THE next expectation of the Christian in this perverse world should be the new dispensation of the Millennial Kingdom of the Lord. In other words, every true disciple should have a single-minded devotion to the return of the Lord. As a child waits for Christmas with single-minded tenacity, wanting to be good and to be rewarded for it, so must a Christian wait for Christ’.s Parousia. And as Christmas seems such a long way away each year, but it was certain and wonderful, so should be the hope of the Christian, which is a certain hope of a glorious reward. Several biblical passages confirm to us that this hope is not misplaced. We may look at 11 main passages, which can be grouped under four headings:

i. Resurrection and blessing 1 Cor 15:23, 1 Thess 4:15,
(1 Corinthians 15:23 NKJV) But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming.

(1 Thessalonians 4:15 NKJV) For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep.
ii. Holiness IChristian character 1 Thess 2:19,3:13,5:23, 1 John 2:28

(1 Thessalonians 2:19 NKJV) For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?

(1 Thessalonians 3:13 NKJV) so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.

(1 Thessalonians 5:23 NKJV) Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.“

(1 John 2:28 NKJV) And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.