When Is Jesus Going to Return?
The return of Jesus Christ is a central promise in Christian faith, one that gives hope to believers. The Bible speaks of His second coming in several places, but it is clear that no one knows the exact time. In Matthew 24:36 (KJV), Jesus says, “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.” This reminds us that while we can look for signs, the exact timing of His return remains a mystery, known only to God.
Though the timing is unknown, Jesus gave His followers signs to look for that would indicate His return is near. In Matthew 24:6-7 (KJV), Jesus said, “And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.” These signs, along with others like natural disasters and the spread of the gospel to all nations, are often interpreted as markers of the approaching end times.
The Bible encourages believers to live in a state of readiness, always prepared for the return of Christ. In 1 Thessalonians 5:2 (KJV), Paul writes, “For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” This emphasizes the unexpected nature of Jesus' return, urging Christians to live with anticipation and faith, keeping watch and staying faithful to God's calling.
Should I Say Yeshua or Jesus?
Should I Say Yeshua or Jesus? The names "Yeshua" and "Jesus" both refer to the same person: the Son of God, the Savior of the world. "Yeshua" is the Hebrew name for Jesus, while "Jesus" is the Greek transliteration of that name. The question of which name to use often arises among those who want to understand the cultural and historical context of Jesus' life and ministry. Both names are biblically valid, and the choice depends on the individual's emphasis—whether they want to emphasize Jesus' Jewish heritage or the name used in the New Testament Scriptures.The Significance of the Name YeshuaThe name "Yeshua" is the Hebrew name that Jesus would have been called during His time on Earth. It means "salvation" or "the Lord is salvation." In Matthew 1:21, the angel tells Joseph, “She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” The name Yeshua aligns with this promise of salvation, as it reflects the very mission of Jesus' life. Using the name Yeshua can help Christians connect with the Jewish roots of their faith and understand the significance of Jesus' earthly identity.The Greek Name JesusThe name "Jesus" comes from the Greek form of Yeshua, which is "Iesous." The New Testament was written in Greek, and the name "Iesous" is used throughout the Gospels and epistles. While "Yeshua" may carry more of the original cultural and linguistic weight, "Jesus" is the name recognized worldwide in the Christian faith, as it is used in nearly all translations of the Bible. Jesus is the name that has been proclaimed in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) and is used to spread the gospel around the world.ConclusionUltimately, both names refer to the same person—Jesus, the Savior. The choice between "Yeshua" and "Jesus" may depend on cultural, historical, or theological preferences. Both names carry deep significance, but for Christians, the important thing is recognizing that Jesus (or Yeshua) is the Messiah who came to save humanity from sin. Whichever name is used, the focus should always be on the person and work of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
How Long Was the World Dark When Jesus Died?
How Long Was the World Dark When Jesus Died?When Jesus was crucified, a period of supernatural darkness occurred that lasted for about three hours, from noon to 3:00 PM. This event, described in the Gospels, was a sign of the gravity of Jesus’ death and its cosmic significance. The darkness is understood not only as a natural phenomenon but also as a divine act that marked the suffering of the Son of God for the sins of humanity.The Darkness During the CrucifixionThe darkness began around noon, as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. In Mark 15:33 (KJV), it says, "And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour." The sixth hour corresponds to noon, and the ninth hour corresponds to 3:00 PM. During this time, the land was covered in an unnatural darkness that lasted for three hours.Spiritual SignificanceThe darkness during Jesus’ crucifixion is rich in theological meaning. It represents God's judgment on sin and the grief of the Father as He watched His Son bear the weight of humanity’s iniquities. This darkness is often seen as symbolic of the separation from God that Jesus experienced as He took on the sins of the world (2 Corinthians 5:21). It also reflects the cosmic reaction to the death of the Savior, marking the profound significance of His sacrifice.Other Biblical References to DarknessJudgment: In the Old Testament, darkness is sometimes used as a symbol of God's judgment. For instance, in Exodus 10:21-22, a darkness covered Egypt as a judgment upon Pharaoh. The darkness at Jesus’ crucifixion echoes this theme of divine judgment.The Darkness Before the Resurrection: The three hours of darkness came before Jesus declared "It is finished" and before His ultimate triumph over death in His resurrection, which marked the victory over sin and evil (Romans 6:4).ConclusionThe darkness that covered the land during Jesus’ crucifixion lasted for three hours, from noon to 3:00 PM. This supernatural event signifies the gravity of His sacrifice and reflects the cosmic and spiritual impact of His death for the redemption of humanity (Matthew 27:45).
