The Three Advents of Jesus

We usually think of Advent as a time preparing us for the birth of Jesus—for that coming of Jesus as a newborn babe some 2000 years ago. But traditionally within the church Advent has had a deeper and broader meaning than just Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. In fact, we could… Continue reading

One Interpretation of the Parousia: Part Two

I am often asked if I believe in the Second Coming. My response is, “l believe in the parousia which is what the New Testament teaches.” Now that is not just a smart-alecky answer. As we shall see, what the New Testament teaches about the parousia (what most call “the… Continue reading

One Interpretation of the Parousia: Part One (John 1:1-4,9-14; Ephesians 1:3-10; Colossians 1:15-20) 

(Parousia is the Greek word used in the New Testament which is commonly understood as the Second Coming. Parousia simply means “presence” or “appearing.” It is one of the metaphors used in the Bible and theology to refer to the fulfillment of God’s purpose for creation. Like all metaphors, it… Continue reading