The return of the Son of Man, a title frequently used by Jesus Christ to refer to Himself, is a central theme in Christian eschatology. This event is anticipated as the second coming of Jesus, where He will return in glory to judge the living and the dead, establish His kingdom, and fulfill the promises of God. The concept is rooted in both Old and New Testament scriptures, with significant emphasis in the Gospels and the Book of Revelation.

Old Testament Foundations

The title "Son of Man" finds its origins in the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Daniel. Daniel 7:13-14 describes a vision where "one like a son of man" comes with the clouds of heaven and is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. This passage is often interpreted as a messianic prophecy, foretelling the coming of a divine figure who will establish an everlasting kingdom.

New Testament Revelation

In the New Testament, Jesus frequently refers to Himself as the "Son of Man," emphasizing both His humanity and His divine authority. The Gospels record numerous instances where Jesus speaks of His return. In Matthew 24:30-31 , Jesus declares, "At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and all the tribes of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. And He will send out His angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other."

Characteristics of the Return

The return of the Son of Man is described as a visible, glorious, and triumphant event. It will be sudden and unexpected, as emphasized in Matthew 24:44 : "For this reason, you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour you do not expect." The imagery of coming with the clouds signifies divine majesty and authority, echoing the vision in Daniel.

Judgment and Restoration

The return of the Son of Man is closely associated with the final judgment. In Matthew 25:31-32 , Jesus explains, "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats." This passage highlights the role of the Son of Man as the righteous judge who will reward the faithful and punish the wicked.

The Kingdom of God

The return of the Son of Man also signifies the full establishment of the Kingdom of God. Revelation 11:15 proclaims, "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever." This kingdom is characterized by peace, justice, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Preparation and Watchfulness

Believers are exhorted to live in a state of readiness and anticipation for the return of the Son of Man. In Luke 21:34-36 , Jesus warns, "Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man."

The return of the Son of Man is a pivotal event in Christian theology, encapsulating the hope of redemption, the fulfillment of divine justice, and the ultimate realization of God's kingdom on earth.