Throughout history, many have speculated about the return of Jesus Christ, often stirring up curiosity, hope, and even fear among believers. False messiahs have appeared, misleading people by claiming they are the fulfillment of biblical prophecies. To avoid being deceived, it is crucial to understand what the Bible says about the return of Christ and the signs that will accompany it. By keeping our eyes fixed on scripture, we can be prepared and discerning.

1. Jesus Himself Warned About False Messiahs

One of the clearest warnings Jesus gave during His earthly ministry was about false messiahs and prophets. In Matthew 24:24, He said, “For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” This serves as a strong reminder that deception will be widespread before His return, and it will be designed to confuse even the most faithful.

False messiahs may present themselves as charismatic figures, capable of extraordinary acts or spiritual insights. However, Jesus emphasized that we should not be swayed by appearances or miracles alone. These are counterfeit signs intended to lead people astray. Only by measuring these claims against the Word of God can we avoid being deceived.

2. The Nature of Jesus’ Return

The Bible is very specific about the manner of Jesus’ return, providing clear descriptions that leave no room for ambiguity. In Acts 1:11, when Jesus ascended to heaven, angels told the disciples, “This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” His return will be visible and unmistakable, not a hidden or secret event.

Matthew 24:27 describes His return as lightning that “comes from the east and is visible even in the west.” This image conveys that His coming will be sudden and apparent to all people across the world. No one will have to rely on rumors or obscure revelations to know that He has come; it will be a globally recognized event.

3. Accompanied by Cosmic Signs

The return of Jesus is also marked by a series of unmistakable cosmic events. In Matthew 24:29-30, Jesus said, “Immediately after the distress of those days, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken. Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven.” These celestial signs will precede His coming and will be evident to everyone.

Additionally, Revelation 1:7 says, “Behold, He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him.” Jesus’ return will be public and glorious, accompanied by heavenly hosts, not something that happens in secret or in a remote location. His arrival will be witnessed by all people, confirming His identity beyond any doubt.

4. The Trumpet Call

Paul’s letters also give us insight into what will happen at Jesus’ return. In 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Paul writes, “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.”

The sound of a trumpet will announce Christ’s return, and the resurrection of the dead will occur, followed by the gathering of all believers. This divine event will not be subtle; it will be heard and felt by everyone. The resurrection and gathering of believers is a key aspect of the second coming, and any claim to be the Messiah that lacks these elements is false.

5. The Purpose of His Return

Jesus’ return is not merely an event of spectacle; it has a divine purpose. He is coming to fulfill the final steps of God’s plan for redemption and judgment. Revelation 19:11-16 portrays Jesus returning as a conquering King, executing justice and righteousness. He will come to reign as the rightful Lord over the nations and bring an end to evil.

Moreover, 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8 describes His return as a moment when He will bring relief to His people and punishment to those who do not know God and who reject the gospel. This reminds us that His return will be a time of reward and judgment. Therefore, any message from a false messiah that does not align with this purpose is not from God.

6. Staying Vigilant in Faith

Given the rise of false messiahs and the potential for deception, how should we respond? The key is to stay grounded in scripture and prayer. Jesus warned His disciples in Matthew 24:42 to “keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” This means living in a state of readiness, with our hearts set on His promises rather than the distractions or false claims of the world.

False messiahs often prey on fear or desire for immediate answers, but the Bible encourages us to be patient and to trust in God’s timing. Hebrews 12:2 calls us to “fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” By focusing on Him and not the signs around us, we remain steadfast in truth.

Conclusion

The return of Jesus will be an unmistakable, cosmic event. It will not be confined to a small group of people, nor will it be orchestrated by any earthly figure. To avoid being misled by false messiahs, we must remember the biblical descriptions of His return: visible, global, accompanied by heavenly signs, and with the trumpet call of God.

In times of uncertainty, the best defense is staying rooted in the Word of God. Let us hold firm to the truths of scripture, so that we are not fooled by those who seek to deceive.