Why Hasn’t Jesus Returned Yet? A Thought-Provoking Reflection
The question of why Jesus hasn’t returned yet is one that has perplexed Christians for centuries. It is a question that has caused both curiosity and concern, especially in times of hardship or confusion. Many wonder, especially during moments of suffering or when the world seems to spiral further into chaos, why hasn’t Christ returned to restore peace, justice, and make all things new?
Understanding the Delay in Jesus’ Return:
In the Bible, we are given several clues that can help us understand why Jesus’ return has not yet occurred. While we do not have a precise answer, these scriptures guide us toward understanding God’s divine plan and the purpose behind the wait.
1. God’s Timing is Perfect (2 Peter 3:8-9)
The first and perhaps most comforting explanation is that God’s timing is perfect, and His perspective is not limited like ours. In 2 Peter 3:8-9, it says:
“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
Key Takeaway:
God is not delaying because He is indifferent or inactive. He is patiently waiting for more people to come to repentance. The delay in Christ’s return is a demonstration of His mercy, offering more time for individuals to turn to Him and accept His salvation.
2. The Great Commission Must Be Fulfilled (Matthew 28:19-20)
Another reason why Jesus hasn’t returned yet could be related to the Great Commission that He gave to His followers. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus instructs His disciples:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
Key Takeaway:
The command to make disciples of all nations is still being carried out. Many areas of the world have yet to hear the gospel message, and the Church is still in the process of fulfilling this mission. It’s possible that Jesus’ return is delayed to allow for the completion of this task.
3. God Desires All to Be Saved (1 Timothy 2:3-4)
In 1 Timothy 2:3-4, we read:
“This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”
Key Takeaway:
God’s desire is for all people to be saved, and He is waiting for every opportunity for more individuals to hear and respond to the gospel. His patience provides more chances for people to come to faith in Jesus Christ.
4. We Must Be Ready (Matthew 24:36-44)
Jesus Himself taught about the need for readiness in His return. In Matthew 24:36-44, He states:
“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.”
Key Takeaway:
The uncertainty of when Christ will return is intentional. We are called to remain vigilant and ready, living in anticipation and obedience. Jesus’ return will be like a thief in the night—unexpected and sudden. The delay serves as a reminder for believers to stay faithful and prepared.
5. God’s Plan is Unfolding (Revelation 21:1-5)
In Revelation 21:1-5, John gives a glimpse of the new heaven and new earth:
“Then I saw ‘a new heaven and a new earth,’ for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.”
Key Takeaway:
God has a divine plan for history, and He is working out His purposes even when we cannot see or understand them. The return of Jesus will usher in a new era of peace, justice, and righteousness. The delay is not out of neglect but is part of God’s perfect timing to bring about this glorious culmination.
6. The Gospel Must Be Preached to the Ends of the Earth (Matthew 24:14)
Jesus’ return is connected to the completion of the task of spreading the gospel. In Matthew 24:14, Jesus says:
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
Key Takeaway:
The gospel must reach every corner of the world before Christ’s return. While the mission field is vast, with many regions yet to hear about Jesus, God’s plan involves the global spread of the gospel. This delay is providing an opportunity for the church to complete the mission.
7. Our Faith is Tested (James 5:7-8)
The delay also serves as a time for testing and strengthening of faith. James 5:7-8 tells us:
“Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.”
Key Takeaway:
The delay in Jesus’ return allows believers’ faith to be tested and matured. Just as a farmer waits for the harvest, we must patiently endure trials and remain steadfast in our faith. This waiting period is an opportunity for spiritual growth and perseverance.
Conclusion:
The question of why Jesus hasn’t returned yet is one that can only be fully understood through faith in God’s perfect will and timing. The Bible teaches us that His return is delayed for the sake of mercy, for the fulfillment of the Great Commission, and to allow people to come to faith in Christ.
As we wait for Jesus’ return, we are called to live with expectation, faithfulness, and readiness. We are to trust that God is working out His divine plan, and while we may not understand the timing, we can be certain that He is faithful to His promises.
In the meantime, let us continue to share the gospel, grow in our faith, and look forward to the day when Christ will return to make all things new. Even in the delay, God’s love and mercy are evident, and His plan is unfolding exactly as He intended.
