Expert: Scott Talbot - 8/21/2007

Question
Scott,

I have a theory on Christ's return, let me know what you think.  First my background is reformed hence this theory will not make sense if one is not familiar with the doctrine of Limited Atonement.   

If Christ paid for a limited amount of sins by suffering God's wrath for them when he was crucified, it would almost seem to indicate then that Christ *must* return when the last set of sins for which Christ paid for on the cross comes into existence.  Let me explain.  

We both agree that God is perfectly just.  If Christ came anytime before those last sins were committed then it would make God unjust seeing that Christ was judged and punished with God's wrath for sins that never came into existence.  

We both agree that the Bible says that Christians will still be on the earth when Christ comes.  This can be easily supported with scripture.       
If Christ comes after the last set of specific sins comes into fruition, most Christians living would be condemned seeing they would have sins that were not covered by the blood of Christ.  Either that or it would mean that each Christian living on the earth at that time would have to live a sin free life therafter.  Both of these scenarios I believe are impossibilities.    

Hence Christ *must* return when the last sin or set of sins for which He paid for on the cross comes into existence.        

What are your thoughts?

Thanks,

Alex

   





Thanks

Alex

Answer
Hi Alex,

It's an interesting theory, but I don't think it's accurate. If what you say is true, what would you say about those who come to faith in Christ during the Great Tribulation that follows the Rapture, or during the 1000 year reign of Christ on earth that follows the Great Tribulation? More will be saved, and these will still sin until they are in their final glorified state.

Isn't it better to think of it this way? God is not bound by time, as we are. God knows every sin long before it is ever committed. Regardless of when that takes place, it is all eternally present in His mind. So, while we may think in terms of time, God already has it worked out in His mind.

Scott

Scott