As Christians, we all draw great comfort from the promise of Jesus’ return. Just as in his first advent, his presence in his second advent proclaims that God’s plan is not only underway but unbreakable as well. The challenge comes when we as Christians try and comprehend the mechanics and timing of his return. There are many prophecies, many hints and many seemingly confusing statements about his return. So, what are we supposed to do with all of this? In this episode, we are suggesting we look at an overview of several aspects of his return and then settle in on one aspect that describes a specific sign of his return that is plain and simple, and yet somewhat hidden from many who watch.

The Greek word Parousia

To understand the many and varied signs of Jesus’ return, we need to grasp the biblical distinction between the New Testament Greek word translated “coming” and its true meaning being “presence.” This simple and appropriate correction helps us see Jesus’ return not as an abrupt arrival, but rather as a gradual, multi-phase process beginning quietly, like a “thief in the night,” and culminating in visible glory and restoration.

This understanding is verified in the many descriptions of Jesus’ return.

His return includes:

• Power and glory in symbolic “clouds”


• A trumpet and shout announcing resurrection


• Participation with his “mighty angels” (faithful followers)


• A dismantling of worldly systems before the restoration of all things

Rather than predicting future events, we live at a time when looking backward at fulfilled prophecies can provide overwhelming evidence of Jesus’ presence. The regathering of Israel to their homeland is just one key sign of his return. Jesus linked the fig tree as a symbol of Israel to his presence. Israel’s restoration—starting with the settlement of Petah Tikva in 1878, and then nationhood in 1948—is a visible fulfillment. These historical facts and the way Jesus linked them in prophecy should not be taken lightly.

Revelation’s depiction of the church’s historical timeline (Revelation 2–3) serves to verify the fig tree prophecies. In Revelation, seven churches depict seven phases of Christian history. In the final stage, Jesus is “standing at the door,” meaning he has arrived, exactly as he said he would when Israel was to be restored. This exact language contained in both prophecies is a strong verification of where we stand regarding prophecies fulfilled in God’s plan today.

The return of Jesus is a multi-faceted process for the ultimate purpose of the restoration of the earth and humanity into harmony with our Creator. Though the completion of this restoration passes through trouble and strife, the results will be the establishment of God’s glorious kingdom on earth!