The coming of Christ is drawing nearer with each passing day, and when it happens, it will surprise many. Scripture is very clear that this event will not be announced in advance, nor will it follow human expectations. The question that must be asked is deeply personal and unavoidable: are you prepared for that great day? Have you already washed your spiritual garments so that you may stand before the Lord without shame? This solemn warning is clearly presented by Jesus Himself in the Gospel of Luke, particularly in chapter 17, verse 34.
The return of Christ is one of the central doctrines of the Christian faith. From the Old Testament prophets to the apostles in the New Testament, Scripture consistently points forward to a future day when the Lord will return in glory. Yet, despite how often this truth is proclaimed, many live as though it will never happen. Jesus warned that His coming would catch the world unprepared, just as it did in the days of Noah and Lot.
In Luke 17, the disciples asked Jesus when the kingdom of heaven would come. They were eager to know the timing and the signs. Jesus responded by teaching them that the kingdom of God was already among them, present in His person and work. At the same time, He warned them that there would come a day when they would long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and they would not see it. With this teaching, the Lord emphasized the need to be prepared at all times.
Jesus made it clear that the coming of the Son of Man would not follow human logic or prediction. People would continue with their daily routines—working, eating, sleeping—completely unaware that history was about to reach its climax. This suddenness is precisely what makes preparedness so essential. The Christian life is not about waiting passively, but about living in constant readiness.
This event, as described in Scripture, will be so extraordinary that the entire world will be filled with astonishment. Confusion, fear, and disbelief will dominate the global reaction. Jesus warned that many false christs would arise, claiming that He has already come or that He can be found in secret places. Many will be deceived by these claims because they did not ground themselves in the truth of God’s Word. That is why Jesus repeatedly urges His followers to remain alert and discerning.
I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.
Luke 17:34
This statement from Jesus is both sobering and unsettling. It reveals that proximity does not guarantee salvation. Two people can share the same space, the same bed, the same routine, and yet have entirely different eternal destinies. One is taken to be with Christ, while the other is left behind. This separation will not be based on external appearances, social status, or religious affiliation, but on the condition of the heart.
Jesus clearly teaches that His coming will not come with a public warning. There will be no countdown, no final announcement broadcast to the world. Instead, it will happen suddenly, unexpectedly, and decisively. As we read previously, some will be taken into the kingdom of God, while others will remain in this world, facing confusion, judgment, and despair.
It is not difficult to imagine the chaos that will follow that day. News headlines will attempt to explain the unexplainable. Millions of people will be missing. Governments, scientists, and media outlets will scramble to provide explanations. Some will claim alien abductions, others will propose natural or cosmic phenomena, and many will invent theories even more extreme. Yet the truth that few will want to accept is the one clearly revealed in Scripture: Christ has taken His people.
This reality should not produce fear in the hearts of believers, but urgency. The return of Christ is a promise of hope for those who belong to Him. However, for those who have ignored His call, it will be a day of regret. Scripture repeatedly reminds us that now is the time of grace, now is the time of repentance, and now is the time to prepare.
So, dear friend, we are still in time to wash our spiritual garments. This expression symbolizes repentance, forgiveness, and a life made clean through faith in Jesus Christ. We cannot wash ourselves by our own efforts or good works. Only the blood of Christ cleanses us from sin. Preparation for His coming is not about perfection, but about sincere faith, obedience, and perseverance.
To be prepared means to live daily in communion with God, walking in holiness, loving truth, and rejecting sin. It means not postponing repentance or assuming that there will always be more time. Jesus warned that many would say, “Lord, Lord,” but would not enter the kingdom because they did not truly know Him. Preparation is not a momentary decision; it is a way of life.
The Lord is at the door. His coming is closer now than when we first believed. He continues to call through His Word, through His Spirit, and through the testimony of the church. Do not ignore His voice. Do not silence the conviction that God places in your heart. Every warning in Scripture is also an invitation to grace.
Those who respond to His call with faith and obedience will not fear that great day. Instead, they will rejoice. They will be among those who are lifted up with Christ in the clouds, sharing in His glory and entering into eternal life. This is the blessed hope of the church and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Let us therefore live with our eyes fixed on eternity. Let us remain vigilant, faithful, and prepared. The coming of Christ is certain, the timing is unknown, and the consequences are eternal. May we be found ready when He appears, clothed in righteousness, and filled with joy. God bless you.