So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. Hebrews 9:28 (KJV)

“Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!” Acts 1:11 (New Living Translation, NLT)

Christ came the first time to offer Himself up to bear and take away our sins. Many missed His first coming, not recognizing it for what it was, and therefore they missed salvation. This should serve as a sobering warning to us today.

He came unto his own, and his own received him not. John 1:11 (KJV)

Jesus Christ will come in the clouds for His church, and those who are looking for and expecting His return will be caught up to be with Him. He will come on a rescue mission to pull us out so we escape the wrath to come, the seven year great tribulation. We will not be here but will be with Him in heaven during that time of horrific trouble. This will be the first phase of His second coming.

In the Old Testament, when the high priest went into the Holy of Holies once a year, the people waited outside, looking for His return. They awaited it with expectation, As we look to our High Priest, Jesus Christ to appear from heaven, He will come for us in the clouds.

Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:36 (New International Version, NIV)

This time He will not be coming to die for our sins, because that was a one-time sacrifice that need not be repeated. Instead, He will return for us to take us with Him to live with Him forever. Even so, come quickly Lord Jesus!