Has Jesus Returned?, Part 12

Apostolic Expectations and Prophecy Fulfillment

In a recent discussion on the anticipated return of Jesus Christ, Shawn McCraney delves into the expectations held by the apostles and early New Testament writers. He argues that these figures believed Jesus would return within forty years of His death and resurrection, a belief they taught and encouraged among early Christians. McCraney examines the writings of James, the writer of Hebrews, John, and Peter, highlighting their assertions that the return was imminent.

James, for instance, urged believers to be patient for the coming of the Lord, suggesting it was near. Similarly, the writer of Hebrews encouraged Jewish converts to hold fast to their faith as the day of the Lord approached. John, in his epistles, emphasized the presence of antichrists as a sign of the last times, urging believers to abide in Christ to be confident at His coming. Peter, too, spoke of the end of all things being at hand, indicating a belief that many of his readers would witness Christ’s return.

McCraney challenges the notion that the apostles were mistaken in their timing, suggesting instead that their teachings were accurate and fulfilled with the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. He also addresses the question of Satan’s binding, proposing that Christ’s victory on the cross bound Satan’s power over death, though he continues to tempt humanity.

This exploration raises important questions about the interpretation of biblical prophecy and the historical context of early Christian teachings, encouraging believers to consider the implications of these scriptural assertions on their faith today.