What is parousia?

August 27th 2022 | 66355 views 

Parousia is a Greek word meaning “presence.” (See 2 Corinthians 10:10; Philippians 2:12.) Sadly, many Bible translators have injected their theological, doctrinal biases into their English translations and have used the word “coming” for parousia. However, Thayer’s Greek Lexicon of the Bible accurately gives the definition as “presence” or “arrival.” Additionally, Professor Robert Young in Young's Literal Translation of the Bible also preserves the meaning of parousia as presence. An example of the integrity of Young’s translation is in Matthew 24:3 (YLT), “And when he (Jesus) is sitting on the mount of the Olives, the disciples came near to him by himself, saying, ‘Tell us, when shall these be? and what is the sign of thy presence (parousia), and of the full end of the age?’”

In his answer, our Lord then goes into detail telling his disciples what events should transpire and were yet to happen so that they would know when Jesus had returned. Jesus said, “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.” (Matthew 24:42 NKJV) Remember, Jesus returns as a thief. 1 Thessalonians 5:2 (NKJV), “For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night.” A thief does not announce his presence!

Having a proper understanding of parousia can greatly alter the thought of the manner and object of the Second Advent of Christ. Our Lord was preparing the disciples to recognize that a length of time was going to intervene between his first and second advents, and that they should be watchful for all that would transpire.

This means that our Lord would be present, and there would be many who would not know it. How can this be? Wouldn’t every Christian recognize the Lord? No. Some Christians are either not watching and therefore, do know not what “time” it is, or they are looking for the wrong thing.

Jesus said, “A little while longer and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you will live also” John 14:19 (NKJV). How do we harmonize this with Revelation 1:7 (NKJV), “Behold, he is coming with clouds, and every eye will see him, even they who pierced him (see Zechariah 12:10). And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of him.

Revelation 1:7 is not talking about our literal eyes. It means the world will recognize Christ’s presence by the establishment of his righteous kingdom on earth (Zechariah 14:3). All will be resurrected (John 5:28-29). Additionally, “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain, for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea" (Isaiah 11:9 NKJV).  Mankind will be restored to perfect health (Isaiah 35:4-10). 

Eventually, every eye shall discern him and know that the Lord is present!

Additional Resources:
Download the free PDF: “I Will Come Again”

Christian Questions Podcast 
Episode #1185: “What Are the True Reasons for Jesus’ Return to Earth?”
Uncovering the remarkable and inspiring mission of Jesus’ return
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CQ Rewind Show Notes

Episode #1194: “Could Jesus Return Without You Knowing?”
Revealing the three scripturally progressive phases of Jesus’ return
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CQ Rewind Show Notes

For children, parents and Bible class teachers: 
CQ Kids video “Why did Jesus come to earth?”

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