Unveiling the Truth: The Jehovah's Witnesses and Scriptural Interpretation

The question of whether Jehovah's Witnesses offer biblical scriptures to support their belief that Jesus made an invisible return before his visible return, or if they expect that return to be invisible, is a crucial aspect of their teachings. Matthew 24, a key scripture in the discussion, provides a clear indication of how these matters are addressed. In this passage, Jesus offers insight into the signs of His imminent return, providing a rich context for understanding the faith.

Matthew 24 and the Return of Jesus

Matthew 24 is a central scripture for those discussing the second coming of Jesus. The disciples approached Jesus privately, asking about the timing and signs of His presence and the end of the age. Jesus responded with a series of prophecies that have profound implications for modern believers:

Signs Leading to the End Times: Jesus lists several ominous signs including the darkening of the sun and moon, a great earthquake, and false messiahs. These events are described as harbingers of the end times. Deception and False Prophecies: Jesus warns that false prophets will perform great signs and wonders to deceive the elect. He emphasizes the importance of not believing those claiming to know the exact location of His return. The Timing of His Return: Jesus clearly states that He will return at the end of the tribulation period, ensuring that His coming will be unexpected and visible. This is in contrast to the idea of a secret return for a selected group.

Understanding the Spiritual Realm

According to the teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses, Jesus and the spiritual beings that rule with Him are spiritual entities. As humans, our physical senses are limited to the material world, making it impossible for us to perceive the spiritual realm. However, if these spiritual beings desire to communicate their presence, they can do so in ways that are accessible to us. This can include demonstrations of miraculous power or the fulfillment of prophetic signs.

Scriptural Warnings and the Return of Jesus

The Bible is unequivocal in its warnings against those who claim to know the exact location of Jesus' return. For example, Matthew 24:22-28 further emphasizes the importance of not believing false prophecies:

ldquo;“If those days were not cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect, those days will be cut short. Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this: the day will come like a thief, and it is coming, and you do not know on what day. But know this: the day will come like a thief. Let your loins be girded about, and your lights be burning. And you yourselves be like men who are waiting for their master, when he returns from the bridegroom, so that when he comes and knocks, they may immediately open to him. Blessed is that slave whom his master finds awake and watching. Truly, I say to you, he will clothe him as a servant and will put him in charge of all that he has. But if that evil slave says in his heart, lsquo;My master will not come for a long timersquo;, and he begins to beat his fellow slaves and eat and drink with drunkards, the master of that slave will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of, and he will cut him in pieces and assign him a portion with the unbelievers. But the faithful, righteous slave, who knew the will of his master and did it, will be like a wise and faithful steward, whom his master put in charge of his household, to give them their share of food at the proper time. Blessed is that slave whom his master finds doing so when he comes.rdquo; - Matthew 24:42-46.

These verses serve as a powerful reminder to be vigilant and not to be misled by false claims of Jesus' imminent return. The true signs of His return are not hidden or secret; they are clearly laid out in the scriptures.

Conclusion

Contrary to the beliefs of some, the Bible does not support the idea of Jesus making an invisible return before His visible return. Instead, it presents a clear and unambiguous narrative that emphasizes the importance of patience and preparedness. By examining the key scriptures and understanding the spiritual realm, those seeking to understand the second coming of Jesus can find comfort and guidance in the wisdom of these ancient texts.

Key Points

The scriptures in Matthew 24 provide a detailed and unambiguous perspective on the signs of the end times. The faithful are warned against believing false messiahs and those who claim to know the exact location of Jesus' return. Jesus and His spiritual beings can make their presence known in ways that are accessible to humans. The Bible emphasizes the importance of being prepared and vigilant for the return of Jesus.

By adhering to these key points, believers can navigate the complexities of eschatology with confidence and clarity.