Biblical explanation
Jesus said: “But of that day and hour knoweth no man” (). This prevents Christians from legitimately calculating a precise date. Jesus did, however, say: “this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come” (). The sequence is important. The gospel is proclaimed to the nations, and then the end comes. Jesus also compared His coming to the days of Noah (). The issue was not that people lacked a calendar date. The issue was that they were unprepared. Paul similarly describes the day of the Lord as coming unexpectedly upon those who are spiritually unprepared (). The Bible does not give the precise date. Therefore, anyone claiming to know the exact day of Christ's return is claiming knowledge that Jesus said human beings do not possess.
In brief
The Bible presents a visible, audible, and glorious second coming rather than a secret rapture. Jesus returns personally to resurrect the righteous, gather His people, and bring the long conflict with sin to its decisive close; readiness means faithful relationship and mission, not predicting a date.
Bible references
Go deeper into this topic Is Jesus Really Coming Back? Start the studyThis answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.