The Finished Word

Paul does not provide detailed information about signs and seasons since the Lord will arrive like a thief in the night – 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3. Paul continues to discuss the “ arrival ” or ‘ Parousia ’ of Jesus Christ in Chapter 5 of First Thessalonians , as he addresses the question of the timing of that day and how it will affect the prepared and the unprepared. Rather than signs and timetables, the Apostle reminds his readers that the Day of the Lord will come like a “ thief in the night .”

Jesus stressed critical information that is vital if we hope to avoid deception by false prophets and other deceivers active in the Assembly . The discourse given by Jesus on the Mount of Olives includes instructions about the future. He warns repeatedly of “ the many deceivers ” and “ false prophets ” who will spread misleading information about his return, and thereby they will deceive many of “ the elect .” Constant vigilance and adherence to the Apostolic teachings are necessary so we may recognize their deceptions and lies.

Popular preaching often claims that Jesus commanded his disciples to “discern the times and the seasons” so they may know when the end of the age draws near. They must know and understand the “signs” so they can be prepared to meet Jesus on his return. Though we may assume this is an established fact, Jesus never stated anything to this effect. At no place in the New Testament does he command his followers to know all the times, signs, and seasons. He taught them something rather different.

According to Jesus, the End will not come until the Gospel of the Kingdom of God has been proclaimed to all nations  – Matthew 24:14. When the subject of the Second Coming is raised, the question of what sign will precede it is asked. Invariably, wars, earthquakes, tsunamis, famines, and similar catastrophes are offered as harbingers of that final day. Yet Jesus gave the definitive answer to this question - the completion of the Church’s mission to proclaim his salvation and lordship to all nations.

In Chapter 5 of  1 Thessalonians , Paul continues his discussion about the “ coming ” or ‘ parousia ’ of Jesus. But now, he addresses the question of its timing, as well as the different ways it will impact believers and nonbelievers. But rather than provide chronological information, he reminds the Thessalonians that the “ DAY OF THE LORD ” will come like a “ THIEF IN THE NIGHT .” No one except God knows its timing, therefore, believers must remain ever vigilant and prepared for its sudden and unexpected arrival.

The prophecy in the book of Joel sets the tone for Acts, including the signs and wonders that accompany the gospel  – Acts 2:17-21.  Jesus told the disciples to “ tarry in Jerusalem ”  UNTIL  they receive the Spirit, then to proclaim the “ kingdom of God ” in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, and the “ uttermost parts of the earth .” The book of  Acts  records how the early church carried out this mission under the power of the Spirit.