Life is busy. Between work, family schedules, and daily responsibilities, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters—our faith in God and the hope of Jesus’ return. At Shepherd’s Gate Church, we help families stay grounded in Scripture while navigating the complexities of modern life.
This week in our Questioning God series, we explored one of the most pressing questions Christians ask: “God, when will you return?” Through Scripture, we learn that while no one knows the exact day or hour, there is guidance for living faithfully as we wait.
What the Bible Says About Jesus’ Return
Jesus addressed His disciples in Matthew 24, saying:
“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”
Rather than focusing on predicting the exact date, the Bible calls us to:
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Keep watch and be ready – live with faith and vigilance daily. Practice your faith even when it’s hard or counter cultural, and seek ways to be Christlike when the world around you is not living like Christ.
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Stand firm in faith – resist deception and false teachings. Stay vigilant in your knowledge of truth, study it, memorize it, keep it top of mind.
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Share the Gospel – nearly 44% of the world’s population has not yet heard the message of Jesus, according to the Joshua Project. Find ways to simply mention that you are “praying about” something, or to incorporate scripture and God’s promises into conversation. This can invite others to ask about why you pray, what it means to you, and begin a deeper dialogue about the gospel.
Jesus’ return is certain, but the timing is part of God’s perfect plan. Our mission is to live faithfully, share His love, and remain hopeful.
How Families Can Live Faithfully Today
Even with a packed schedule, you can cultivate a life of faith and hope:
1. Pray consistently – lift up your family, friends, and those who haven’t yet experienced God’s love.
2. Engage in your local church community – Shepherd’s Gate offers opportunities to grow in faith, serve others, and strengthen family bonds.
3. Celebrate God’s presence – Holy Communion is a reminder of God’s grace, forgiveness, and the joy we can experience now.
Living faithfully isn’t about fear—it’s about hope, preparation, and sharing God’s love.
Supporting Global Missions
Part of living faithfully includes participating in God’s mission. Shepherd’s Gate supports organizations like Lutheran Bible Translators and the Lutheran Heritage Foundation, which work to bring the gospel to unreached people groups worldwide. By praying, giving, or even serving on mission trips, you can help share Jesus’ love to those who haven’t heard it yet.
Why This Matters to You
In a world filled with distractions and uncertainty, the message is clear: trust God, live faithfully, and prepare your heart. Whether navigating family life, career, or community responsibilities, we can live with hope and excitement, knowing Jesus will return to gather His people.
At Shepherd’s Gate Church, we are committed to helping families grow in faith, engage in service, and live with joy while awaiting Christ’s return. If you want to hear more about Jesus’ Return, listen to the sermon here or watch it here. You can also read about last week’s sermon question, “Does God Require Me to Give Financially?” at this link.
FAQs About Jesus’ Return and Living Faithfully
1. When is Jesus coming back?
Only God the Father knows the exact time. We are called to live faithfully while we wait.
2. How can families prepare for Jesus’ return?
Pray together, study Scripture, model Christ-like love, and engage in church community.
3. What are the signs of the end times?
Scripture mentions wars, natural disasters, and moral decline as “birth pains.” These are reminders to stay faithful and alert.
4. How can I share my faith with those who haven’t heard the gospel?
Prayer, missionary support, and local outreach are key. Shepherd’s Gate partners with organizations serving unreached communities worldwide.
5. How do I live with hope while waiting for Jesus?
Focus on daily prayer, Scripture, and Holy Communion. Serve others and engage with your church family to cultivate joy and anticipation.
