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In this episode, Mike explores the often-overlooked but deeply practical doctrine of the imminent return of Jesus Christ — the truth that He could come at any moment. Drawing from Jesus’ own words and the writings of the Apostle Paul, Mike shows how this teaching is not meant to stir fear or speculation, but to produce holiness, urgency, and hope in every follower of Christ.
He also references William E. Blackstone’s classic book Jesus Is Coming (1878), highlighting how Blackstone argued that neglecting this truth leads to spiritual complacency — a Christianity that becomes comfortable, self-focused, and detached from the urgency of mission.
Matthew 24:42–44 – “The Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Luke 12:35–40 – The parable of servants who stay awake for their master’s return.
1 Thessalonians 5:1–4 – “The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.”
Revelation 3:3; 16:15 – Jesus: “Behold, I am coming like a thief.”
Philippians 3:20–21 – “Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly wait for the Savior.”
— William E. Blackstone
Blackstone taught that belief in Christ’s imminent return is “the true incentive to a holy life.” When believers lose sight of this hope, they easily settle into comfort and self-interest rather than watchfulness and obedience.
Imminence shapes mindset — When Christ’s return feels near, it transforms how we live today.
Watchfulness over worldliness — A ready heart resists apathy and comfort.
Hope that purifies — The blessed hope is meant to make us holy, not anxious.
Urgency for mission — Knowing He could come at any time calls us to share the gospel and live purposefully.
Ask yourself: If Jesus were to come today, would He find me faithful?
Live, give, and serve as though He could appear at any moment — because He can.
Explore Storyline Missions:
Storyline Missions Website – Learn about our mission and vision.
By The Storyline Team5
88 ratings
In this episode, Mike explores the often-overlooked but deeply practical doctrine of the imminent return of Jesus Christ — the truth that He could come at any moment. Drawing from Jesus’ own words and the writings of the Apostle Paul, Mike shows how this teaching is not meant to stir fear or speculation, but to produce holiness, urgency, and hope in every follower of Christ.
He also references William E. Blackstone’s classic book Jesus Is Coming (1878), highlighting how Blackstone argued that neglecting this truth leads to spiritual complacency — a Christianity that becomes comfortable, self-focused, and detached from the urgency of mission.
Matthew 24:42–44 – “The Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Luke 12:35–40 – The parable of servants who stay awake for their master’s return.
1 Thessalonians 5:1–4 – “The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.”
Revelation 3:3; 16:15 – Jesus: “Behold, I am coming like a thief.”
Philippians 3:20–21 – “Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly wait for the Savior.”
— William E. Blackstone
Blackstone taught that belief in Christ’s imminent return is “the true incentive to a holy life.” When believers lose sight of this hope, they easily settle into comfort and self-interest rather than watchfulness and obedience.
Imminence shapes mindset — When Christ’s return feels near, it transforms how we live today.
Watchfulness over worldliness — A ready heart resists apathy and comfort.
Hope that purifies — The blessed hope is meant to make us holy, not anxious.
Urgency for mission — Knowing He could come at any time calls us to share the gospel and live purposefully.
Ask yourself: If Jesus were to come today, would He find me faithful?
Live, give, and serve as though He could appear at any moment — because He can.
Explore Storyline Missions:
Storyline Missions Website – Learn about our mission and vision.