Second Coming facts for kids
In Christianity, the Second Coming is a very important belief. It means that Jesus Christ will come back to Earth in the future. Christians believe Jesus will return to defeat bad forces, like the Antichrist, and lead his followers. This event is often seen as a time when Jesus will set up his kingdom on Earth for 1,000 years.
The idea of the Second Coming is sometimes confused with the Rapture. However, these are two different events in Christian belief. The Second Coming focuses on Jesus's return to Earth to rule, while the Rapture is often described as believers being taken up to meet Jesus before or during a time of trouble.
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What Is the Second Coming?
The Second Coming is the belief that Jesus, who Christians believe died and came back to life, will return to Earth. This return is expected to be a big, visible event. Many parts of the Bible, especially the New Testament, talk about Jesus coming back.
Why Do Christians Believe in It?
Christians believe in the Second Coming because it is written in their holy book, the Bible. Verses in the Gospels and other books describe Jesus promising to return. For example, in the Book of Acts, after Jesus goes up to heaven, angels tell his followers that he will come back in the same way.
When Will It Happen?
No one knows the exact date or time of the Second Coming. The Bible says that only God knows when Jesus will return. Jesus himself said that people should always be ready, as his return will be sudden and unexpected. This means Christians are encouraged to live their lives in a way that prepares them for his return at any moment.
What Happens During the Second Coming?
Many Christians believe that when Jesus returns, he will defeat all evil. This includes a figure called the Antichrist, who is believed to be a powerful enemy of God. After defeating evil, Jesus is expected to establish his rule on Earth. This period is often called the "Millennium," which means 1,000 years. During this time, there is believed to be peace and justice on Earth.
The Final Judgment
Another important part of the Second Coming is the idea of a final judgment. Christians believe that when Jesus returns, everyone who has ever lived will be judged. This judgment will decide if people go to heaven or hell. It is a time when all wrongs will be made right, and God's justice will be complete.
Related Beliefs
The Second Coming is a central part of Christian eschatology. This is the study of "last things" or the end times. It includes other beliefs like the Resurrection of the dead and the new heaven and new earth. Different Christian groups have slightly different ideas about how these events will happen.
Images for kids
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Greek icon of the Second Coming, c. 1700
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The Last Judgment by Michelangelo (1541) in the Sistine Chapel, Rome.
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The Second Coming of Christ stained glass window at St. Matthew's German Evangelical Lutheran Church in Charleston, South Carolina, United States.
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The Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh
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