What do Seventh Day Adventists believe about the second coming?
Seventh Day Adventists, a Protestant Christian denomination, hold a unique and profound belief about the second coming of Jesus Christ. This belief is central to their faith and shapes their lifestyle, worship, and eschatological expectations. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of what Seventh Day Adventists believe about the second coming.
1. The Timing of the Second Coming
Seventh Day Adventists believe that the second coming of Jesus Christ will occur on the seventh day of the week, which is Saturday according to the biblical calendar. They believe that Jesus will return to earth on the literal seventh day of the week, as it is written in the Bible. This belief is rooted in their understanding of the Sabbath, which they observe every Saturday as a day of rest and worship.
2. The Nature of the Second Coming
Seventh Day Adventists believe that the second coming of Jesus Christ will be a literal, visible, and personal event. They expect Jesus to descend from heaven in the clouds, accompanied by His angels, to establish His eternal kingdom on earth. This event will mark the end of the world as we know it and the beginning of a new era of peace and righteousness.
3. The Role of the Sabbath
The Sabbath is a significant aspect of Seventh Day Adventists’ belief in the second coming. They believe that the Sabbath is a divine commandment given by God to humanity, and its observance is a sign of faith and obedience. By keeping the Sabbath, they believe they are preparing themselves for the second coming of Jesus Christ and the establishment of His kingdom.
4. The Significance of Prophecy
Seventh Day Adventists place great emphasis on biblical prophecy, particularly those related to the second coming of Jesus Christ. They believe that the prophecies in the Bible, such as those found in the book of Daniel and the book of Revelation, provide insight into the timing, nature, and purpose of the second coming.
5. The Lifestyle of Seventh Day Adventists
The belief in the second coming influences the lifestyle of Seventh Day Adventists. They strive to live a life of purity, integrity, and service to God. They avoid practices such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and engaging in other harmful habits. They also emphasize the importance of education, health, and social justice, as they believe these are essential components of preparing for the second coming.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Seventh Day Adventists have a distinct and compelling belief about the second coming of Jesus Christ. Their faith is centered on the literal, visible, and personal return of Jesus on the seventh day of the week, accompanied by the establishment of His eternal kingdom. This belief shapes their lifestyle, worship, and eschatological expectations, making it a cornerstone of their faith.
