Charles Stanley
Movies can be so absorbing that we are easily “transported” until the final credits thrust us back to real life. Yet more amazing than any film is what Christians will experience at Jesus’ return.
The apostle Paul urges believers to become familiar with what will occur at that remarkable time (1 Thessalonians 4:13). Just imagine.
What we will hear: Jesus “will descend from heaven with a shout” (1 Thessalonians 4:16). Perhaps the Lord will say something similar to the words He spoke when raising Lazarus back to life: “Come forth!” (John 11:43). The voice of the archangel Michael—the leader of the angelic host—and a heavenly trumpet will also be heard, calling the saints to assemble.
What we will see: The Lord will come down from above (Acts 1:11), to be met in the air by newly resurrected deceased saints and then, a moment later, by “translated” living believers.
What we will feel: Though it’s impossible to know exactly what the experience will be like, we can expect it to be magnificent. We’ll be transformed physically: unlike our present body, our new form won’t be susceptible to pain, sin, sickness, or death. And in an instant, we will be brought into the presence of our heavenly Father, to remain with Him eternally.
It’s not hard to become disheartened by the materialism, selfishness, and hopelessness of this world. However, we can encourage one another - and ourselves - with a reminder about Jesus’ return (1 Thessalonians 4:18). So when hardships get you down, think about this exciting event in your future. The best is yet to be!
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