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In a world filled with uncertainty, there's one thing believers can be absolutely sure of: Jesus Christ is coming back. This truth forms the foundation of real encouragement for Christians as we navigate life's challenges.

What Does It Mean That Jesus Will Return "Like a Thief in the Night"?

In 1 Thessalonians 5:1-5, Paul continues his teaching about Christ's return, using powerful imagery to describe how unexpected this event will be. He compares it to "labor pains" and "a thief in the night" - both scenarios that come suddenly and completely.

While we don't know the exact timing (which can be frustrating for those of us who like control), God has already revealed the ending of the story. The return of Jesus isn't hidden from believers - we're called to live ready.

How Can We Find Encouragement in Christ's Return?

Real encouragement comes from several key truths about Christ's return:

1. Jesus is definitely coming back

"For you know quite well that the day of the Lord's return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night." (1 Thessalonians 5:2)

Often when reading this verse, we focus on the "unexpected" part. But notice the first phrase: "you know quite well." As believers, we aren't ignorant about Christ's return. Both the Old and New Testaments are filled with prophecies about His coming kingdom.

Just as expectant parents know their baby is coming even if they don't know the exact moment labor will begin, believers can live with the certainty of Christ's return. This knowledge allows us to live with confidence, purpose, and hope.

2. We're called to stay spiritually awake

"But you aren't in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won't be surprised when the day of the Lord comes like a thief." (1 Thessalonians 5:4)

Before knowing Christ, we lived in darkness - ignorant, confused, and without hope. But now, as children of light, we're spiritually awake. Our past mistakes no longer define who we are.

Think about it: when you parked your car today, you probably locked it, taking precautions against theft. Similarly, believers are called to stay alert and spiritually ready.

Practical ways to stay alert include:

 

  • Daily prayer and Scripture reading
  • Fellowship with other believers
  • Active service in God's kingdom

 

3. Our identity in Christ is our anchor

"For you are all children of the light and of the day. We don't belong to darkness and night." (1 Thessalonians 5:5)

This isn't just a nice thought - it's a declaration of who we are. Your identity in Christ forms the foundation for every aspect of encouragement in your life. When you know who you are, you walk, act, and respond differently to trials and temptations.

The world and Satan constantly try to drag us back into darkness, defining us by what we look like, what we consume, and who we associate with. But Scripture gives us powerful reminders of our true identity:

 

  • "Do not conform, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." (Romans 12:2)
  • "I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." (Galatians 2:20)
  • "Chosen, holy, blameless, adopted as God's children." (Ephesians 1:4-5)

 

Your identity in Christ gives you confidence, stability, and purpose. You're not defined by the darkness around you but by the light within you.

How Should We Live While Waiting for Christ's Return?

4. Live and love with purpose

Being children of the day means being active, intentional, and visible. It's not enough to avoid darkness - we're called to walk in the light, with Jesus as both Savior and Lord.

Living in the light means:

 

  • Loving people where they are
  • Serving others before yourself
  • Using your time, talents, and treasures to further God's kingdom

 

Hebrews 10:24 encourages us to "consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." If we're encouraged by God to be prepared for Christ's return, we should encourage others to do the same.

Practical steps include:

 

  • Looking for needs around you and meeting them
  • Sharing your faith with love, not judgment
  • Actively mentoring and discipling others

 

5. Hold onto eternal hope

Paul reminds us that our hope is eternal. In His first coming, Jesus arrived as a humble servant in a manger. In His second coming, He will arrive as the conquering King with the armies of heaven (Revelation 19:11-16).

For believers, this picture brings hope that every trial is temporary and will be overcome by our Savior. For those without a relationship with Christ, this should create urgency to know Him now.

First Thessalonians 5:9-10 assures us: "For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. Christ died for us so that whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever."

Life Application

The truth about Christ's return should transform how we live today. Here are some questions to consider:

 

  • Am I living as a child of light, or am I still clinging to darkness in certain areas of my life?

 

  • How am I staying spiritually alert? What practices help me remain watchful and ready?

 

  • In what ways does my identity in Christ shape my daily decisions and interactions?

 

  • Who can I encourage this week to live ready for Christ's return?

 

  • Does the promise of Christ's return fill me with hope or fear? Why?

 

 

This week, commit to living as though Christ could return at any moment. Let this truth fill you with courage - you are not in the dark. You are seen, chosen, and equipped to live awake in a world that's asleep. Jesus is coming, and that should change everything.