1Now as to the times and the epochs, brethren, you have no need of anything to be written to you. 2For you yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night.
Scripture does reveal some facts for end-time events, though not particular details, like the date of Christ’s return. Make no mistake, the study of eschatology (prophecies of the end times) is undoubtedly fascinating. Paul wrote previously that having some understanding of these things can be a source of comfort, especially when going through trials (1 Thess. 4:18).
The basic knowledge of Christ’s return is a theme of this letter, as we have seen Paul already writing earlier. But he has also taught them about it. So we conclude, following Paul’s example, that Christ’s return is something all believers should be taught. What he writes now is a reaffirmation of what they already know. Do we Christians not need constant reminders? Yes, we do! Just like we need the commemorative Lord’s Supper to remind us of our Savior’s death and resurrection continually, we need repeated retelling. That is because knowing that Christ is returning gives us great hope; in fact, He is our hope!
We don’t know “the times and the epochs.” This means every generation can hold to the hope that maybe theirs will be the one to see Christ’s return. However, as good as that might seem, remember that the dead in Christ will arise and see Him first (1 Thess. 4:14–15). So even if you and I are not alive when Christ comes back, we won’t miss a thing and will be none the worse for it. Death merely means our earthly waiting period comes to an end and ushers us into an advanced position for His return!
Paul’s point here, though, is that the return of the Lord will come quite suddenly, with the most appropriate comparison to a thief striking suddenly when you least expect it. There is quite an irony in this. Why spend a lot of time trying to develop elaborate schemes to pinpoint the Lord’s return, even down to a specific generation of believers, much less a particular date on the calendar, when the return date and time will be completely unexpected. The believers in Thessalonica knew that already, but like all of us, we forget and let our minds wander into what I call hypothetical theology or speculation. We do well to put that time into “grow[ing] in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” as Peter instructs us (2 Peter 3:18). Then Christ’s return, though sudden, won’t be unexpected. Our departure date is set, but it is known only to Him. When He comes, it will seem the most spiritually natural thing.
Lord, I can hardly wait for You to come back. Until then I live for You.
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