Works of the Second Advent

In the Beginning
Audio MP3

The Return of Christ is widely anticipated in the Christian world. However, relatively few realize that there are two stages to the return of Christ, and that the first of these has already commenced. This first stage is described in the Scriptures by the Greek word parousia, which means “presence.” The second stage is the revealing of Christ to the world through the judgments incident to Armageddon. That second stage is described in the Scriptures by the Greek word apokalupsis, which means “revealing.”

Many Christians, when referring to the return of Christ, are thinking about that second stage, which comes at the close of the present “harvest,” or ending period of the Gospel age (Matthew 13:39). But those awake to the prophecies and signs of the times have long appreciated that Christ has already returned to supervise a period of transition into the promised kingdom of Christ, and that this work has been progressing since our Lord’s return in 1874 (see Daniel 12:12).

The articles in this issue look at the various works God intends to accomplish as a result of the return of Christ. Some of these are underway. Others await the establishment in the earth of Christ’s Millennial kingdom. We begin with Completing the Church, which considers some New Testament parables about the gathering of the saints. It also includes some incisive observations about the organization of Bible Student ecclesias in the past and present. Our second article is The Restoration of Israel, a vital and visible preparation for the kingdom of Christ.

Judgment is part of the work of Christ’s return. In the articles Smiting the Nations and Three Angels we consider the judgment of nations and of nominal Christendom. The resurrection of the dead is an especially vital part of the second advent work. This is covered in the articles Alive and Remain and The General Resurrection.

The Ancient Worthies in the Millennial Kingdom looks at those who will serve mankind as the human representatives of the kingdom of Christ. Finally, Highway of Holiness discusses the much loved prophecy of Isaiah chapter 35.

Those favored with an understanding of the plans and purposes of our heavenly father can appreciate the wonderful works now being accomplished, knowing they lead to the blessed kingdom for which we all pray (Matthew 6:10).