Why Isn't John Sobieski More Celebrated in the Christian World?
Why Isn't John Sobieski More Celebrated in the Christian World? John III Sobieski, the King of Poland from 1674 to 1696, is often remembered for his pivotal role in the Battle of Vienna in 1683, where he led a Christian coalition to defeat the Ottoman Empire’s forces. Sobieski's military success was instrumental in saving Europe from further Islamic expansion. Despite this, his legacy does not receive the widespread recognition it deserves, particularly in the Christian world. Understanding why his achievements are not more celebrated involves examining historical, political, and cultural factors. The Battle of Vienna: A Turning Point in Christian History The Battle of Vienna was one of the most significant military engagements in European history. Sobieski’s leadership in this battle is often considered a turning point in the struggle between Christian Europe and the Ottoman Empire. His victory not only saved Vienna but also ensured the survival of Christian civilization in Europe. The success of the Christian coalition led by Sobieski is seen by many as a divine intervention, fulfilling God’s will to protect Christendom. Political and Historical Context Despite Sobieski’s significant contribution to Christianity, his legacy is less well-known due to political and historical reasons. His reign occurred during a period of political fragmentation in Poland, which was later divided by neighboring powers, including Russia, Austria, and Prussia. This weakened the visibility of Sobieski's accomplishments in the broader European narrative. Additionally, Poland’s relatively isolated position in European history meant that Sobieski’s victories were often overshadowed by other European monarchs who received greater recognition from Western powers. Lack of Focus on Sobieski’s Christian Faith Another reason for Sobieski’s relative obscurity in Christian circles could be the secularization of historical narratives. Sobieski was a devout Catholic, and his leadership was driven by religious motivations, yet modern secular perspectives on history may downplay the religious significance of his actions. Furthermore, many modern Christians may not be aware of Sobieski’s role due to the emphasis on more well-known figures in the history of the Church, such as saints and theologians. The Importance of Sobieski's Legacy Despite the challenges in celebrating his legacy, John Sobieski’s contributions to Christian Europe should not be overlooked. His victory at the Battle of Vienna remains a testament to the power of faith-driven leadership in the face of great adversity. For Christians today, Sobieski’s example serves as an inspiration to fight for their beliefs, protect their faith, and uphold the values of their communities. Conclusion While John Sobieski's legacy is not as widely celebrated in the Christian world as it should be, his actions during the Battle of Vienna were pivotal in shaping the course of European history. A greater appreciation for his role in defending Christianity would help ensure that his legacy remains a part of Christian historical memory.
How Would Jesus Deal with Pedophilia?
How Would Jesus Deal with Pedophilia?Pedophilia, a grievous sin that harms the most vulnerable, stands in stark contrast to Jesus’ teachings on protecting and valuing children. Matthew 18:6 emphasizes Jesus’ strong stance: “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” Here’s how Jesus’ example guides us:1. Protect the InnocentJesus demonstrated profound care for children, calling them an example of faith (Matthew 19:14). Christians are called to protect and advocate for the vulnerable, following His example of love and justice.2. Call for RepentanceJesus offers forgiveness to all who genuinely repent. Acts 3:19 urges, “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.” However, repentance must be accompanied by accountability and restitution where possible.3. Demand JusticeGod’s justice is clear throughout Scripture. Romans 12:19 declares, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” Addressing such sins requires both spiritual and legal accountability, ensuring the safety of others.4. Encourage HealingJesus brought healing to the brokenhearted and wounded. Luke 4:18 proclaims, “He hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted.” The church should offer support to survivors, providing spiritual and emotional care.ConclusionJesus’ teachings call for protecting children, seeking justice, and offering redemption to those who repent. Christians are called to follow His example by advocating for the innocent and addressing sin with truth and love (Micah 6:8).