Is Jesus Coming Back on April 4th? What the Bible Says
Many people are curious about when Jesus will return, and some even ask, “Is Jesus coming back on April 4th?” While this date might be circulating in predictions or rumors, the Bible makes it clear that no one can know the exact time of Jesus’ return. Instead of focusing on a specific day, Christians are encouraged to be spiritually prepared and live with hope every day.
In this article, we’ll explore what the Bible really says about Jesus’ return and why setting exact dates can lead to confusion or disappointment.
Biblical Teachings on the Return of Jesus
The return of Jesus, also known as the Second Coming, is one of the most significant events in Christian theology. It’s described in several passages throughout the New Testament, emphasizing that Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead, establish His eternal kingdom, and bring salvation to His people. However, while the return of Christ is a core belief, the Bible also makes it clear that the exact time of His return is unknown.
The Uncertainty of the Timing
One of the most direct statements about the uncertainty of Jesus’ return is found in Matthew 24:36, where Jesus Himself says, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”
This verse is crucial in understanding that any attempt to predict the specific date of Jesus’ return is contrary to biblical teachings. According to this passage, only God the Father knows when Jesus will come back, which makes it impossible for anyone on earth to make an accurate prediction.
Be Watchful and Prepared
While the exact time of the Second Coming is unknown, the Bible emphasizes the importance of being watchful and prepared. Jesus repeatedly urges His followers to be vigilant and live in a state of readiness.
In Matthew 24:42, He says, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” This instruction is not meant to spark fear, but rather to encourage Christians to live faithfully every day, so they are ready whenever that day arrives.
The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 illustrates this teaching. In the parable, ten bridesmaids are waiting for the bridegroom (symbolizing Jesus). While five of them are prepared with enough oil for their lamps, the other five are not, and they miss the bridegroom’s arrival. The message of the parable is clear: only those who are ready will be part of the celebration when Jesus returns.
The Signs of His Coming
Although the Bible teaches that no one knows the exact day of Jesus’ return, it also speaks of certain signs that will precede the Second Coming. In Matthew 24, Jesus describes various events that will occur, such as wars, famines, earthquakes, and false prophets leading people astray.
However, He also warns in Matthew 24:8 that these signs are “the beginning of birth pains,” indicating that while they may signal the approach of the end, they do not provide a specific timeline.
Jesus also mentions the gospel being preached to all nations as a key event before His return (Matthew 24:14). While these signs offer believers clues, they do not allow anyone to pinpoint a precise date for the Second Coming, emphasizing the unpredictability of the event.
The Purpose of Jesus’ Return
The Bible outlines the main purposes of Jesus’ return. First, He will return as a judge, as described in passages like Matthew 25:31-46, where Jesus speaks of separating people like a shepherd separates sheep from goats, determining their eternal fate.
Secondly, Jesus’ return will bring the final fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation. As mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, believers will be caught up to meet Him and will live with Him forever. This promise of eternal life gives Christians hope and comfort.
Why April 4th?
The date April 4th, like other specific predictions about Jesus’ return, likely stems from speculative interpretations of biblical prophecies, numerology, or personal visions. However, the Bible does not give any indication that this date—or any other specific day—holds significance for the Second Coming of Christ.
Throughout history, people have tried to assign particular dates to Jesus’ return based on world events, symbolic numbers, or astrological signs, but these attempts consistently go against biblical teachings. The Bible clearly states in Matthew 24:36 that no one knows the day or hour of Jesus’ return, including predictions like April 4th. Therefore, such claims should be approached with caution and a reliance on scripture rather than speculation.
In the age of social media, predictions can spread rapidly, drawing attention to specific dates like April 4th, but these should be met with discernment. The Bible warns believers to stay spiritually prepared without relying on speculative date-setting, which often leads to confusion and disappointment.
The Danger of Predicting Dates
While the anticipation of Jesus’ return is central to the Christian faith, trying to pinpoint the exact date, like April 4th, poses several spiritual and practical dangers. The Bible warns against making such predictions, and history has shown how setting specific dates can lead to disappointment, spiritual harm, and a distorted focus on Christian living.
Biblical Warnings Against Date-Setting
The Bible explicitly warns against predicting the time of Jesus’ return. As mentioned earlier, Matthew 24:36 clearly states that “no one knows the day or hour” of Jesus’ return. This verse underscores that not even the angels or Jesus Himself know the exact timing—only God the Father does. By attempting to predict specific dates, individuals ignore these biblical warnings and risk leading others astray.
In Acts 1:7, when the disciples asked Jesus about the timing of His return, He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by His own authority.” This further emphasizes that the knowledge of the end times is not something humanity can uncover, and believers should focus on living out their faith rather than fixating on predicting Jesus’ return.
Historical Examples of Failed Predictions
Throughout history, there have been numerous attempts to predict the exact date of Jesus’ return. Notable examples include the Millerite movement in the 1840s, when preacher William Miller predicted that Jesus would return in 1844. When this failed to happen, it led to what is now referred to as the “Great Disappointment,” with many followers disillusioned and heartbroken. This event is just one of many where failed predictions caused confusion and deep spiritual harm.
In more recent history, specific dates like May 21, 2011, were widely circulated as the day of the Second Coming by certain Christian leaders, causing public fear and excitement. When that date passed without incident, many people felt betrayed, leading to a loss of faith or skepticism about Christianity. Setting dates, including one as specific as April 4th, can mislead believers, create false expectations, and result in unnecessary anxiety and confusion.
The Spiritual Consequences of Date-Setting
Predicting specific dates for Jesus’ return can cause believers to shift their focus from living a faithful Christian life to becoming preoccupied with end-times speculation. This shift can be spiritually dangerous. Instead of growing in faith, love, and service to others, Christians might spend time and energy trying to decipher signs or prepare for a particular day.
