The Second Coming of Christ - Pastor Dave Klassen

Today’s focus is on the reality and significance of the second coming of Christ, and the events that will precede it. The teaching begins by affirming that, as believers, we already share in Christ’s victory. However, this victory does not exempt us from the trials and tribulations that will come upon the world before Christ’s return. Scripture, especially Matthew 24 and 25, makes it clear that the end times will be marked by increasing turmoil—wars, famines, earthquakes, and, most significantly, a period of great tribulation where faith in Christ will be severely tested.

Jesus warns that many will fall away during these times, their love growing cold due to the intensity of persecution and deception. False prophets and false Christs will arise, performing signs and wonders to mislead even the elect if possible. The call is to endurance: only those who remain faithful to the end will be saved. The gospel will be preached to all nations, and then the end will come, but not before believers face significant hardship.

A key point addressed is the widespread teaching of a “pre-tribulation rapture”—the idea that Christians will be taken out of the world before the tribulation begins. Careful examination of Scripture, however, reveals no clear support for this view. Instead, the biblical narrative points to believers enduring tribulation, with the rapture occurring after this period, just before God’s wrath is poured out on the unrepentant. The distinction is vital: tribulation is Satan’s attempt to destroy faith, while God’s wrath is His judgment on those who have rejected Him.

The teaching challenges the comfort-driven theology prevalent in much of the Western church, which promises escape from suffering. This is contrasted with the experience of persecuted believers worldwide, who understand tribulation as a present reality. The danger of false expectations is highlighted—if believers are not prepared for suffering, their faith may falter when hardship comes.

Ultimately, the encouragement is to trust in God’s faithfulness. Christ does not promise to spare us from all suffering, but He does promise to be with us, to strengthen us, and to carry us through whatever may come. The call is to steadfastness, courage, and a faith that endures to the end, knowing that our hope is secure in Christ.