highly ambiguous, leaving room for various interpretations. While they are meant to reveal truths to those who believe, they can confuse and obscure truths for unbelievers. Therefore, it is not appropriate to build major New Testament doctrines solely on parables.

The central message of the parable of the faithful servant is the importance of remaining faithful to one’s assigned task, even in the face of a long delay in the Master’s return. It is surprising to consider that more than 2,000 years have passed since Jesus’ departure, as even Paul and John expected Him to return in their lifetimes. In the book of Peter, people questioned the delay, wondering where His coming was. The warning embedded in this parable is that, despite the lengthy delay, we should not grow weary in doing good and remaining faithful (Galatians 6:9; Matthew 10:22). We must remember that He WILL come again. The question that lingers is whether He will find faith on the earth when He does. So, let us continue to faithfully fulfill our assigned tasks.

It is crucial to resist the temptation to misuse the resources that God provides for ministry purposes. The parable warns against acting selfishly like the wicked servant who mistreats his fellow slaves and indulges in excesses, assuming that his Master will be away for a long time. Little does he know that his Master will return on an unexpected day. Even those who claim that the Lord’s return is imminent will be surprised by the timing. Therefore, faithfulness remains key in understanding the Second Coming of Jesus.