Additionally, when these predictions inevitably fail, they can lead to spiritual disillusionment. Believers who have fully invested in a date like April 4th may feel lost, questioning their faith, the teachings they’ve followed, and even God Himself. This can lead to a crisis of faith, which is why the Bible advises against this kind of speculative behavior.
What the Bible Says About Being Prepared
The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of being prepared for Jesus’ return, but it does so in a way that focuses on spiritual readiness rather than fixating on specific dates. This message is central to Christian teachings on the Second Coming, encouraging believers to live lives of faith, love, and obedience to God’s commands at all times.
Being Prepared: A Call to Active Faith
In several of His teachings, Jesus highlights the importance of readiness in the face of His return, not through frantic preparation for a specific date like April 4th, but through a continual life of faith. A central passage on this is found in Matthew 24:42, where Jesus says, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” This verse underscores the idea that believers should always be spiritually alert, living in a way that reflects their faith in Jesus and their anticipation of His return.
This preparedness is not about storing up physical provisions or anticipating a specific moment. Instead, it’s about aligning one’s life with Christ’s teachings, growing in relationship with God, and living a life that reflects Christian values—loving others, forgiving, serving the needy, and sharing the gospel.
Parables on Preparedness: The Wise and Faithful Servant
Jesus often used parables to teach His followers about the importance of being prepared for His return. One such parable is the Parable of the Wise and Faithful Servant in Matthew 24:45-51. In this story, Jesus compares His followers to servants left in charge of their master’s household while the master is away.
A wise servant faithfully tends to the responsibilities entrusted to him, knowing that the master could return at any moment. Conversely, the foolish servant abuses his power, thinking the master will be delayed.
The message is clear: Christians should remain faithful in their daily lives, even when it seems like the return of Christ is far off. Jesus’ return will be sudden and unexpected, but those who live in obedience, regardless of the timing, will be rewarded.
The Parable of the Ten Virgins
Another famous parable on preparedness is the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13). In this parable, ten bridesmaids wait for the arrival of the bridegroom. Five are wise and have extra oil for their lamps, while the other five are unprepared and run out of oil.
When the bridegroom finally arrives, only the prepared bridesmaids are able to join the celebration. This parable emphasizes that spiritual readiness isn’t something that can be achieved at the last minute. It’s a state of ongoing preparedness, cultivated over time through faithful living.
The Importance of Living with Purpose
Another biblical passage that speaks to living in a constant state of readiness is found in 1 Peter 4:7, which says, “The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.” This verse encourages believers to live with purpose, continually focusing on their relationship with God, prayer, and maintaining a life of virtue. The unpredictability of Jesus’ return serves as a reminder to not delay in nurturing faith and practicing Christian values in daily life.
How to Respond to Predictions
Throughout history, predictions about the return of Jesus, including claims like “Jesus is coming back on April 4th,” have sparked debate and curiosity. However, the Bible offers clear guidance on how Christians should respond to such predictions, emphasizing trust in God’s timing over human speculation. Here are some practical ways to navigate and respond to these predictions while staying true to biblical teachings.
1. Trust in God’s Word Over Human Predictions
When responding to any prediction about the date of Jesus’ return, it’s important to first and foremost trust the Bible’s teachings. As stated in Matthew 24:36, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” This verse alone provides a firm foundation for rejecting any date predictions, including April 4th, as it emphasizes that no human being has the knowledge or authority to predict the timing of Christ’s return.
The Bible calls believers to rely on God’s Word, which clearly teaches that Jesus will return when it is God’s appointed time, and that time is known only to God. Instead of entertaining predictions, Christians are encouraged to stay focused on what the Bible teaches about living in faith and readiness for Jesus’ return.
2. Approach Predictions with Discernment and Caution
Many individuals who predict specific dates for the return of Christ may do so with sincere intentions, but the Bible warns believers to exercise discernment. 1 John 4:1 says, “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” This verse urges Christians to carefully evaluate claims and teachings by comparing them to the Bible.
If someone claims that Jesus will return on April 4th, Christians should critically assess whether the prediction aligns with scripture. Historically, many date-setters have been proven wrong, and their failed predictions can lead to disappointment, disillusionment, and even a weakening of faith for those who believed in them. It’s crucial to remain grounded in the biblical truth that no one can predict the date of Jesus’ return.
3. Focus on Spiritual Readiness, Not Speculation
Rather than focusing on specific predictions, the Bible encourages believers to prioritize spiritual readiness. Luke 12:40 says, “You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” This verse reminds Christians that the return of Jesus is certain, but unpredictable. The focus should be on living a life of faith, love, and obedience to God, rather than speculating about dates and signs.
Instead of engaging with or worrying about predictions like April 4th, Christians should redirect their energy toward personal growth in their faith. By cultivating habits of prayer, scripture reading, service to others, and living out Christian values, believers can be ready for Jesus’ return whenever it happens, without relying on a specific date.
4. Be Kind and Respectful in Dialogue
It’s important to approach conversations about predictions with kindness and respect. Some people who believe in specific predictions might be genuinely concerned about their faith and future. Rather than dismissing their beliefs outright, engage in respectful dialogue that encourages reflection on scripture.
Use biblical references, such as Matthew 24:36, to gently guide discussions and highlight why it’s important to trust God’s timing instead of focusing on predictions. By engaging in a loving and respectful manner, you can help others gain a deeper understanding of what the Bible teaches about Jesus’ return and how to live in anticipation of it.
5. Rely on the Peace of God’s Promises
Finally, Christians should respond to predictions by finding peace in God’s promises. The return of Jesus is a source of hope and joy, not fear or anxiety. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers to trust in God’s peace, saying, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
